Students embrace new SAT format, manage resources

SAT CHANGES | Interview With College Board Head

- Simple Vishwakarma

With significant changes to the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT), including a switch to an online format and a reduced duration, how students adapt to these modifications and manage their time effectively to achieve high scores. In the second part of the interview with The Free Press Journal, Meenakshi Kachroo Chatta, the Senior Director and Regional Head of the College Board for India, South & Central Asia, shared insights into the resources available for students, particularly those with disabilities, ensuring fair access to testing and opportunities in India.

FPJ: Since many US universities, like Harvard, reinstated the SAT requirement after the pandemic, have you noticed an increase in student applications?

Meenakshi: Yes, we have gone back to the pre-pandemic level worldwide now. However, I would also say that when the pandemic was going on and when the test-optional and test-blind scenarios had started, we had done a survey and in that survey, almost 83% of the students had mentioned that they still wanted to send the SAT scores to universities, even if they were test-optional. Because that sets them apart from the rest of the students. And especially Indian students, we all know that when you get the results of CBSE with 80% of the classes having the same 95% or 92%. Universities would only give you the criteria of their acceptance, but as a parent and as a student, you have to see yourself what increases your chances of a scholarship. And if giving a test increases that, then why not? So this is what we always advise to the students.

FPJ: With recent SAT changes like the switch to online and shorter duration, how are students adapting?