Navigating College Board Exams: What if I Don't Do Well?

Many students face the concern of failing a College Board exam, especially when high scores are crucial for college applications. If you're feeling anxious about your performance, there are several options you can consider to improve your situation.

Applying to Open Boards

If you're worried about your initial performance, you can apply for open boards, which are offered twice a year, typically in June/July. This provides you with a second chance to achieve better results without losing out on your academic year.

Preparation and Reattempting Exams

Reviewing your preparation and taking the exam again can significantly improve your chances of success. Some students are naturally excellent at these exams and can achieve top results on their first attempt. However, better performance doesn't just depend on innate ability; proper preparation plays a crucial role.

Retaking College Board Exams

The College Board offers a wide range of exams, and the length of time between retakes can vary depending on the specific exam. Generally, you can retake exams almost immediately, while others are offered only once a year. With over 50 exams available, it's important to note that without specific details, this is as detailed as we can get.

It's worth noting that many colleges do not require you to report a bad score. However, a handful of American colleges do ask for all SAT scores. Additionally, you may have the option to cancel your score, but the rules for this can vary significantly. It's important to check the College Board's official website for the most accurate and specific information regarding score reporting and cancellation policies.

Impact on College Admission and Future Prospects

Once you're admitted to a college, no one will care about your initial exam scores after two months, including yourself. However, the impact of your scores can vary depending on your chosen field of study:

For Law: High CLAT scores are critical, as they determine your college prospects. For Science: You may need a minimum score to qualify for science courses or programs. For Commerce: A higher score might be necessary to secure a place in commerce-related programs. For Humanities: Performance in math subjects may be important for certain programs.

While social pressures from parents, family, and friends can be significant, remember that ultimately it is your life. Do what you feel is best for you, and don't let external pressures dictate your decisions.

To provide some perspective, here are my own scores for reference. In 10th grade, I scored 72.2, and in 12th grade, I scored 84. It's important to remember that the phrase 'Nikame toh nahi hai kuchh toh kar hi lenge zindagi meh' (We won't let anything hold us back, let's just do what we want in life) can offer valuable resilience in the face of setbacks.