Preparing for the SAT is an important step in the college admission process. But what many students do not know is that a good score can also help you in landing good scholarships. These scholarships can aid you in college fees and ease the financial pressure on students.
In this blog, we will understand how SAT scores are used for getting scholarships.
Understanding Scholarships-
Need-Based vs Merit-Based- Need-based scholarships are for students with financial problems, as determined by the FAFSA or CSS profile. On the other hand, merit-based scholarships are solely based on students’ academic background and extracurricular excellence. The SAT scores are a deciding factor for merit-based scholarships.
Automatic Scholarships Based on SAT Scores – Some universities offer scholarships automatically based on SAT scores. These scholarships do not require a separate application and shortlist the students based on their SAT scores. For example, Texas Tech University offers scholarships starting at $8000 per year based on SAT scores.
Private Scholarships That Consider SAT Scores- Numerous private companies, non-profits, and foundations also offer scholarships to students. Some offer scholarships directly based on SAT scores, while others use the SAT scores to compare your candidacy. Websites like Fastweb and scholarship.com allow you to filter scholarships.
Competitive Scholarships- Competitive merit scholarships are offered by many universities and external organizations. You have to apply for these scholarships with a separate application. Also, different essays and recommendation letters are expected.
What are the different scholarships one can aim for?
1. Merit-based Scholarships- Several colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships awarded to students with strong academic records. Along with academic record, SAT scores play a significant role in landing these scholarships. Some institutions have clear SAT score cutoffs, which means that if your score is around or higher than the cutoff, you are automatically eligible for the scholarship.
For example, a student scoring 1400 or above may receive $5000 to $10000 per year at some universities.
2. National and State Scholarship Programs- The National Merit Scholarship uses SAT scores to qualify students for their scholarships. Similarly, State scholarships are based on the basis of SAT scores. With high SAT scores, you can be eligible for these scholarships
3. Private Scholarships and Standardized Tests-Many private organizations and foundations also offer scholarship assistance to students. The selection processes can vary slightly depending on their policies, but SAT scores are used by many of these organizations to determine students’ academic eligibility.
Balancing your profile-
With better SAT scores come more scholarship opportunities- A good score on the SAT opens up opportunities for a greater number of colleges, many of which have larger scholarship options and more generous financial aid for academically strong students. One can increase the chances of getting scholarships with numerous college options with high SAT scores.
SAT Scores may offset a Lower GPA- High SAT scores with an impressive college application can compensate for your low GPA in high school.
Conclusion-
Your SAT score is more than just a college requirement; it is also a valuable tool to land scholarships. These scholarships are designed to reduce student debt and make your dream college more accessible.
How The Princeton Review Can Help You Get Scholarships
The Princeton Review can help you maximize your performance and secure scholarships to aid your education.
1. One-on-one tutoring- One-on-one tutoring offers you personalised study plans that aid in achieving high scores.
2. Full-length practice tests- Practice tests help you track your preparation and provide you with experience similar to the actual SAT Test.
3. Expert-led instructions- Experienced experts provide the best strategies personalised to your abilities and potential.
4. Personalised learning plans- Personalised learning plans target your weaknesses and help you elevate your SAT scores.
5. Score Improvement Assurance- The Princeton Review assures score improvement. In case of low improvement, you get to repeat the course without any charges.
6. Scholarship search tool- Includes the scholarship search tools in the package, which help you compare and assess your eligibility for scholarships at different institutions.