As the world continues to evolve, so do the methods for evaluating knowledge and competency for your student. Entrance exams are no exception. In recent years, there has been a shift in the way these exams are administered, as well as a growing debate about their effectiveness. We can help with effective prep and rationale for choosing the right test for your students’ future.
During COVID and after, many colleges and universities did not require these SAT or ACT scores in applications. Even if colleges don’t require them for applications, many states require high school students to take one of these exams in order to graduate. For a summarized list, click here.
Benefits of SAT & ACT Tests:
- SAT/ACT results can help your students’ application stand out, including demonstrating your dedication to the preparation and actual investment in the test-taking process.
- Although colleges may mainly focus on student essays, grades, and extracurricular activities, some colleges will still consider scores if they are submitted.
- Test scores can be required for merit scholarships, so taking the exam will help your student ensure they’re prepared for any opportunities that arise.
- Colleges may ask for test scores for class placement, if a student lives out of state, or if your student is pursuing certain majors.
- SAT/ACT results can help prepare for college-level coursework since they’re designed to assess college readiness. Studying for these tests can help develop the skills needed to succeed in college. These skills include critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management.
Test Prep Recommendations:
Now that we’ve covered the benefits of taking the SAT/ACT, let’s review how to effectively prepare for test day. The earlier the preparation, the more confident your student will be when it’s time to take the test. First-time test-takers should begin studying at least three months in advance, but for those who struggle with certain concepts, starting six months out can give your student the advantage they need.
- Decide which test to take. Almost all colleges take scores from either test (if they’re not test-blind), and both exams are equal in the level of difficulty. However, students who excel in the language arts may have better luck with the ACT, while those with strong math skills find the SAT better suits them. Taking practice tests can help you determine which test aligns with your strengths.
- Determine when to take the test. Both tests are offered seven times a year, and because your student can take them multiple times, it’s best to schedule the first exam as early in the semester as possible. It is important to also base the test date on current school load – if your student is overwhelmed with classes and sports in the fall, it might be best to wait until early spring to make sure there is adequate time to study.
- Take advantage of tutorials and testing. Personalized, targeted instruction is the best way to improve performance and measure progress. College Readiness Tutorials for both the ACT and SAT through ALVS can help you meet goals through individualized learning paths. Because the Tutorials actively engage students, they help students break down rigorous content, fill prerequisite gaps, and deepen understanding of complex concepts. In addition, real-time data alerts students to learning gaps that need to be addressed.
Individualized instruction provided by Apex College Readiness Tutorials paves the way for SAT and ACT success for your student. Here is additional helpful information that demonstrates the effectiveness of Apex Learning Tutorials. You can count on Tutorials to thoroughly prepare your students.
Research Shows SAT & ACT Tutorials Improve Scores. See the Stats:
Learn more about effective test preparation with Apex Learning ACT Tutorials and SAT Tutorials for your student
