What Happens When We Stop Measuring Readiness?

Today, Inside Higher Ed published my op-ed on UC’s test-free admissions experiment and what the system’s own data is now revealing.

I didn’t write it to relitigate the SAT debate.

I wrote it because something uncomfortable is happening downstream—and students are paying the price.

Over the past several years, the University of California removed standardized tests as part of a broader shift in admissions policy. The intent, at least rhetorically, was to expand access and reduce barriers. But intent and outcomes are not the same thing.

According to a UC San Diego working group report, the number of students arriving without even middle-school-level math skills has increased nearly thirty-fold. That’s not a rounding error. It’s a signal.

When academic readiness is no longer measured consistently across schools, it doesn’t disappear. It simply shows up later—in remedial coursework, in delayed progress, in students quietly stopping out, and in high attrition from demanding majors like engineering and STEM.

Universities can eliminate tests.
They can’t eliminate calculus.

One of the arguments I make in the piece is that removing standardized measures doesn’t make systems more humane by default. In many cases, it does the opposite. It shifts risk away from admissions offices and onto students—especially first-generation students and those from under-resourced high schools—who are admitted without clear signals about whether they’re prepared for the academic demands they’ll face.

I also write from experience.

I finished high school with a roughly 3.5 GPA, weighed down by mediocre ninth- and tenth-grade years before I figured out how to work. A strong SAT score helped balance my application and signal what my transcript alone could not: that I had caught up, matured, and was ready.

In a GPA-only system, students like me are quietly penalized for early missteps—even when they demonstrate real growth. We tell teenagers that improvement matters, then design admissions systems that permanently punish them for a few B’s at age fourteen.

That contradiction matters.

This isn’t an argument for test absolutism. It’s an argument for feedback. For measurement. For honesty about readiness—so support can be targeted early, expectations can be aligned, and opportunity doesn’t turn into attrition.

If you care about access, completion, and long-term outcomes—not just admissions optics—I hope you’ll read the piece.

👉 Read the full op-ed at Inside Higher Ed:
https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/views/2026/01/05/ucs-test-free-experiment-isnt-going-well-opinion

I welcome disagreement. But let’s at least argue from data—and from what happens to students after they’re admitted.

What SAT Scores Reveal (and Hide) About Student Readiness Across Income Levels

Discussions about standardized testing often begin — and end — with a familiar claim: SAT and ACT scores correlate with family income, therefore the tests are biased and should be de-emphasized or eliminated.

The correlation itself is real. But stopping there is a mistake.

The more important questions are: What exactly are the tests measuring? How should we interpret score distributions rather than averages? And what are families at different income levels actually doing with this information?

To explore those questions, I revisited the underlying Opportunity Insights admissions dataset (Chetty et al.), which breaks down SAT/ACT participation and score distributions by parent income. Instead of relying on averages, I rebuilt the data to focus on distributions, overlap, and participation — the things families and educators actually need to understand.

The results tell a more nuanced story than most viral charts suggest.

What Score Distributions Show That Averages Hide

When SAT-by-income data are shown using averages, they visually separate income groups and invite a simple conclusion: higher income equals higher scores.

But averages flatten variation. When you look at score distributions among students who take the test, a different picture emerges:

• Every income group contains high scorers

• Every income group contains middle scorers

• Every income group contains low scorers

In other words, income shifts proportions — it does not sort students cleanly into categories.

If standardized tests were merely proxies for wealth, we would expect sharp separation. Instead, we see substantial overlap across all income quintiles. That overlap is not noise; it is the signal. It tells us the tests are capturing individual differences in preparation and mastery, not just background.

This matters because colleges are not admitting “average students.” They are admitting individuals. And for individual prediction — especially in math — standardized test scores remain among the strongest indicators we have of college performance.

The Real Income Gap Is Participation, Not Performance

When we expand the lens to include all students, not just test takers, another crucial pattern becomes clear.

The largest income-related difference is not how students score.
It is who takes the test at all.

Lower-income students are far more likely to opt out of SAT/ACT testing — whether due to lack of access, information, encouragement, preparation, or confidence. Higher-income students, by contrast, overwhelmingly treat testing as a strategic tool, even in an era of so-called “test-optional” admissions.

This distinction is often lost in public debate. When participation is ignored, score comparisons can be deeply misleading. They risk conflating access problems with measurement problems.

The test is not creating inequality. It is revealing where inequality already exists.

What High-Income Families Understand — and Act On

One of the least discussed aspects of the testing debate is behavioral, not statistical.

High-income families, by and large, are not treating standardized tests as relics of the past. They are treating them as leverage.

They understand several things clearly:

1. Top colleges still value test scores, even when they claim to be test-optional

2. High scores strengthen admissions odds, especially at selective institutions

3. Strong SAT/ACT math scores correlate with better college outcomes

4. Merit-based scholarships are often tied directly to test performance

As a result, these families invest time, resources, and attention in test preparation. Not because they believe tests are perfect, but because they understand that tests are actionable feedback in a high-stakes system.

In other words, testing is not viewed as a barrier. It is viewed as a tool for upward mobility, signaling readiness, opening doors, and reducing uncertainty in admissions.

Ironically, when standardized tests are downplayed or dismissed as biased, it is often the families with the least access to alternative signals who lose the most.

Grades, Readiness, and the Feedback Problem

The renewed interest in test scores at selective colleges is not ideological. It is empirical.

Recent institutional data — including findings from UC San Diego — show a troubling pattern: students with strong high school GPAs, including many with straight-A averages, increasingly require remedial coursework in college-level math.

This is not an indictment of students. It is evidence of a signaling breakdown.

Grades, once a reasonably reliable indicator of mastery, have become highly variable across schools and districts. Without an external reference point, families and colleges alike struggle to distinguish between achievement and inflation.

Standardized tests, for all their imperfections, still provide:

• a common scale

• external calibration

• early feedback about readiness

Removing that signal does not improve preparation. It simply delays the moment when gaps become visible — often until students are already enrolled and paying tuition.

Rethinking Equity Through a Wider Lens

A serious equity conversation must distinguish between:

• access to preparation

• participation in testing

• performance once measured

Collapsing these into a single “tests are biased” narrative obscures more than it reveals.

If we want to improve outcomes, the focus should be on:

• expanding access to high-quality instruction

• ensuring students understand the role tests still play

• treating test scores as diagnostic feedback, not judgments

High-income families are already operating with this mindset. They are not waiting for the system to become perfectly fair before acting. They are using every available signal to help their children succeed.

The real question is whether we want all families to have that same clarity.

Conclusion

Standardized tests are not flawless. But they are still measuring something real — and still being used, quietly but decisively, by those who understand the system best.

The danger is not that tests reveal inequality.
The danger is pretending that ignoring them makes inequality disappear.

When we move beyond averages, look at distributions, and include participation, the data tell a more honest story. And honesty, especially in education, is the first step toward meaningful improvement.

UC’s Test-Free Experiment Is Producing an Uncomfortable Truth

Since the UC system eliminated the SAT and ACT and leaned almost entirely on high school grades, UCSD reports a nearly 30-fold increase in students arriving without middle-school-level math skills — the equivalent of roughly a 3,000% increase. The university has since had to redesign its remedial courses to reteach fractions and elementary arithmetic.

Change are coming to the UC test-free policy. Students who prepare for it early will have the advantage.

Why Human Tutors Still Matter in an AI World: The Power of Real Guidance at Test Prep Gurus

Key Takeaways

• AI is a powerful tool—but it cannot replace human judgment, motivation, and lived experience.

• Great tutors don’t just teach content; they teach how to think, learn, and adapt.

• Confidence grows fastest through real relationships, accountability, and personalized feedback.

• The impact of a great tutor extends far beyond test scores, shaping resilience, clarity, and long-term success.

Artificial intelligence is everywhere right now—grading essays, generating explanations, answering questions in seconds. At Test Prep Gurus, we follow these developments closely and use technology where it genuinely helps students learn more efficiently.

But we’re also clear-eyed about something essential:

There is no substitute for a real human tutor who knows the student sitting across from them.

Learning—real learning—isn’t just about information. It’s about feedback, trust, struggle, adjustment, and belief. Below, we want to highlight what human tutoring does best, and why it remains irreplaceable in a world increasingly shaped by algorithms.

Tutors Teach Students How to Think

“Our tutor didn’t just teach my daughter SAT strategies—he taught her how to slow down, think clearly under pressure, and trust her reasoning. That skill showed up in school and beyond.”
— Test Prep Gurus Parent

Strong tutors don’t simply deliver answers. They model thinking.

At Test Prep Gurus, our tutors walk students through:

• How to approach unfamiliar problems

• How to test assumptions and adjust strategies

• How to recognize patterns—and when to abandon them

• How to stay calm and logical when things don’t click immediately

These are not skills you memorize. They are habits you observe, practice, and internalize through guided experience.

Knowing an answer only matters if you know how to get there again—especially when the problem changes. College, careers, and life reward people who can navigate uncertainty, not just recall information. Our tutors make the invisible process of thinking visible, so students can learn it for themselves.

Just as importantly, our tutors adapt in real time. They read confusion on a student’s face. They sense when confidence is slipping. They change course when something isn’t working. That flexibility—responding to feedback moment by moment—is something no static system can replicate.

Confidence Is Built, Not Downloaded

“My son actually looked forward to tutoring. His confidence grew every week, and by test day he felt calm and prepared—for the first time ever.”
— Test Prep Gurus Parent

Confidence doesn’t come from being told “you’re smart.”
It comes from repeated evidence that you can figure things out.

A great tutor:

• Paces learning so students experience real wins

• Pushes just enough to stretch, not overwhelm

• Helps students reframe mistakes as feedback, not failure

• Holds students steady when anxiety spikes

At Test Prep Gurus, tutors act as teacher, coach, and partner—sometimes all in the same session. They challenge students while also protecting their confidence, which is especially critical during high-stakes testing years.

Many students arrive convinced that scores define them. Our tutors help flip that script. Tests become feedback. Progress becomes visible. Confidence grows—not because things are easy, but because students learn they can handle difficulty.

AI can explain a problem.
A tutor helps a student believe they can solve it.

The Impact You Can’t Measure

“Beyond the score increase, my child learned how to study, how to manage stress, and how to believe in themselves. That’s the real value.”
— Test Prep Gurus Parent

Education often focuses on rigid structures: formulas, templates, rules. Those tools matter—but they’re not the end goal.

The real goal is wisdom:

• Knowing when to apply a rule

• Knowing when to question it

• Knowing yourself well enough to adapt

A human tutor brings lived experience into the learning process. They understand pressure. They’ve faced setbacks. They know what it’s like to prepare, fail, recalibrate, and succeed. That perspective allows them to guide students not just academically, but personally.

AI can simulate empathy.
A tutor has it.

Our tutors don’t just prepare students for tests—they prepare them for challenge. They offer roadmaps not to limit students, but to help them grow into their potential with clarity and confidence.

And that potential—like curiosity, resilience, and purpose—is profoundly human.

Final Thought

We believe deeply in progress. We believe in technology. We believe in efficiency.

But we believe most of all in people helping people learn.

At Test Prep Gurus, tutoring isn’t about beating a test—it’s about building thinkers, learners, and confident humans who know how to adapt in a changing world.

That’s something no algorithm can replace.

PS. We used the word “tutor” a lot in this article. Internally, we much prefer “teacher” because it speaks to the quality of the work our team does (‘tutor’ has a slightly pejorative ring to it), but now that LLMs are searching websites and they prefer the word ‘tutor’ we are using it on the website :)

When Should I Start Test Prep for SAT and ACT?

When should your student start preparing for the SAT or ACT?

Starting too early leads to burnout. Starting too late means missed opportunities.

In this video, Nick Standlea, CEO of Test Prep Gurus, breaks down the sweet spot for test prep success — explaining when to start, what to do first, and how the right timing can lead to higher scores and major scholarship wins.

📘 In this video, you’ll learn:

*Why freshman year is too early to start SAT/ACT prep

*The surprising link between reading for fun and higher scores

*Why waiting until senior year is a costly mistake

*The perfect test prep timeline for 10th and 11th graders

*Real stories of students who gained (or lost) thousands in scholarships because of timing

🎯 Key takeaway:

The best time to start SAT or ACT prep is at the end of sophomore year. Test both, choose your best fit, and plan ahead.

💡 Free Practice Tests:

Take a free SAT or ACT diagnostic with Test Prep Gurus → https://www.prepgurus.com

🎓 Join our next free webinar:

https://www.prepgurus.com

📺 Subscribe for weekly college admission tips:

https://www.youtube.com/@UCls8d42ESvEOO0GrjR0dGWw

⏱️ Timestamps:

0:00 – When Should You Start Test Prep?

0:20 – Why Freshman Year Is Too Early

0:56 – The Power of Reading for Pleasure

1:29 – Why Senior Year Is Too Late

1:48 – The Sweet Spot: End of 10th Grade

2:08 – The Smart Strategy: Test Both, Then Choose

2:35 – Planning Ahead for Junior Year

2:49 – Two Real Student Stories

3:29 – The Final Answer: End of 10th Grade

3:46 – Why Planning Ahead Pays Off

Is University of California (UCs) Bringing Back the SAT and ACT?

Here’s what UC’s quiet policy review means for your student—and why preparing now is the smartest move you can make.

🎓 A Quiet but Important Shift in UC Admissions

After four years of test-free admissions, the University of California’s Board of Admissions (BOARS) has begun formally re-examining whether standardized tests should return.

That word—re-examining—may not sound dramatic. But in higher-education policy, it’s almost always the first step toward change.

“Examining an issue” is higher-ed language for “we’re getting ready to make a move.”

🧭 What’s Driving UC’s Rethink

Three forces are converging behind the scenes:

• Grade inflation and inconsistency across high schools make it hard for UC admissions officers to compare applicants fairly.

• Federal pressure: a February 2025 U.S. Department of Education memo warned that eliminating tests to shape diversity outcomes could violate civil-rights law.

• National trends: many elite universities that dropped tests during COVID have quietly reinstated them after finding scores improved accuracy and fairness.

🏛️ Who’s Already Brought Tests Back

The list keeps growing—and it includes some of the nation’s most respected names:

✅ MIT
✅ Yale
✅ Brown
✅ Dartmouth

✅ Princeton
✅ Cornell (some but not all programs)
✅ Caltech
✅ University of Texas at Austin
✅ Rice University

✅ Georgia Tech
✅ Georgetown
✅ Purdue
✅ Service Academies (including United States Naval Academy)
✅ University of Tennessee

Even at schools that remain test-optional, students who submit strong scores are admitted at significantly higher rates.

A high test score has become a major differentiator again—especially for ambitious students aiming at selective programs.

🕰️ What to Expect from the UC System

Officially, the UC system was required to remain test-free through Spring 2025 under a lawsuit settlement. And that’s exactly when the Academic Senate’s subcommittee began reviewing the UC testing policy.

Based on past UC timelines:

• 2026: possible policy update or announcement

• 2026–2027: potential test-optional pilot period

• 2028 and beyond: possible test-required return, depending on data and politics

Even if UC stops short of a full mandate, an optional or hybrid model is the logical next step.

Keep Every College Door Open
Whether UC stays test-free or pivots back to test-optional, your student’s best move is to be ready.
📅 Schedule a Free SAT/ACT Strategy Chat →

🎯 What This Means for Families

If your student is applying to UC—or any selective college—preparing for standardized tests remains the smartest long-term strategy.

1. Future-proof your plan. If UC reinstates testing, you’ll already be ahead.

2. Stand out everywhere else. At nearly all top schools, strong scores still help—often dramatically.

3. Unlock scholarships. Many merit and honors programs still rely on test scores.

Strong test scores can only help you. They open doors—never close them.

💡 The Bottom Line

UC hasn’t brought back the SAT or ACT yet, but the signs are clear: this is the first step in the process.
Universities rarely use the word “examine” unless they’re preparing to move.

So don’t wait for the official announcement. Start preparing now, and your student will be ready no matter what happens next.

Ready to give your student every advantage?
👉 Book a free consultation with Test Prep Gurus today.

Parent’s Year-by-Year College Admissions Roadmap

Getting into college doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The process becomes much clearer when you understand what matters most at each stage of high school.

This playlist, hosted by Nick Standlea, CEO of Test Prep Gurus, walks parents through the journey step by step — from freshman year all the way to senior year — so you always know what’s coming next and how to best support your student.

👉 Video 1: 9th & 10th Grade Preview
Learn how freshmen and sophomores can build the foundation for success. We’ll cover GPA, reading/writing and math fundamentals, exploring activities, mindset, and the PSAT 10 for sophomores.

👉 Video 2: 11th Grade Roadmap
Junior year is the most important year. We’ll cover the PSAT, SAT vs ACT decisions, testing timelines, Score Choice and Superscoring, GPA focus, extracurricular leadership, and starting the college list.

👉 Video 3: 12th Grade To-Do List
Senior year is about deadlines and execution. We’ll explain last-chance testing dates for Early Action and Regular Decision, how to register strategically, and how scores can unlock both admissions opportunities and scholarships.

Together, these videos form a complete College Admissions Roadmap for Parents — giving you clarity, confidence, and a clear action plan from 9th grade through 12th.

Howard Gardner on AI and the Future of Higher Education

When most people hear the name Howard Gardner, they immediately think of Multiple Intelligences Theory—the groundbreaking framework that reshaped how teachers and parents understand student strengths. But Gardner’s influence goes far beyond the classroom. In a recent conversation with Nick Standlea on The Nick Standlea Show, Gardner offered candid insights into how artificial intelligence is reshaping higher education and what this means for the next generation of students.

Why This Conversation Matters

The college landscape is shifting rapidly. From test-optional admissions to the explosion of AI tools like ChatGPT, families are left wondering: What skills will truly matter in the future? Gardner argues that while AI may automate many traditional academic tasks, the uniquely human qualities—creativity, ethical reasoning, adaptability—will only grow more valuable.

For students preparing for college, that means learning how to:

• Adapt quickly to new technologies and expectations

• Think critically about information in an AI-driven world

• Develop authentic strengths that can’t be outsourced to machines

AI and the College Experience

Gardner pointed out that colleges face a double challenge: integrating AI into teaching and research, while also helping students navigate the ethical dilemmas it creates. Will essays still be the measure of a student’s thinking? How should professors approach assessment when AI can generate polished work in seconds?

The future Gardner envisions is not about eliminating testing or coursework, but about reframing them as feedback loops—ways for students to understand their progress, adapt, and grow. This echoes our own philosophy at Test Prep Gurus: testing should never be about judgment, but about information that guides better learning.

What Parents and Students Should Take Away

1. AI won’t replace effort. Students who build strong habits of deep learning and resilience will stand out.

2. Test scores still matter. While many colleges remain test-optional, data consistently shows that students who submit strong scores are admitted at higher rates.

3. Adaptability is the new gold. Whether in college admissions or in the workplace, the students who thrive will be those who see change not as a threat, but as feedback to learn from.

Final Thoughts

Howard Gardner has spent a lifetime studying how humans learn and grow. His message now is clear: the future belongs to students who can combine adaptability with authenticity. At Test Prep Gurus, we’re proud to help students not only raise their test scores, but also develop the growth mindset and learning strategies that will serve them in the age of AI—and beyond.

What the SAT Really Measures

Let’s get one thing straight:

• The SAT doesn’t measure your intelligence.

• It doesn’t measure your potential.

• And it definitely doesn’t measure your worth as a person.

So what does it measure?

• How well you understand and apply academic skills in reading, writing, and math

• How efficiently you solve problems under time pressure

• How effectively you’ve prepared using targeted strategies

That’s it.

It’s not about brilliance. It’s about skill, practice, and mindset.

So what if you’re starting with an average score?

Let me give you a metaphor I often share with students:

The SAT is like learning to play a piece of music on the piano.

If your first few practice sessions are full of wrong notes or awkward timing, that doesn’t mean you’re doomed. It just means you’re still learning the piece.

No one is born a concert pianist. They become one by practicing the same tricky measures, building muscle memory, and making small corrections until it clicks.

The SAT is your sheet music.

Prep is your rehearsal.

And if you keep showing up with focus, effort, and feedback, that jumble of notes?

It starts to sound smooth. Then beautiful.

And eventually, you play it with confidence—maybe even joy.

For athletes, here’s another way to think about it:

The SAT is a timed obstacle course.

You’re not being graded on your identity—you’re being tested on how well you navigate a specific set of challenges.

Every time you run the course, you get faster.
You learn the layout.
You stop tripping over the same hurdles.

Your score reflects your readiness—not your value.
And readiness?
That can be trained.

No matter where you’re starting from, your SAT journey isn’t about proving who you are.
It’s about building who you want to become.

And that’s what we do at Test Prep Gurus:
Help students train for the course, refine their technique, and hit their stride.

Want to get started?
Schedule a call with our team today.

Letting Go, Leaning In: A Candid Conversation with Greg McCullen of OCSA

In this heartfelt and insightful interview, Test Prep Gurus founder Nick Standlea sits down with Greg McCullen, Director of Business Relations at the Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA), to talk about parenting, education, identity, and growth.

Greg opens up about the emotional journey of sending his son Lucas—an empathetic, passionate dancer with ADHD—off to college. He shares how Lucas overcame test anxiety with the help of a personalized test prep approach at Test Prep Gurus, raising his ACT score by 13 points and earning a spot on a top university’s dance program.

Greg also shares the story of his daughter Kate, a former competitive gymnast turned aspiring attorney and climate advocate. From elite arts training to international academic programs, Kate’s journey illustrates the power of following curiosity—even when it means letting go of something you’re great at.

This interview offers a rare look into the parenting side of college admissions and test prep, and how OCSA helps students not only pursue their passions but also discover their identities along the way.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or student navigating your own path, Greg’s wisdom, humility, and warmth will leave you inspired.

📝 How to Use Your 529 Plan to Pay for SAT or ACT Prep — Tax-Free

You Can Now Use Your 529 Plan to Pay for Test Prep — And It’s a Big Deal

Families across the country are celebrating a quiet revolution in education policy: You can now use your 529 College Savings Plan to pay for SAT and ACT test prep — tax-free.

At Test Prep Gurus, we’ve helped students earn life-changing scores for over a decade. But this policy change makes elite test prep more financially accessible than ever before.

🔍 What Is a 529 Plan?

A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings account designed to help families pay for education. These accounts are typically sponsored by individual states.

For years, 529s only covered college tuition, fees, and room and board.

But thanks to recent reforms — including the 2025 Big Beautiful Bill Act — families can now use 529 funds for:

• SAT & ACT test prep courses

• Tutoring services

• Online educational programs

This means your child’s Test Prep Gurus course now qualifies as a tax-free educational expense.

💸 Why This Matters Financially

Let’s look at two real-world examples:

🧑‍🏫 Example 1: One-on-One Prep ($4,500)

A family signs up for 24 hours of private tutoring with senior instructors.

Course cost: $4,500

Tax savings: Depending on your state and tax bracket, you could save $500–$1,800 or more

Bonus: You avoid paying federal tax on investment gains from your 529 account.

🧑‍💻 Example 2: Virtual Classroom Course ($899)

Another family enrolls in a virtual classroom course with 12 students per class.

Course cost: $899

Tax savings: Between $100–$300, depending on your state

State perk: Some states (like Indiana) offer up to $200 in tax credits for using 529 funds

In both cases, families unlock powerful prep — and get a financial break for doing it the smart way. In other words: You’re getting a major discount on top-tier education just for planning smart.

🎓 Why This Matters for Academic Opportunity

Test Prep Gurus programs are designed to help students:

• Improve SAT scores by a guaranteed 100+ points (our students average gains much higher)

• Raise ACT scores by a guaranteed 3+ points (our students average gains much higher)

• Unlock $10,000 to $250,000 in merit-based scholarships

• Stand out in competitive college admissions

By allowing families to use 529 plans for test prep, this change expands access to meaningful opportunities — no matter your zip code or income level.

This isn’t about privilege. It’s about preparation.

✅ How To Use Your 529 Plan for Test Prep (5 Easy Steps)

Here’s how to pay for your course with Test Prep Gurus — and get reimbursed tax-free:

Step 1: Enroll
Visit www.prepgurus.com and sign up for an SAT or ACT course or 1-on-1 package.

Step 2: Pay with a Credit Card
Complete checkout as usual. Be sure to save your receipt and confirmation email.

Step 3: Log in to Your 529 Plan Portal
Visit your state’s 529 provider (such as Ascensus, Vanguard, or Fidelity).

Step 4: Request a Reimbursement
Select the option to reimburse yourself for a qualified educational expense. Upload your Test Prep Gurus receipt if requested.

Step 5: Receive Your Tax-Free Funds
You’ll usually get reimbursed to your bank account within a few days.

🔔 Important: Make sure the purchase and reimbursement both occur in the same calendar year to remain compliant.

🤝 How Test Prep Gurus Supports Families Using 529 Funds

We’re making it easier than ever to maximize your 529 benefits. Here’s how:

• We provide itemized receipts labeled as “standardized test preparation”

• Our programs are designed to be 529-eligible under new federal guidelines

• Our team is happy to guide you through the reimbursement process if needed

🇺🇸 Giving More Students a Shot at Success

Standardized tests aren’t perfect — but they remain one of the few scalable academic tools that can dramatically expand opportunity.

A high SAT or ACT score can still:

• Change a student’s college trajectory

• Open the door to scholarships

• Help applicants stand out in a competitive process

This policy shift means more students can afford to prepare — and more doors will open as a result.

📌 Ready to Get Started?

You’ve saved for your child’s future. Now let’s make the most of it.

Head to https://www.prepgurus.com/contact, choose the right prep course, and use your 529 plan to get reimbursed — tax-free.

It’s a smart investment in your child’s education, college journey, and long-term success.

In Defense of a Fixed Mindset: Why Knowing Who You Are Can Help You Grow

I talk a lot about growth mindset in education and psychology—and for good reason. The belief that you can improve through effort, feedback, and persistence is one of the most empowering ideas of the modern era. It’s the foundation of deep learning, transformation, and high performance.

I’ve built a career—and a life—around this principle.

But today, I want to explore the other side of the coin. I want to offer a defense of the fixed mindset.

Yes, you read that right.

Because in our rush to celebrate growth, we’ve overlooked the value of certain fixed beliefs—especially those that are earned, chosen, and functional.

The Truth About Fixed Mindsets

In Carol Dweck’s original research, a fixed mindset is the belief that ability is static, talent is innate, and failure is a verdict. Taken to the extreme, this view can stifle growth, discourage risk-taking, and lead to shame when we fall short.

But here’s the thing: we all hold fixed beliefs. About who we are. About what we value. About what we’re willing to fight for.

And some of those beliefs serve us.

“I’m a visual thinker.”
“I’m a leader.”
“I’m someone who follows through.”

These aren’t limitations. They’re earned identities—narratives we’ve built through effort and experience. As Aristotle said, we are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.

Identity as a Foundation

You can’t wake up every morning rethinking your entire identity. That’s paralyzing. Fixed beliefs give us structure. They help us act decisively, commit to long-term goals, and build lasting relationships.

The danger isn’t in having a fixed mindset. The danger is in clinging to one that’s outdated, fear-based, or untested.

But when fixed beliefs are earned—when they come from lived experience—they become powerful anchors. They allow us to perform under pressure.

When I earned a perfect SAT score in graduate school, I wasn’t trying to prove I was smart. I was testing a hypothesis: could a “fixed” test be beaten with a growth mindset?

Yes—but only because I had a fixed belief that I was a strategic thinker. That belief, built over years of work, gave me confidence. It allowed me to execute like a pro.

The Best Performers Combine Both

When we work with students preparing for standardized tests, the highest performers share a mindset that blends both fixed and growth elements:

• “Yes, I’m smart. I can do this.”

• “And I’ll keep improving through deliberate effort.”

That’s the sweet spot. That’s where confidence meets humility.

The most successful people I’ve interviewed on The Nick Standlea Show don’t live at the extremes. They have firm convictions about who they are—and flexible strategies about how to improve.

As Zig Ziglar once said, “Be firm in your principles, but flexible in your methods.”

Or as one futurist put it: strong beliefs, loosely held.

That’s not weakness. That’s wisdom.

Final Thought

So here’s the takeaway: A fixed mindset isn’t always a flaw. When it’s based on earned identity and used strategically, it’s a strength. And when paired with a growth mindset, it becomes a foundation for thriving in a fast-changing world.

Know who you are. Stay open to who you’re becoming.

That’s not just good psychology. That’s how you thrive.

What Parents Wish They Knew Before College Admissions

If you're about to start the college admissions process, you're not alone.

We recently surveyed parents who just went through it, and they shared valuable insights—what worked, what didn’t, and what they wish they had known earlier.

The Biggest Challenges They Faced:

• Uncertainty about how to stand out in a competitive applicant pool

• Overwhelming complexity of the college application process

• Pressure to start preparing as early as freshman year of high school

• Concerns about affording college and navigating financial aid

• Worry that not submitting scores could hurt their child’s chances

What They Tried That Didn't Work:

• Waiting until senior year to start the college planning process

• Focusing solely on GPA and extracurriculars without considering tests

• Trying to control every aspect of the application process for their child

• Applying to too many "reach" schools without safety options

• Assuming "test-optional" means test scores don’t matter (spoiler: they do)

What They Wish They Had:

• A clear understanding of how colleges use test scores

• Generous financial aid or scholarship offers

• An admissions plan with a balanced list of safety, match, and reach schools

• Confidence in making the right decision about test prep and score submission

• Child takes ownership of the process while parents provide support

At Test Prep Gurus, we help families navigate this process with clarity and confidence. Your child should have every opportunity to stand out—whether that means submitting test scores or crafting a compelling application without them.

If you're ready to take the guesswork out of college admissions, let’s talk. Schedule a free consultation today.

Test-Optional Colleges Still Want Test Scores: Why Submitting SAT or ACT Scores Gives You an Edge

Test-Optional Colleges Still Want Test Scores: Why Submitting SAT or ACT Scores Gives You an Edge

In recent years, many universities adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to decide whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. But at Test Prep Gurus, we’ve been following the data closely, and the message is clear: even at test-optional schools, submitting a strong test score can give you a significant advantage. In fact, many top universities are reinstating testing requirements, highlighting the critical role standardized tests continue to play in college admissions.

Why Test-Optional Doesn’t Mean Test-Negligible

While it might seem that test-optional means test-unnecessary, the reality is different. Across the board, students who submit SAT or ACT scores are admitted at higher rates than those who don’t. As Nick Standlea, founder of Test Prep Gurus, points out, “At Georgetown, the admission rate with a test score is 7.5%, without a test score, it’s 3.9%. At Cornell, the admission rate with a test score is 12.7%, but only 4% without a test score.” This trend holds at most institutions that publish admissions data, showing that test scores still play a crucial role in distinguishing applicants.

Top Universities Reinstate Test Requirements

Several highly selective universities are reinstating SAT and ACT requirements, emphasizing the importance of these scores in predicting a student’s academic success:

• Johns Hopkins University: Starting with applicants for fall 2026, Hopkins will require SAT or ACT scores. Yvonne M. Romero da Silva, vice president for enrollment, explained, “Under a test-optional policy, those who provide test scores fared better in the application review process.” She also said “…The average first-year GPA of students who did not submit test scores was statistically similar to the average GPA of students whose submitted test scores were in the bottom quartile of the test score distribution.”

• Stanford University: Stanford will resume requiring SAT or ACT scores for applicants starting in fall 2025. This decision reflects the importance of standardized tests in predicting students’ academic performance, as confirmed by Stanford’s faculty Committee on Undergraduate Admission and Financial Aid.

• Rice University: Rice has long valued standardized tests, with Yvonne M. Romero da Silva stating, “We are therefore moving to recommend that students submit the testing they feel will showcase their strengths, beyond simply having a test-optional policy.”

• Naval Academy: The U.S. Naval Academy requires all candidates to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their admissions process, emphasizing the necessity of these scores in assessing student readiness.

• Cornell University: Cornell will reinstate its standardized testing requirement for students seeking admission in fall 2026, based on evidence from a multi-year study that highlighted the value of test scores in admissions decisions.

• Caltech: Starting with students applying for fall 2024, Caltech will require SAT or ACT scores, reaffirming the importance of testing in their highly selective admissions process.

• University of Texas at Austin: UT Austin is returning to requiring test scores beginning with the fall 2025 admissions cycle, citing data showing that students who submit scores perform better academically.

• Dartmouth College: Starting with the Class of 2029, Dartmouth will require SAT or ACT scores for U.S. applicants. The school will continue to super-score, meaning they will consider the highest result on individual sections of either exam.

• Brown University: Data from Brown reveals that test scores are more predictive of college GPA, college graduation %, job placement, and graduate school placement than high school GPA. In addition, some students from less-advantaged backgrounds opted not to submit scores, despite the fact that submitting scores would have increased their chances of admission. This unintended consequence has led Brown to reinstate test scores.

Why Test Scores Still Matter

As these universities shift back toward requiring or recommending SAT and ACT scores, the reasons are clear. Test scores provide a common measure that helps colleges compare students from different schools and backgrounds. Grades can vary in difficulty and standards, but a strong SAT or ACT score levels the playing field and helps admissions officers gauge a student’s academic potential.

Moreover, test scores remain a strong predictor of success in rigorous academic environments. As Brown University’s admissions team noted, “An applicant’s test scores are a strong predictor of a student’s performance once enrolled, and of their capacity to succeed in a rigorous academic environment.” These findings hold true across all subgroups, reinforcing the value of standardized tests as a reliable measure of student readiness.

Preparing for Success

At Test Prep Gurus, we understand how important standardized tests are to your college admissions journey. While test-optional policies may seem like an opportunity to skip the SAT or ACT, the data shows that submitting a strong test score can give you a significant advantage. Universities are moving back toward testing requirements, and students who submit scores are admitted at higher rates than those who don’t.

Our tailored SAT and ACT prep programs are designed to help you achieve your highest possible score and maximize your chances of admission to top-tier schools. Whether you’re targeting test-optional colleges or schools with test requirements, we’re here to help you succeed.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

The college admissions landscape is evolving, and staying informed is key to making the right decisions. Submitting SAT or ACT scores can open doors to more opportunities, even at test-optional schools. Contact Test Prep Gurus today to explore our comprehensive test prep options and gain the competitive edge you need to succeed in your college admissions journey.

Get Started Now! Contact Test Prep Gurus for SAT and ACT Prep Today!

Test Prep Gurus CEO featured in Spotlight Schools Article: "Skip the SAT?: Tackling the Changing Testing Requirements for College Admissions"

Link: Skip the SAT?: Tackling the Changing Testing Requirements for College Admissions

Test Prep CEO recently contributed to an article on navigating standardized testing in college admissions, providing insight into the value of standardized tests like the SAT and ACT in the college admissions process. He emphasized that these exams offer a common measure to help colleges compare students from different high schools and backgrounds, complementing high school grades, which can vary in difficulty and grading standards. He also shared data showing how having a test score can significantly boost a student's chances of admission at selective universities like Georgetown and Cornell. Students should also keep an eye on the UC System, which is currently examining the option to reinstate SAT/ACT scores in the near future.

Unlocking Success: Lessons from Test Prep Gurus That Last a Lifetime

Tommy Poletti, a former Test Prep Gurus student, drops in for a conversation with, Nick Standlea, CEO of Test Prep Gurus, to discuss how the unique strategies and learning principles taught during Tommy’s test prep program continue to influence his success today.

Tommy recounts his significant score improvement, from a 17 to a 27 on the ACT—a rare 10-point increase—thanks to Test Prep Gurus' unique approach. Rather than relying on rote memorization or traditional methods, the program focused on developing a growth mindset, self-testing, and using feedback as a tool for improvement. These strategies not only helped Tommy achieve his immediate goal of a 27 on the ACT to make him a more competitive applicant to Santa Clara University but became key elements in his success in college and now at USC Law School.

Prospective parents and students considering Test Prep Gurus should note the lasting impact of this approach. The learning techniques instilled in Tommy have carried him through academic challenges far beyond test prep, proving that Test Prep Gurus doesn’t only boost standardized test scores—they teach life skills that set students up for success well into the future.

Quotes from the Interview:

1. Growth Mindset: "Success isn’t about how smart you are; it’s about how hard you work... Anyone can reach any goal that they want to reach if they work for it."

2. Tell Yourself the Right Story: "Whether you think you can do it, or if you think you can’t, that will become a self-fulfilling prophecy."

3. Lean into Desirable Difficulties: "Struggle is key to long-term retention of concepts. If something comes easily, you're actually less likely to remember it long-term."

Timestamps:

0:00 – Introduction: How Tommy ended up at Test Prep Gurus

1:00 – Early struggles with the ACT

1:50 – Learning about the self-fulfilling prophecy

2:30 – Tommy’s ACT score improvement: From 17 to 27

3:45 – Overcoming frustration and learning the hard way

5:00 – Getting into Santa Clara University

6:00 – Applying lessons from Test Prep Gurus to law school

7:30 – The importance of a growth mindset and hard work

9:30 – Struggle as the key to long-term retention

11:45 – Self-testing and continuous improvement in learning

16:00 – Study strategies and staying organized in law school

20:00 – Feedback loops and learning from testing

27:30 – How standardized tests help build life skills

32:00 – Comparing law school to real-world law practice

35:00 – Incremental improvement: The 1% rule

39:00 – The importance of long-term goals and motivation

46:00 – Setting personal goals: Football and USC as motivation

53:00 – Tommy’s reflection on Test Prep Gurus and its lasting impact

58:00 – Encouraging young students: Enjoy the process and stay motivated

1:03:00 – College admissions: Subjectivity and luck

Optimize the college application process

In this conversation, we provide actionable steps for each year of high school, 9th through 12th grade, to help students make the best college admissions choices. We meticulously strategize each phase of high school with Jenn, a renowned private college counselor, professional member of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, and author of the best-selling book 'The Parent Compass' who supplements this episode with her valuable experiences and expertise.

Jenn stresses the significance of developing specific high school habits and the formative value of resilience and grit. We also delve into Jenn's book, 'The Parent Compass,' which offers a blueprint for maintaining healthy parent-child relationships during turbulent teenage years, personal goal-setting, tackling misconceptions about college entrance, and learning to foster a growth-oriented mindset.

We then transition steps to effectively prepare for college during sophomore year. Highlighting the importance of interesting activities, creating a testing timeline, reading for pleasure, choosing future courses, and showing 'demonstrated interest' at desired colleges, this episode provides comprehensive guidance for high school students to ambitiously prepare for college admissions.

During Junior year, Jenn describes the essentiality of keeping track of achievements throughout high school, the importance of financial conversations between parents and teenagers, the impact of test preparation, and strategic planning around merit aid.

For 12th grade, we break down all the steps associated with filling out applications, meeting deadlines, and the differences between Early Action, Early Decision, and Regular application deadlines.

Jennifer Curtis, a seasoned college admissions expert, throws light on the complexities of today's college admissions process. She elaborates on topics such as standard test scores, the nuances of 'test optional' applications, the benefit of independent educational consultants, and more. Gain critical information on tangible steps to reduce stress, face rejection, and understand the importance of early financial aid management.

Whether you're a student or a parent, this episode is a quintessential guide to navigating the often daunting world of college admissions.

Flow State: Psychology of optimal experience | "Your sense of self disappears" | Csikszentmihalyi

Explore the concept of 'flow'—the state of optimal experience. The book 'Flow' was written by Dr. Mike Csikszentmihalyi in 1990.

I worked for Dr. Mike for six years as a research associate (yes, I know he signed his books 'Mihaly,' but he always insisted I call him 'Mike') . He was an amazing mentor and friend and he is greatly missed. In honor of his birthday, I cleaned up the audio on a lecture he delivered on flow and added some visuals.

Dive Deeper: Discover the attributes of the flow state, such as intense focus, a sense of clarity, and the merging of action and awareness. Understand how deep engagement can lead to enhanced happiness and productivity. Learn about the benefits of being in flow, including increased creativity, better performance, and greater overall satisfaction in life.

Oh yeah, and with the right combination of skills and challenges, it’s possible to enter a flow state while preparing for and thriving on standardized exams.

Unlock Your Potential: How Ella Jumped 12 Points on the ACT to the top 1% nationwide

Are you ready to take your your SAT or ACT score to the next level?

 Meet Ella, a high school student from Massachusetts who transformed her ACT score from a 22 to an incredible 34—landing her in the top 1% of test-takers nationwide!

 In our latest video interview, Ella shares her inspiring journey with Test Prep Gurus’ personalized, 1-on-1 virtual tutoring. Discover how she overcame challenges, stayed motivated, and ultimately gained acceptance to her top-choice colleges, including Williams College and Amherst College.

Why should you watch this interview?

• Proven Strategies: Learn the steps Ella took to boost her ACT score by 12 points (strategies that transfer to the SAT as well).

• Overcoming Obstacles: Hear how she balanced test prep with her busy schedule and still achieved outstanding results.

• Virtual Success: Whether you're in-person or virtual, our 1-on-1 teachers can make a difference in your potential college options.

• Inspiration: If you're aiming for a score increase or feeling stuck, Ella’s story is a powerful reminder that you can achieve your goals with the right guidance and effort.

• Choices: Learn how test scores made the difference when she applied to elite colleges.

👉 Watch Ella's Success Story Now

At Test Prep Gurus, we believe in the power of personalized support to help every student reach their potential. Ella’s success is just one example of what’s possible with dedication and the right strategies. Ready to start your own journey to a higher ACT score? Let’s make it happen together.

P.S. Want to see results like Ella's? Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can help you achieve your test prep goals!