No one likes taking the SAT's. It is almost a four hour test that claims to measure what is taught in high school and what is needed to succeed in college. However, many people debate whether or not the SAT really is an accurate measure of intelligence or skills. Still, an entrance exam (either the ACT or the SAT) is absolutely necessary for 95% of the colleges applied to. According to U.S. News and World Report, two thirds of the student applying to test optional schools still submit their standardized test scores. Some of the more progressive and liberal institutions weigh the high school experiences and college essay more highly than the standardized tests, but most institutions still want it.

All public high school students are required to take the SAT's in the Spring of their Junior year. This year the test is scheduled for April 14th. In October, before Juniors take the SAT, they should have taken the PSAT, which is similar to the SAT. The PSAT gives a score and percentages just as they would receive for the SAT, but the scores do not go on school records.  The PSAT is just a prediction of how they will fare on the SAT. It may guide students to decide how much SAT preparation that they will need and it will help to determine the areas that one needs to focus on when prepping for the real thing. 

The Study Hall is currently offering a 30 minute free PSAT Analysis for all sophomores and juniors to help students make sense of their scores. 

These entrance exams are not worth obsessing over. Students should do the best they can to prepare fully for the test so nothing comes as a surprise. If one is nervous about the SAT, they may want to enroll in either group or one-on-one SAT Prep program. Students are known to earn better scores after being tutored, upwards of 200 points or more, are more confident about the test, and learn skills that transfer over to all aspects of academic testing during prep.

If you are applying to college and you are nervous about your scores, preparing will be a sound investment. Call The Study Hall to set up a free PSAT Analysis or for more information at 236-3949 or email rockport@thestudyhall.com.