Category: SAT
Test Prep Tips for the ACT and SAT
When preparing for the ACT or SAT it’s important to develop an effective test prep strategy. From selecting the right test to setting score goals and creating a testing timeline, a good test prep plan can make all the difference in students’ performance on the ACT or SAT. Here are some test prep tips to help students prepare for the SAT or ACT.
Test Score Submit Rates for Class of 2025
Percentage of SAT and ACT Score Submissions for the Class of 2025The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the way higher education institutions review applications with many colleges choosing to adopt a temporary test-optional application review process. However, with record-breaking applicant pools and record-low admit rates, families are worried that test-optional may not really mean test-optional at all. Here is what we know, so far.
List of Colleges Extending Test-Optional Policies
UPDATED: List of Colleges Extending Test-Optional Policies The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on a number of changes within the standardized testing industry, including the introduction of a new, entirely digital testing format and many colleges shifting to a test-optional admissions process for the 2020-21 admissions cycle. In fact, 75% of four-year colleges and universities will not require SAT or ACT scores for the 2021-22 admissions cycle.
What to Know About the New Digital SAT
On January 25, the College Board announced that starting in 2023 and 2024, the SAT (including the PSAT) would become an entirely computer-based exam. High school students and families might be wondering how this will impact their test prep and college prep strategies. Read on to learn more!
Test-Taking Strategies: How to Ace the College Test Prep
Exams like the SAT, ACT, PSAT and AP tests can all seem overwhelming at first. Being asked to complete an academic assessment is already stressful, and it’s even more challenging to perform well under timed conditions when the stakes are high.
The good news is that it’s possible to put most of your test-taking anxieties at ease and ace your college test prep. The secret to performing your best is taking advantage of tried-and-true test-taking strategies that will set every student up for success.
Test Prep 101: Guide to the SAT Math Section
By IvyWise Master Tutor
The SAT Math Test is divided into four main sections: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, Passport to Advanced Math, and Additional Topics in Math.
College Board Eliminates SAT Subject Tests Permanently
SAT Subject Tests and the Essay Section of the SAT are Gone for GoodThe College Board announced that it is discontinuing SAT Subject Tests permanently, as well as revamping the current SAT exam to eliminate the optional essay section.
Navigating Fall Testing in 2020
What You Need to Know if Testing is on Your Radar This FallThis fall, students may feel like they’re approaching a crossroads. While many originally planned on taking the PSAT, SAT, or ACT during their fall semester, the COVID-19 pandemic has added a layer of uncertainty to their college preparation plans. As some testing sites begin to reopen, new questions have emerged. Some students may be wondering whether they should register for a fall exam, what taking the SAT or ACT during the COVID-19 pandemic will look like, and what their options are if they decide against sitting for an exam.
New SAT to Old SAT Score Conversion Chart
SAT Score Conversion Chart for New SAT, Old SAT, and ACT ScoresWant to see how your scores on the SAT compare to ACT? The College Board has updated the concordance tables so students can see how their SAT total scores compare to composite ACT scores.
Why SAT and ACT Scores Still Matter as Test-Optional Choices Rise
Despite an Increase in Test-Optional Choices, Consider Taking the SAT and ACT
Most high school juniors have many questions running through their minds, as the upcoming college admissions cycle will be unlike any other. Amongst other changes, an increasing number of schools are shifting to test-optional admissions policies in response to the cancellation of spring SAT and ACT examinations.
Understanding Your Junior Year PSAT Score
Put Your PSAT Score into Context to Decide What Steps to Take Next
After studying for the exam, learning about the PSAT’s structure, and finally taking the exam, many students anxiously await their test scores. However, once the results are in, it can be challenging to put them into context and understand exactly what a given score means.
How to Set Test Prep Goals for 2020
Get a Head Start on Planning for the New Year
With the new year right around the corner, now’s the time to start thinking about your test prep goals for 2020. Whether you’re a freshman who is just beginning to think about college, a sophomore gearing up to start test prep, or a junior who is already in the thick of it, there are concrete steps that you can take in 2020 to get closer to achieving your test prep goals.
Tips to Prepare for the December SAT
Here’s What Students Need to Do to Prepare for the SAT This December
The December SAT is a month away, and whether it’s your first time taking the SAT or you’re looking to improve your score, there’s a lot that you can do in the month leading up to the exam in order to reach your goal score.
Colleges That Don’t Honor Score Choice
Learn How Score Choice Works and Which Schools Honor It
For high school students navigating the college application process, the back-to-school season is about a lot more than starting new classes. In addition to coursework, many students are preparing all of the components of their college applications, including submitting test scores.
5 Scary Grammar Rules to Watch Out for on the SAT or ACT
Watch Out for These Tricky Grammar Rules When Taking the SAT or ACT
When it comes to editing, taking a moment to reflect on how something sounds can help you troubleshoot some common errors. Unfortunately, not every grammar question can be solved simply by sounding it out; there are some sentences that may sound “right”, but fall short when it comes to proper grammar.
5 Tips to Make Test Prep More Fun
Studying for the SAT and ACT Can Be a Lot More Enjoyable with These Pointers
For many students, the premise of passing up movie nights and weekends with friends for practice tests and study sessions is far from appealing. While test preparation will probably never become anyone’s go-to leisure activity, there are ways to make studying for the SAT or ACT more enjoyable.
What’s on the SAT?
Learn About Every Kind of Question You Can Expect on the SAT
Performing well on standardized tests is about so much more than thinking quickly and bubbling in the answers. In order to really excel on exams, it is important to have a thorough understanding of exactly what the test will cover and review accordingly.
Testing Accommodations for the SAT and ACT
Learn What Kind of Accommodations Are Available for the SAT & ACT
The SAT and ACT can feel overwhelming for any test taker, but for students with learning differences or disabilities there can be an additional piece to the testing puzzle: obtaining appropriate accommodations in order to have the best chance of reaching their goal score on test day.
4 Standardized Testing Tips for International Students
Starting Early and Working Smart Can Help International Students Get Ahead on Standardized Tests
By Richard, IvyWise Master Tutor
When it comes to getting a great score on the ACT or SAT, the process of preparing and studying for the exam can seem quite complicated, especially if students are applying from abroad and aren’t familiar with the test. Instead of stressing out, know it can be done—as long as students learn about the exam and create a testing strategy.
4 Easy to Overlook Tips for the ACT and SAT
An Expert Tutor Breaks Down 4 ACT and SAT Tips That Many Students Overlook
By Richard, IvyWise Master Tutor
The college prep process can often be complicated, and the complexities of this journey can make it easy to overlook a few key tips that have a great record of helping students raise their ACT and SAT scores and pave the way toward long-term success.
SAT vs. ACT: Which Exam Is “Better?”
SAT vs. ACT: Which Exam Is “Better?” A common question that families consider when their college-bound students are preparing for the SAT or ACT is “which test is better?” Or “are the ACT and SAT considered equally in the application review process?” There’s been a long-held myth that one test is favored over the other, however, that’s simply not the case.
Use Games to Improve Your SAT Score
Have Some Fun and Prep for the SAT With These GamesBy Joey, Master Tutor
When it comes to improving SAT scores, there’s no substitute for comprehensive test prep. However, there are activities you can do outside of studying to help reframe how you approach certain test problems and concepts. Games in particular are an excellent way to practice setting and achieving goals, as well as problem solving under pressure.
What Students Need to Know About Superscoring
Here Is The IvyWise Guide To Superscoring With Instructions On How To Send SAT And ACT Score Reports
A question we often receive is “what is superscoring?” College-bound students are often confused about what it means to superscore, which colleges do it, and how it impacts submitting their SAT or ACT scores. But we’re here to help! Here’s what students need to know about the logistics of superscoring and how it may improve your score profile when applying to college.
How to Weigh Testing Accommodations in Your Test Prep
For Students Requiring Testing Accommodations, It’s Important To Consider Your Options Along With Your Test Prep Plan
According to The College Board, nearly 160,000 requests for testing accommodations were made in 2015-16. For students with learning disabilities or differences (LDs), deciding which college entrance exam – the SAT or the ACT – is the best fit for their needs can be extra challenging as they must navigate additional considerations, like applying to accommodations. While one test isn’t preferable over the other for every LD – everyone is an individual – there are some elements that make one test for preferable over another depending on students’ needs and available accommodations.
SAT and ACT Prep: How Many Practice Tests Should I Take?
Take Multiple SAT and ACT Practice Tests As Part of Your Test Prep Plan
Practice tests are an integral part of any test ACT prep program, especially when you’re preparing for the SAT or ACT. Regardless of the test you plan to take, practice exams give you an opportunity to challenge your skills and gauge your progress.
Test Prep FAQ: Can You Reschedule Your SAT or ACT?
Consider Rescheduling Your SAT or ACT Exam Date If Appropriate
The most important rule of test prep: Don’t sit for the SAT or ACT if you’re not ready. During the spring semester, students dedicate a significant amount of time preparing for a slew of exams ranging from AP exams and finals to the SAT or ACT and SAT Subject Tests. Many students may have a test prep plan in place already, but plans can change and that’s okay! Rescheduling your test date is an option, but how do you know if you should?
How to Prep for Successful SAT and ACT Practice Tests
Full-Length SAT and ACT Practice Tests Are a Key Component of Any Test Prep Plan
The spring semester is a big test prep time for college bound students, as many juniors will be taking the SAT or ACT in the coming months. Taking practice tests is an essential part of the test preparation process because the best way to prep for the SAT or ACT is to actually take them! But it’s not enough to take practice tests. Students also need to simulate the test day environment as best as they can.
Test Prep 101: SAT and ACT Diagnostics
Students Should Take a Full-Length Diagnostic of Both the SAT and ACT
By Megan, IvyWise Tutoring Manager
With application season upon us, it’s time for sophomores and juniors to begin preparing for and taking standardized tests. The first step to preparing for the SAT or ACT is to decide which test is the best fit for your skills and abilities. While there are countless articles comparing the SAT and ACT and why you should take a certain exam, in reality the tests are incredibly similar. Ultimately, there is no clear sign of which test to prepare for without taking diagnostics of each exam.
SAT Calculator Hacks From An Expert Tutor
Tips and Free Tools For Students Using Calculators On the SAT
By Priyam, IvyWise Master Tutor
It’s SAT and ACT season for college bound students, and many will go into these tests with a calculator in-hand. Make sure you know how – and when – to use it.
Innovative Free Apps To Help You Step Up Your SAT and ACT Vocabulary
Utilize Free Resoures To Supplement Your Test Prep
By Megan, IvyWise Tutoring Manager
Expanding your vocabulary is important in high school, especially when preparing for the SAT or ACT, as they both have sections that will test your reading skills and your knowledge of certain words and their definitions. There are a number of free apps that students can use to enhance their vocabulary and make the most of their test prep.
How Many Times Should I Take the SAT or ACT?
Students Should Avoid Taking College Entrance Exams Too Many Times
Junior year is a big testing year for college bound students, and as they prepare for the SAT or ACT many students might not be taking the test for the first time. It’s not uncommon for students to take the SAT or ACT multiple times, but how many times is too many?
When Should You Take SAT Subject Tests?
SAT Subject Tests Are Sometimes an Application Requirement But They Can Also Help You Boost Your Applicant Profile
By Megan, IvyWise Tutoring Manager
The school year is coming, but what does that mean? Students will begin thinking about (or stressing about) when they should take their college placement exams. While students usually have a reasonable handle on when to start studying for the SAT or ACT, there seems to be confusion on whether or not to take SAT Subject Tests and when.
SAT and ACT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines 2017-18
Here’s When You Can Take the SAT and ACT
Preparing for the SAT or ACT is a major aspect of the college admissions process, and part of determining the best test prep strategy is to know exactly when you plan to take these college entrance exams. We’ve pulled together the SAT and ACT test dates and registration deadlines for the 2017-18 school year so that college-bound students can access this information in one place – and better prepare for testing this fall and next spring.
Taking the August SAT? Here’s How to Prep
Test Prep Tips and Resources For Students Planning to Take the SAT in AugustThe registration deadline for the August SAT is fast approaching (July 28 and August 8 with late fee), so if you plan on taking the exam later this summer it’s time to get serious about your test prep. There are a number of resources that you can utilize this summer in order to prepare for the August SAT.
Test Prep 101: Guide to the SAT Essay
Here’s What Students Need to Know About the SAT Essay Section
By IvyWise Master Tutor
Understanding test content, formatting, and changes are important when preparing for the SAT – especially the essay portion. There have been a number of changes to the SAT since the launch of the new exam in 2016, and our guide to the SAT Essay will help students better understand how to master this section should they choose to take it.
Test Prep 101: Guide to the SAT Writing Section
Here’s What Students Need to Know About the SAT Writing Section
By IvyWise Master Tutor
Understanding test content, formatting, and changes are important when preparing for the SAT – especially the writing section. There have been a number of changes to the SAT writing section since the launch of the new exam in 2016, and IvyWise is here to help students better understand how to master this portion of the SAT.
SAT and ACT Announce Changes for 2017-18 Testing Season
SAT to Limit International Test Dates, ACT Adding July AdministrationLast year saw some big changes for the SAT, and now both the College Board, which administers the SAT, and the ACT have announced changes for the 2017-18 testing season, including tighter security, new test dates, and more.
Test Prep 101: Guide to the SAT Reading Section
Here’s What Students Need to Know About the SAT Reading Section
By IvyWise Master Tutor
We’re almost a year removed from The College Board’s rollout of the 2016 SAT test redesign, so students and parents by now have a better sense of the test’s layout—that the reading section, for example, contains 52 questions and is timed to 65 minutes. There are however a couple of major conceptual changes in the SAT reading section that will be helpful for how students and parents approach preparing for the test.
SAT and ACT Test Dates and Registration Deadlines
Here’s When You Can Take the SAT and ACT
Taking the SAT or ACT is a big element of the college admissions journey for many students, and it’s important for students and parents to know when the exams are offered, when to register, and how much it costs.
Should You Take SAT Subject Tests?
Know the Pros and Cons Before Taking SAT Subject Tests
Fall is a busy testing season for high school students, and even more so for seniors applying to college. In addition to the ACT or SAT, some students also choose to take SAT Subject Tests as part of their admissions testing. But is it right for you?
