The SAT and the ACT are very different college entrance exams and most colleges are now accepting both. This has led to most students taking both the SAT and the ACT tests, although that is not required or suggested by many professionals in the college admissions field. Junior and senior year of high school are already very busy times so planning ahead really helps! When should my child take the SAT or ACT? While it looks like there are … [Read more...]
Does the PSAT Matter? Should You Prepare?
The PSAT will be given to area high school juniors (and younger students in some districts) on Wednesday, October 16. But does this test really matter? Should you take it seriously? Is it something students should prepare for so that you do well? Do Colleges Care About the PSAT? The PSAT is not used directly by colleges and universities when they make their college admissions decisions. Your acceptance or rejection into college … [Read more...]
News about SAT and ACT Tests
Update June 2020: The ACT has decided to add 3 new test dates to Fall 2020. Registration opens the last week of July. Mark your calendars! September Saturday, September 12 Sunday, September 13 Saturday, September 19 (new test date) October Saturday, October 10 (new test date)Saturday, October 17 (new test date)Saturday, October 24Sunday, October 25 … [Read more...]
Do I have to include the essay on the SAT or ACT?
The essay portion on the SAT and ACT is confusing for many students and families. It is optional and can be added while registering for a test date. So the question I hear a lot is: Do I have to do the essay on the SAT or ACT? Unfortunately, the answer is 'it depends'. Only a small number of colleges require or recommend the writing score from the SAT or ACT test, so most students do not need to include the optional writing on the tests. The … [Read more...]
Can my ACT score get me a scholarship?
Guest post by: David Recine, Magoosh The link between ACT scores and getting accepted into school is obvious. Meet a school’s expectations, and you’ll get in. But what about the connection between ACT scores and paying for school once you’re accepted? That is never quite so obvious. Today, we’re going to take a closer look at how your ACT score can translate into money in your pocket… or at least, money applied to your tuition bill. Which … [Read more...]
How to Improve SAT or ACT Reading Scores
Vocabulary isn't as critical on the SAT/ACT anymore, but to improve reading comprehension and speed, I usually recommend kids do 2-3 of the items on this list for several months before the test: Read the New York Times (or other higher-level newspaper) once a week. You can get Sunday delivery or order digital access online. Students should highlight words they don't know, look them up, then read it again, then explain the news to someone … [Read more...]
What is a good SAT or ACT score?
Well, it depends. It depends on the colleges you're applying to, the majors you're selecting, and scholarship goals. Here are average SAT and ACT scores for a few colleges: … [Read more...]
ACT Adding New Summer Test Date
Beginning in 2018, ACT will begin offering students a chance to take the ACT over the summer, starting July 2018. This new test date will increase the number of test dates from six to seven dates each year. To accommodate the new summer testing date, the test will be offered at local community colleges annd university campuses, instead of high schools that traditionally offer the tests during the school year. “Students, educators and colleges … [Read more...]
How to Prepare for the ACT Test
The ACT is a national college admissions examination that consists of subject area tests in: English (grammar) Math Reading (passages and comprehension) Science (charts and graphs) The ACT Plus Writing includes the four subject area tests plus a 30-minute Writing Test. The ACT includes 215 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, including a short break (or just over four hours if … [Read more...]
Average ACT Scores for Texas Universities
Colleges admissions offices evaluate each student individually based on: SAT or ACT scores GPA/Class Rank Strength of Curriculum (courses chosen, including AP classes) Extracurricular activities, including leadership roles Community service Others, including essays, teacher recommendations and achievements/awards Each column lists the ACT score for the 25-75% of accepted students in 2015 admissions process. Keep in mind … [Read more...]
