Redefining Success: Why Test Scores Aren’t Everything

It’s that time of year when students are getting ISEE and SSAT standardized test score results back, and parents are in a panic! For some students this is the first time they’ve taken the test and for others, it might be their second or third time sitting for the test. Regardless, it’s anxiety provoking because application deadlines are upon us, and test scores may need to be submitted to schools to “complete” applications.

For students who have lower-than-hoped-for private school entrance testing scores, I want to offer some pieces of advice based on my experience:

1. Don't Panic: Yup! Sounds obvious, right?! But really, don’t panic! If you’re a parent who is worried about your student’s results, then your student will be too. It's natural for them (or you) to feel disappointed with lower test scores but try not to dwell on the results. Remember that standardized tests are just one aspect of the admissions process, and there are so many other factors that schools consider. This I know!

2. Identify Weak Areas: Take some time to reflect on which areas of the test were particularly challenging for your child. What sort of error pattern can you discern? Did they miss a lot of synonyms or were word problems the struggle? What are you noticing? If you can identify specific areas where they struggled, consider getting your student additional support in this area if they are going to sit for the test again. Regardless, can you raise the area of weakness with your admissions representative in case there is a reason for this gap?

3. Retesting? Practice, Practice, Practice: If your student is going to retest again soon, practicing the test is key to improving any test scores. Help them dedicate time to regular practice sessions, focusing on areas of weakness identified in your previous tests. Utilize practice exams, online resources, and study guides to familiarize yourself with the test format and content.

4. Manage Test Anxiety: If you suspect test anxiety contributed to lower scores, explore strategies to help your student manage their stress and anxiety during test-taking. Techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can help calm nerves and improve performance. For those who know me, I am not a consultant who believes in tons and tons of test prep. But I am a believer in being prepared and familiar, as that previewing leads to familiarity. And knowledge is power! It is this knowledge of what to expect that will give students ridden with test anxiety power over the test!

5. Focus on Your Full Application: Remember that private schools consider a holistic view of each applicant, including academic performance, extracurricular involvement, recommendations, personal essays and your student’s interview. In my experience, most schools consider all these aspects of your child’s application, gaining a comprehensive understanding of your student beyond their test scores! It allows them to assess your student's potential to thrive academically, contribute to the school community, and embody the values and mission of the private school. Remind yourself and your student of the genuine, thoughtful, and intentional ways they’ve presented themselves through their application materials and interactions with the admissions committee! That authenticity, my friends, is what matters most!

6. Explore Alternative Options: While you may have your heart set on certain private schools, consider exploring alternative options that may be more flexible with admissions criteria or offer support programs for students with diverse academic backgrounds. There are so many wonderful independent school options and many that do not require standardized test scores. Again, it’s just a test score and these schools recognize that there is so much more that a student is made of!

7. Stay Positive and Persistent: Focus on your student’s effective effort, as that will help your child maintain a growth mindset! Remember that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process for all of us, including our kids, and perseverance is key to helping them achieve their goals. One of my favorite books that helps us remember this is Jessica Lahey’s book, The Gift of Failure!

8. Focus on the Right Fit Schools: Ultimately, focusing on your child’s long-term academic growth and personal development should be your goal, rather than fixating solely on test scores, brand name schools or admissions outcomes. Learn and grow with your student and trust that the right school will recognize their wonderful potential beyond standardized test scores!

However your student is processing their test scores, help them see the bigger picture and not get caught up in the nitty gritty details of scores only.

What are some ways you are helping your student to focus on all their strengths?