Forbes: The SAT Is Making A Comeback—Are You Prepared?

Two excellent articles that highlight the possible future of standardized testing in college admissions:

1) NY Times: The Misguided War on the SAT: Colleges have fled standardized tests, on the theory that they hurt diversity. That’s not what the research shows.

2) Forbes: The SAT Is Making A Comeback—Are You Prepared?

Highlights from two articles on college admissions testing in the NY Times and Forbes:

“Just getting straight A’s is not enough information for us to know whether the students are going to succeed or not.” M.I.T. Dean of Admission Stuart Schmill

“Standardized test scores are a much better predictor of academic success than high school grades.” Christina Paxson, president of Brown University

“It strengthens the argument that the disparities in SAT scores are a symptom, not a cause, of inequality in the U.S.” Raj Chetty, Harvard economics professor

“Once we brought the test requirement back, we admitted the most diverse class that we ever had in our history.” Stuart Schmill, admissions dean, MIT

“Test scores have vastly more predictive power than is commonly understood in the popular debate,” John Friedman, economics professor at Brown

“The SAT just tells you a lot about how well prepared students are for college.” Bruce Sacerdote and Michele Tine of Dartmouth

“When you don’t have test scores, the students who suffer most are those with high grades at relatively unknown high schools, the kind that rarely send kids to the Ivy League.” David Deming, Harvard Economist

Given this new research, and college’s ongoing efforts to make admissions more fair and transparent, we expect the importance of standardized testing will only rise in the coming years.

25 Automatic scholarships based on SAT/ACT scores

Highlighted College:

Texas State University

 President’s Honor Scholarship: $48,000

Requirements: 1420+ SAT or 32+ ACT and top 25% of graduating class or IB diploma or AP Capstone Diploma

Renewal criteria:

3.25 Cumulative Texas State GPA

Complete 28 passing Texas State hours/year (fall/spring)

Undergraduate status

Texas State Achievement Scholarship: $24,000 to $32,000

Requirements: 1160 to 1410 SAT or 24 to 31 ACT and top 25% of graduating class or IB diploma or AP Capstone Diploma

(Renewable pending same criteria as above)

Smaller awards are available for lower ACT and GPA combinations:

Scholarships based on merit, awarded for academic or other forms of excellence (NOT need-based), can significantly decrease the cost of college attendance. These scholarships often require essays or other submissions, but some are awarded automatically based on your GPA or SAT/ACT scores.

Many colleges offer automatic scholarships based on test scores. These typically require a combination of SAT or ACT scores and a minimum GPA.

*Remember to also consider the National Merit Scholarship. High scores on the junior year PSAT can lead to substantial scholarships. Many colleges provide additional scholarships to National Merit Semi-Finalists. For example, Boston University's $25,000 award for PSAT National Merit Semi-Finalists.

Click here to see a list of 181 scholarships students can earn based on their 11th-grade PSAT score.

Automatic scholarships based on SAT/ACT scores are available at various institutions, including:

1. Alabama State University 

Presidential Academic Scholarship: Full Ride

Requirements: 3.76 GPA and 26 ACT or 1240 SAT

Academic Excellence Scholarship: Full Tuition Plus (tuition plus additional fees and books)

Requirements: 3.51 GPA and 22 ACT or 1160 SAT

Academic Incentive Scholarship: Full Tuition Plus (tuition plus $500 for books)

Requirements: 3.00 GPA and 20 ACT or 1020 SAT 

2. Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University

George W. Gore: Amount varies

Requirements: 1330 SAT or 29 ACT (including a 650 on the SAT math section or 29 on the ACT Math subject area)

Presidential Special Scholarship: Amount varies

Requirements: 1220 SAT or 27 ACT (including a 600 on the SAT math section or 27 on the ACT Math subject area)

3. Florida Gulf Coast University

President’s Gold: $5,000 per year

Requirements: 3.9 GPA and 1320 SAT; Florida residency

President’s Silver: $3,000 per year

Requirements: 3.5 GPA and 1220 SAT; Florida residency

Blue and Green Scholars (non-residents): $15,000 per year

Requirements: 3.9 GPA and 1320 SAT

Blue and Green Directors (non-residents): $10,000 per year

Requirements: 3.5 GPA and 1220 SAT

4. Georgia State University

Presidential Scholarship: Up to $28,303 per year

Second Century: $3,000 per year

1913 Founders: $2,000 per year

GSU Excellence: $1,000 per year

GSU Achievement: $1,000 one time

GSU Foundation: $500 one time

Eligibility requirements are not available. However, the school offers several automatic scholarships based on academic excellence on a first-come, first-served basis.

5. Howard University

HU Presidential Scholarship

HU Founders Scholarship

HU Capstone Scholarship

HU Leadership Scholarship

HU Opportunity Grant

HU Access Grant

Eligibility requirements and award amounts are not available. However, Howard University’s merit-based awards are determined based on students’ SAT/ACT scores and high school GPA.

6. Idaho State University

Presidential: $7,500 per year

Requirements: 3.0+ GPA and 32 ACT or 1420 SAT; Idaho residency

Smaller awards are available for lower ACT and GPA combinations, ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 per year. The merit-based scholarships at Idaho State University are for in-state students only.

7. Louisiana Tech University

Many scholarships are available starting at $2,000 for 23-24 ACT and 3.0-3.749 GPA. The highest scholarships available is the:

Presidential: $9,000 or $9,500

Requirements: 33+ ACT or 1450-1600 SAT with a GPA of 3.0 to 3.749 GPA for $9,000 or 3.75 to 4.0 for $9,500

Smaller awards are available for lower ACT and GPA combinations.

8. Michigan Technological University

Presidential Scholars Program: $1,000 to $5,500 per year 

The school automatically awards students based on a combination of their high school academic record, including cumulative GPA and SAT or ACT score. The minimum GPA required for scholarship consideration is a 3.50. The minimum eligible standardized test score is a 1110 on the SAT or 22 on the ACT. You can estimate your award amount on the scholarship page.

 

9. Ohio State University

Maximus, Provost, and Trustees Scholarships: $1,000 to $3,000 per year

National Buckeye Scholarship (out-of-state): $13,500 per year ($54,000 in total)

Eligibility requirements are not available. However, the school seeks to admit highly competitive students, as demonstrated through grade point average, class rank, the rigor of high school curriculum, and ACT or SAT scores.

10. Texas State University

President’s Honor Scholarship: $48,000

Requirements: 1420+ SAT or 32+ ACT and top 25% of graduating class or IB diploma or AP Capstone Diploma

Renewal criteria:

3.25 Cumulative Texas State GPA

Complete 28 passing Texas State hours/year (fall/spring)

Undergraduate status

Texas State Achievement Scholarship: $24,000 to $32,000

Requirements: 1160 to 1410 SAT or 24 to 31 ACT and top 25% of graduating class or IB diploma or AP Capstone Diploma

(Renewable pending same criteria as above)

Smaller awards are available for lower ACT and GPA combinations.

11. Texas Tech University

Annual award amounts pay one-half toward fall and one-half toward spring terms. If you are a non-resident awarded a Presidential Scholarship, you will also qualify to pay in-state tuition.

12. Tuskegee University

Distinguished Presidential: Full tuition, room/board, and $800 books

Requirements: 3.7 GPA and 1300-1420+ SAT or 28-32+ ACT

University Merit: Full tuition and $800 books

Requirements: 3.5 GPA and 1200-1290 SAT or 25-27 ACT

Additional scholarships are available for up to 2.8 GPA and 1030 SAT or 20 ACT.

13. University of Alabama – Huntsville

UAH Presidential (in-state): Full tuition and housing

Requirements: 4.0+ GPA and 36 ACT or 1600 SAT

UAH Presidential (out-of-state): Full tuition and housing

Requirements: 4.0+ GPA and 36 ACT or 1600 SAT

Additional scholarships are available for GPAs starting at 3.00 and 25 ACT or 1200 SAT.

14. University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa

Presidential Scholar: Full Tuition/$28,000 per year for out-of-state residents

Requirements: 3.50+ GPA, 30-36 ACT or 1360-1600 SAT

Presidential Elite Scholar: Full Tuition plus 1-year housing, $1k stipend-4 years,$2k summer research/study abroad, $500/yr books

Requirements: 4.0 GPA, 36 ACT or 1600 SAT

Additional scholarships are available for GPAs starting at 3.00 and test scores of at least 27 ACT or 1260 SAT.

15. University of Arizona

Resident Wildcat Awards: $750 to $12,500

Requirements: The highest awards go to students with 4.0+ GPA and 1420+ SAT scores

Non-Resident Arizona Awards: $1,000-$32,000

Requirements: The highest awards go to students with 4.0+ GPA and 1420+ SAT scores

16. University of Louisiana – Monroe

President’s Distinguished: $10,000 + Study Abroad + iPad

Requirements: 3.7 GPA and 33-36 ACT

Smaller awards are available for lower ACT and GPA combinations.

17. University of Mississippi

Residents: $1,000 to $9,072

Requirements: 3.0 GPA and 23 ACT or SAT equivalent

Non-Residents: $1,000 to $9,072 plus up to $16,272 towards non-resident fee

Requirements: 3.0 GPA and 25 ACT or SAT equivalent

18. University of Missouri

Various scholarships are automatically awarded to applicants with certain SAT/ACT and GPA combinations. The highest scholarship award for in-state applicants is $7,200 per academic year. Awards for out-of-state applicants can reach $22,500 per year. Smaller awards are available for lower SAT/ACT and GPA combinations.

19. Utah State University

Residents: From $1,000 per year to 100% resident tuition & student fees for four years

Requirements: Awards granted based on a combination of SAT/ACT scores and GPA

Non-Residents: From $11,500 per year to 100% tuition & student fees for four years

Requirements: Awards granted based on a combination of SAT/ACT scores and GPA

 

20. University of Tennessee

Residents: $9,000

Requirements: 1490 SAT or 34 ACT, plus a 3.8 GPA

Non-Residents: $18,000

Requirements: 1490 SAT or 34 ACT, plus a 3.0 GPA

Smaller awards are available for lower SAT/ACT and GPA combinations.

 

21. University of Texas – Arlington

Presidential Honors Scholarship: $12,000

Requirements: 1500 SAT or 34 ACT and in the top 5% of high school class

Presidential Scholarship: $10,000

Requirements: 1400 SAT or 31 ACT and in the top 15% of high school class

Maverik Academic Scholarship: $1,000 to $8,000

Requirements: 1280 SAT or 27 ACT and in the top 25% of high school class

 

22. University of Kentucky

Provost Scholarship (in-state): $2,500 to $5,000

Requirements: 3.30 GPA and 26 ACT/1230 SAT for $2,500 or 3.30 GPA and 28 ACT/1300 SAT for $5,000

Bluegrass Spirit (out-of-state): $8,000 to $12,500

Requirements: 3.00 GPA and 25 ACT/1200 SAT for $8,000, 3.50 GPA and 25 ACT/1200 SAT for $10,000, or 3.50 GPA and 30 ACT/1360 SAT for $12,500

 

23. University of Wyoming

The Cowboy Commitment: $6,500 per year

Requirements: Have a combination of a 3.4-4.0 GPA and 1390+ SAT/31+ ACT. See this sliding scale to determine where your combination of GPA and test scores falls.

Smaller awards are available for lower SAT/ACT and GPA combinations, ranging from $500 to $3,500 per year. The Cowboy Commitment is for in-state students only. Non-resident students will receive the Brown and Gold Commitment, ranging from $2,500 to $12,750.

24. Middle Tennessee State University

Century Scholarship: $6,000 per academic year

Requirements: 34-36 ACT or SAT equivalent and 3.5+ GPA

Lightning Scholarship: $3,000 per academic year

Requirements: 30-33 ACT or SAT equivalent and 3.5+ GPA

Blue Raider Scholarship: $2,500 per academic year

Requirements: 25-29 ACT or SAT equivalent and 3.5+ GPA

Future Alumni Scholarship: $1,500 per academic year

Requirements: 22-24 ACT or SAT equivalent and 3.5+ GPA

25. University of Oklahoma

Various scholarships for in-state and out-of-state applicants, ranging between $8,000 to $60,000 for four academic years. The minimum requirements for the smallest scholarship are a combination of a 24-27 ACT/1160-1290 SAT and either a 3.25 GPA or top 10% class rank.

Do SAT and ACT scores help in college admissions?

The graph above shows admission percentages at a variety of colleges when applying with or without SAT or ACT scores. The grey bars indicate the admission rates without scores, and the red bars indicate the admission rates with scores.

While over 90% of 4-year accredited colleges are “test-optional,” including a competitive SAT or ACT score will often increase a student’s chances of admission.

•“Test scores are the single most effective factor in predicting a student’s first-year and four-year grade point average.” – Yale

•“Scores help differentiate amongst applicants with similarly high grades, and also help students who do not have equitable access to high-level courses demonstrate college readiness.” - MIT

•“While high school grades are a strong predictor for academic success in college, the combination of grades and standardized test scores has been shown to strengthen that prediction…we still find value in scores if you choose to send them.” - Northwestern

Let's delve into the data-backed reasons why achieving commendable scores on these standardized tests can significantly enhance your chances of securing admission to a variety of colleges.

1. Universal Benchmark for Comparison:

📊 Data Insight: According to a report by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), standardized test scores provide colleges with a standardized benchmark for comparing students from diverse academic backgrounds. This allows for a fair and objective evaluation process.

2. Demonstrating Academic Competence:

📊 Data Insight: The College Board notes that high ACT and SAT scores serve as indicators of a student's academic prowess and readiness for college-level coursework. A strong performance suggests a solid foundation in core subjects.

3. Influencing College Rankings:

📊 Data Insight: U.S. News & World Report indicates that standardized test scores are often factored into college rankings. Higher average scores contribute positively to a college's standing, making it more attractive to prospective students and enhancing its overall reputation.

4. Merit-Based Scholarships and Financial Aid:

📊 Data Insight: Many colleges use ACT and SAT scores as criteria for awarding merit-based scholarships. Students with exceptional scores may find themselves eligible for substantial financial aid, easing the burden of tuition costs.

5. Meeting Admission Requirements:

📊 Data Insight: A vast majority of colleges still maintain ACT/SAT score requirements for admission. According to the National Center for Fair & Open Testing, even with the rise of test-optional policies, a considerable number of institutions continue to consider these scores in their admissions decisions.

6. Holistic Admissions Consideration:

📊 Data Insight: The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that while the landscape is evolving with more colleges adopting test-optional policies, ACT and SAT scores still contribute to the holistic evaluation of applications. They provide additional data points for assessing a student's overall academic profile.

7. Competitive Advantage in Admissions:

📊 Data Insight: Research from the Educational Testing Service (ETS) suggests that students with strong ACT and SAT scores have a competitive edge in the admissions process, especially in institutions where a large number of applicants vie for limited spots.

In conclusion, the influence of ACT and SAT scores on college admissions rates is backed by substantial data. While the shift towards test-optional policies is a notable trend, standardized test scores remain powerful tools for students aspiring to secure admission to a diverse array of colleges. It's essential for prospective college-goers to recognize the weight these scores carry and strategically prepare to showcase their academic aptitude. 🎓✨ #CollegeAdmissions #StandardizedTesting #HigherEducationSuccess

When Should I Prep for the ACT or SAT?

This downloadable PDF guide shows the three common paths to help you organize your testing plan and reach your goals for college and beyond.

Three paths to organize your ACT/SAT testing plan

Download the flier to see the three testing pathways.

If you need additional help, contact us through the “free mock ACT or SAT” button to schedule a free consultation to build a plan customized to your individual goals.

It hurts when colleges reject you

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Digital PSAT and SAT Verbal Solutions

Learn how to tackle the Digital PSAT and SAT verbal problems! These are the techniques we use to prep our 1-on-1 students. See a premier teacher in action and learn how he thinks through digital SAT verbal problems and solves them in real time.

Want to score higher on SAT and ACT math sections? Math Formulas We Wish Every Student Had Memorized

Want to score higher on SAT and ACT math sections? Memorize these formulas before you begin prepping. 

 

1. Average or mean = Sum of values / Number of values

Ex: (10 + 12 + 14 + 16) / 4 = 13

2. Probability = Target outcomes / Total outcomes

Used to calculate the chances of something occurring from a set of possible outcomes.

Ex: A jar contains five blue marbles, five red marbles, and ten white marbles. What is the probability of picking a red marble at random?

5 / 20 = .25 or 25%

3. Quadratic Formula: x = −b ± √b²-4ac/2a

Used for determining the x-intercepts of a quadratic (parabolic) equation.

Ex: A = 1, B = -4, C = 4

• x = -4 ± √4² – 4 (1)(4) / 2(1)

• x = -4 ± √ 16 – 4(4) / 2

• x = -4 ± √16 – 16 / 2

• x = -4 ± √ 0 / 2

• x = -4 / 2

• x = -2

 

4. Distance Formula: d=√(x₁ – x₂)² + (y₁ – y₂)²

Ex. Find the distance between points (6, 6) and (2, 3)

• d=√(6 – 2)² + (6 – 3)²

• d=√(4)² + (3)²

• d=√16 + 3

• d=√25

• d = 5

5. Slope Formula: Slope = y₂ – y₁ /  x₂ – x₁

Calculate the slope (angle) of a line that connects two points on a plane.

Ex: Coordinates = (-2, -1) (4, 3)

• s = 3 – (-1) / 4 – (-2)

• s = 4 / 6

• s = 2 / 3

6. Slope Intercept: y=mx+b

Formula the defines a line on a plane, given a known slope and y-intercept.

Ex: Slope = 2, Intercept point (0,3)

• y = 2x+3

7. Midpoint Formula: (x₁+x₂) / 2, (y₁+y₂) / 2

Calculates the midpoint between to points on a plane.

Ex: Find the midpoint between (-1, 2) and (3, -6)

• (-1 + 3) / 2, (2 + -6) / 2

• 2 / 2, -4 / 2

• Midpoint (1, -2)

 

8. Area of Triangle: area = (1/2) (base) (height)

Calculate the total area within a triangle based on the lengths of the sides.

Ex: Base = 5, Height = 8

• a = 1/2 (5)(8)

• a = 1/2 (40)

• a = 20

9. Pythagorean Theorem: a²+b²=c²

Used to calculate the length of an unknown side of a right triangle, given two sides are known.

Ex: a = 3, b = 4

• c² = 3² + 4²

• c² = 9 + 16

• c² = 25

• c = √25

• c = 5

10. Area of Rectangle: area = length x width

Calculates the total area within a rectangle shape.

Ex: length = 5, width = 2

• a = 5 x 2

• a = 10

11. Area of Parallelogram: area = base x height

Calculates the total area within a parallelogram.

Ex: base = 6, height = 12

• a = 6 x 12

• a = 72

12. Area of Circle: π * r²

Calculates the total area within a circle.

Ex: radius = 4

• a = π x 4²

• a = π x 16

• a = 50.24

13. Circumference of Circle: circumference = 2π *  r

Calculate the length of the outline of a circle.

Ex: radius = 7

• c = 2π x 7

• c = 43.98

14. Sine (SOH): Sine = opposite / hypotenuse

A trigonometric identity that represents the relative sizes of the sides of a triangle and can be used to calculate unknown sides or angles of the triangle.

Ex: opposite = 2.8, hypotenuse = 4.9

• s = 2.8 / 4.9

• s = 0.57

15. Cosine (CAH): Cosine = adjacent / hypotenuse

A trigonometric identity that represents the relative sizes of the sides of a triangle and can be used to calculate unknown sides or angles of the triangle.

Ex: adjacent = 11, hypotenuse = 13

• c = 11 / 13

• c = 0.85

16. Tangent (TOA): Tangent = opposite / adjacent

A trigonometric identity represents the relative sizes of the sides of a triangle and can be used to calculate unknown sides or angles of the triangle.

Ex: opposite = 15, adjacent = 8

• t = 15 / 8

• t = 1.87

At Test Prep Gurus we teach students how to raise their ACT and SAT scores so they can reach their goals for college and beyond.

It all starts with 3 steps:

1. Complete mock ACT and SAT exams.

2. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to review your exam results.

3. Create a 1-on-1 test prep plan to reach your goals for college and beyond.

Digital PSAT Webinar on September 13th, 2023

Click below to join us on September 13th for our digital PSAT webinar! 

We're break down the changes coming on the digital PSAT exam and new strategies for how to tackle the material to help your student score higher! 

Winning scholarships with high PSAT scores

All of us at Test Prep Gurus hope this newsletter finds you well and thriving!

We're excited to share some insights on a topic that can significantly impact your family's financial future: winning scholarships with high PSAT scores.

High PSAT scores can unlock a variety of scholarships, such as Boston University's 20+ Trustee and Presidential scholarships that range up to $87,000+/year?

Click here to see a list of 181 scholarships students can earn based on their 11th-grade PSAT score.

(A note of appreciation to Les Mathew of The Extra Mile College Admissions for curating this collection of National Merit Scholarships available at more than 180 colleges, provided as a free and accessible resource.)

Details on The PSAT:

Students typically take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) in October of their sophomore and junior year of high school.

 This test is usually administered in October, but it's important to check with your school or educational institution for specific dates and registration details, as they may vary based on location and school policies.

 Taking the PSAT provides students with a valuable opportunity to practice for the SAT, assess their academic strengths and weaknesses, and potentially qualify for National Merit Scholarship recognition, or any of the scholarships listed above.

Maximize PSAT Scholarship Potential:

Preparation is Key. The PSAT will be completely different this year! Students who understand the new test format, content, and time constraints will have an advantage over those that don't.

Reach out to us today to schedule 1-on-1 lessons to familiarize your student with the new digital PSAT.

Other Scholarships Based on SAT and ACT Scores:

For students who don't qualify as National Merit Semi-Finalist, don't worry, there are still plenty of scholarship opportunities based on your SAT or ACT scores!

In fact, many colleges still require SAT and ACT scores to qualify for their merit-scholarships. Here are a few examples:

Georgia Institute of Technology
SAT Required
SAT: 1500+ 

Godbold Family Foundation
Up to Full tuition ($31,370 per year)

Texas Christian University
SAT or ACT Recommended
ACT: 30-34+
SAT: 1360-1500+
Founders'/TCU/Faculty/Dean's/Chancellor's 
$12,000-full tuition ($57,130 over four years)

Santa Clara University
SAT or ACT Recommended

ACT: 30+
SAT: 1400+
Johnson Scholar
Full tuition ($58,587)

University of Southern California
SAT or ACT Required
National Merit Finalist
Presidential
Half Tuition ($31,734 per year)

UMass Dartmouth
SAT or ACT Required
ACT: 32+
SAT: 1450+
University Commonwealth Scholarship
Tuition/Fees ($30,992)

Vanderbilt University
SAT or ACT Recommended
Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholars
Full tuition + one summer stipend ($58,130 minimum)

Here's to a year filled with learning, growth, and scholarship success!

The Nick Standlea Podcast

Conversations with exciting individuals on Learning, Health, Wealth, and Education.

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify

"They took this kid who was paralyzed by tests, and they changed him."

Hear from Diana Stark, Cognitive Behavioral Therapist and parent of a student at Orange County School of the Arts on how her son overcame severe testing anxiety on the ACT.

(On your phone, view in “full screen” for the vertical video).

Growth Mindset : Don't Tell Kids They're "Smart"

What is a "Superscore" on the ACT or SAT?

Click above to see our video on “superscoring” an ACT or SAT.

New Digital PSAT and SAT

The digital adaptive PSAT and SAT explained in a whiteboard video by Nick Standlea, CEO of Test Prep Gurus, and renowned expert on college admissions testing expert.

The new digital test contains major changes from the paper-based SAT, and it is important to understand how it works in order to prepare for the test.

Structure: There are two sections -- Reading and Writing, and Math. Each section is made up of two modules. In the first module, students will answer a mix of easy, medium, and hard questions. Based on their performance in the first module, students will be given either easier or harder questions in the second module. This process continues until the test is complete.

The new exams are adaptive because they adjust the difficulty of the questions based on a student's performance. This means that students who do well on the first module will be given harder questions in the second module, and students who do not do as well will be given easier questions. This helps to ensure that all students are challenged, regardless of their skill level.

The new digital tests are also shorter than the paper-based PSAT and SAT. The total test time for the PSAT and SAT is now 2 hours, 14 minutes, which is roughly 45 minutes shorter than the paper-based SAT.

Here are some additional tips for preparing for the digital SAT:

Take practice tests.

The best way to prepare for the digital SAT is to take practice tests. This will help you to get familiar with the format of the test and the types of questions that are asked.

Become Familiar with the Format.

The digital SAT is a computer-based test, so it is important to learn how to use the digital interface. This includes things like how to navigate the test, how to type your answers, and how to use the embedded calculator.

Manage your time wisely.

The digital SAT is a shorter test than the paper-based SAT, so it is important to manage your time wisely. Be sure to pace yourself and to answer all of the questions.

Stay calm and focused.

The digital SAT can be a challenging test, but it is important to stay calm and focused. If you start to feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you can do it.

We hope this video has been helpful. Good luck on your PSAT and SAT!

Do ACT & SAT Scores Help in College Admissions? What the data tells us will suprise you.

PSAT Scoreback Webinar for Irvine Unified School District (Test Prep Gurus)

College admissions testing expert, Nick Standlea, CEO of Test Prep Gurus, discusses PSAT, SAT, and ACT scores, and how to plan ahead for college. 

Specific issues include:

• Updates on PSAT, SAT, and ACT testing for 9th, 10th and 11th grades,

• Updates on how colleges will use the ACT and SAT in the future,

• What students and parents need to do today to be ready to apply to college in the future,

• The Digital SAT

• How to position your student for success when they apply to colleges,

• Changes to UC, Cal State, and admission requirements at other colleges,

• What “Test Optional” really means

Nick Standlea, Test Prep Gurus, CEO

www.prepgurus.com

After earning a perfect score on the SAT, Nick founded Test Prep Gurus with the mission of using standardized tests to teach broader life skills for college and beyond. Over the last ten years, Test Prep Gurus has helped thousands of students to improve their scores by hundreds of points, without sacrificing their sanity. Today the firm is a thought-leader in SAT and ACT preparation and works with students across America and around the world.

Are you worried about admission to USC?

I recently sat down with one of our parents who was extremely anxious over her son's prospects of being admitted to the University of Southern California.

Despite his excellent profile -- he had strong grades (4.1 at a great high school) and had posted an outstanding ACT score (top 5% of the country) -- her perception was that this wouldn't be nearly enough.

She wanted to add as many AP courses as possible to her son's upcoming Senior year.

The parent went so far as to quote a number of admissions statistics that she had gleaned from the internet, including the following:

1. USC’s acceptance rate last year was below 12%.

2. Three out of four students who were admitted to USC last year scored 30 or higher on the ACT, and one out of four scored a 35 or 36 (out of 36).

3. 25% of students who were admitted to USC last year scored 1350 or higher on the SAT, and 75% scored 1530 or higher (out of 1600).

4. The unweighted average GPA of an admitted student was 3.91.

5. Every year USC receives more than 69,000 applications for fewer than 8,500 spots.

These were facts. They were true. But...

...the critical piece of the puzzle that she was missing was that a student's statistics (GPA, AP courses, SAT/ACT scores) are far from the only factors that are considered in an admissions decision at a selective college.

USC practices holistic admissions -- in short, this means they look at a lot more than just the numbers. In fact, at the majority of selective colleges, it is safe to say that while grades and SAT/ACT scores are obviously quite important, they are far from being the ONLY important factors.

It often works as follows: once a student is in the competitive range of standardized test scores and GPA at a given school (for instance, 50% of USC admits score between 30-34 on the ACT), the actual decision is often made based on qualitative measures. These qualitative measures include essays, outside interests, the student's ability to express a unique point of view, the possession of a unique skill set, or perhaps a track record of intellectual curiosity in an area of study that fits with the school's offerings.

Naturally, we all want the best for our children. But what the student in this particular story needed to give him the best possible opportunity to gain entrance to one of his top choice schools wasn't necessarily to add more AP classes to his schedule (he had already taken plenty in areas of study that he truly enjoyed).

Instead, he needed to take the necessary time to focus his energy on the process of writing unique personal statements, asking the right people for letters of recommendation, and crafting interesting applications.

I share this story because I know that many parents experience similar levels of anxiety over their child's prospects of gaining admission to a top college.

However, it's important to remember that the reality is that selective colleges aren't often wowed by students who only have high GPAs/standardized test scores -- what they are looking for are interesting students.

To sum up--

Do SAT/ACT scores and grades matter? Of course they do.

Are they the only measures that matter? Not by a long shot.

What always matters? Being an interesting individual.

So while the scaffolding of an excellent college application requires a solid foundation (GPA, SAT or ACT scores, AP classes, etc.), what really sets top-tier students apart from their peers is a dedication to offering something original and honing their own unique sense of self.

It's harder than ever for students to stand out when they apply to college. Strong ACT or SAT scores will make them leap out from the pack. Test Prep Gurus teaches students how to raise ACT and SAT scores so they can reach their goals for college and beyond.  

The path to your dream college starts with 3 easy steps:

1) Complete free mock ACT and SAT exams.

2) Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to review your exam results.

3) Create a 1-on-1 test prep plan to reach your goals for college and beyond.

Why Should Students Be Encouraged to Set Goals for the Future?

SMART goal setting is the process of identifying future objectives that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It has been shown to result in increased focus, motivation, accountability, performance, personal development, and a sense of accomplishment.

There are several studies that demonstrate the importance of goal setting. One of the most well-known is a study by Edwin A. Locke and Gary P. Latham, two leading researchers in the field of goal setting and motivation. Their study, published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, found that individuals who set specific, difficult goals for themselves performed better than those who set easy or no goals at all. They also found that people who received feedback on their progress toward their goals performed better than those who did not receive feedback.

However, it's important to keep in mind that goal setting alone is not enough, and that it must be combined with other strategies such as planning, commitment, and persistence to achieve success.

Test preparation ties in well with SMART goal setting —

Specific: When we work with students, we help them to focus on specific goals for the future to increase their motivation. We start with questions such as:

“Who do you want to be in the future and what type of work sounds interesting?” and “What are some things you would like to accomplish in the future?”

From there, we backtrack to “What colleges might help propel you toward becoming that person and doing those things?”

Then we move on to “What grades and scores will you need to be competitive at those colleges?”

By setting specific, personal goals, students know why their putting the work into a test prep program and are all the more successful for it.

Measurable: For all the drawbacks of standardized exams, one of the upsides is that they are inherently measurable. When students put in the work with seasoned test prep professionals, their scores are going to go up — and best of all, they can see their objective improvement in real-time with each practice exam they take. In test prep, success builds on success, creating a virtuous cycle for the future.

Attainable: One of the keys to earning huge improvements on the ACT or SAT, is to set small goals within the larger goals. It can be daunting to set a goal to improve 5 composite points on the ACT (equal to +200 points on the SAT). A more effective approach might be to aim to improve by one composite point every time you take a monthly mock exam. Every time you improve, even by a single point, celebrate the victory! After five months of small victories, you’ll hit your larger goal of a five-point improvement (+200 on the SAT).

Relevant: Once you have an idea of colleges you might want to attend, and what scores will be required to be competitive, the test process becomes obviously relevant to achieving your goals for the future. Suddenly, ACT or SAT prep doesn’t feel like extra homework, it feels like actively working to achieve your dreams.

Time-bound: It’s important to create your test prep programs with specific official exams in mind. When a student knows what they’re working for, how to achieve it, and when it has to be done, there is often no holding them back.

If you’re interested in learning more about creating a 1-on-1 test prep plan with one of our Directors, contact us below.

College Admission Secrets -- Interview with former Dean of Admissions at Harvey Mudd College

We have exciting news! 

Our CEO, Nick Standlea, recently sat down for a conversation with a legend in the world of college admissions. 

Deren Finks is the former Dean of Admission and Financial Aid at Harvey Mudd College (one of the five Claremont Colleges).

In the interview Nick picks Deren's brain on a variety of topics, including:

• How to craft a personal statement that will catch the attention of selective colleges

• The role of standardized test scores in the new landscape of test-optional colleges

• How families can maximize their financial aid in scholarships and grants

We hope you enjoy the interview!

Topics Covered:

0:00 Introduction of Deren Finks, former Dean of Admission and Financial Aid at Harvey Mudd College (one of the five Claremont Colleges)

2:02 What excites you about being a college counselor?

4:25 Tell me about a student that surprised you...

10:42 The #1 mistake kids make applying to college

15:53 How does college admissions work?

26:48 How do the personal statement, letters of rec, grades, scores, activities, etc., come together to create a narrative about a student?

32:05 How to ask for letters of recommendation?

40:26 How is the admissions process different at a large public university such as UCLA?

41:40 How are ACT and SAT scores used in college admissions today?

47:47 How has college admissions changed in the past 10 or 20 years?

54:04 Financial Aid and the cost of college today

Perfect ACT Score, Mira Costa High School Junior, R.A. !!!

Congratulations to to Mira Costa Junior, R.A., who worked with us this Summer and earned a perfect 36 on the July ACT!

“She worked very hard, which is always the key ingredient. In the last lesson, I couldn’t find a math question that she wasn’t able to solve, so I knew a perfect score was possible. I’m so excited that she executed under pressure. Way to go!”

• R.A.’s Math and Science Instructor

“She trusted the techniques and spent the necessary time to make them second nature. There is nothing more satisfying to me as a teacher to see a student reach their potential!”

• R.A.’s Verbal Instructor

Click below to learn more about preparing your son or daughter for the ACT or SAT