The SAT is quickly approaching for students at Kearsley, which means that one simple test could determine a great deal of their future.

Ms. Kari Shaw, English teacher, can’t stress enough how important the SAT is.

“You will never know when the SATs will be a barrier to something that you want to do,” Shaw said. “For example, getting excepted into a competitive college that requires an excellent score.

“You might have good grades, but if you don’t do well on the SAT you will not be accepted. Scholarships also require an impressive SAT score too.”

If scores are high, colleges will be accepting, but if scores are too low colleges may require students to retake basic classes before taking classes related to their field of study.

The SAT adapted a new grading scale earlier this year. Previously, the range for scores was 600-2400, but on the redesigned SAT, scores range from 400-1600, according to Prepscholar.

Many colleges expect students to have scored the average or higher for both the math (520 or higher) and reading (510 or higher) portions, according to Kaplan Test Prep.

If students are below average, they may have to retake basic classes.

The best scores account for 10 percent of test takers, and competitive scores are the top 25 percent.

There is still time for students to get prepared and figure out their weaknesses to ensure they get the best scores possible.

Experts suggest taking advantage of sites like Kahn Academy, a website that offers practice SAT tests and workshops.

Mrs. Kim Loyer, math teacher, believes that you can always better yourself and become more prepared.

“The best way to prepare for the SAT is to practice, practice, practice to identify a weak spot so you can drill it,” Loyer said. “Take practice tests from Kahn Academy because they have tips, strategies and more details on the test.”

Mr. Craig Golembiewski, counselor, believes students can take practice exams to feel more comfortable with the test.

“My thought on using practice tests is just that familiarity with the structure of the SAT/ACT, as well as the types of questions that will be asked, can go a long way in reducing anxiety and maximizing performance on the these exams,” Golembiewski said.