As soon as SAT or ACT scores are released to students, my office is packed with young people who want only one thing! They want to register to retake the test.
Many students believe that just by sitting for the test again, the score will increase. But, aside from a few exceptions, that just isn’t true. In many cases, without some type of test prep, the score will likely stay the same, or in some cases, the score may even drop.
The good news is that more and more colleges are becoming test-optional and relying on things like GPA, extracurricular involvement, letters of recommendations, and the personal statement to make admissions decisions. They are changing their practices because there is now a great deal of credible research that states that GPA is a much better determinant of college success than test scores. In my experience, I have certainly seen this to be true. I have seen the student with good the GPA and strong work ethic outwork the “lazy smart kid” with the high test scores and low grades. When it comes to college success Grit and Grades rule every time.
BUT, what if your dream college still requires a score that you haven’t achieved yet? There are lot of great options to help you boost your score.
Old School Prep Book – Students have used the tried and true test prep books for decades. The Official SAT Study Guide was created by the Collegeboard, the creators of the actual SAT test. It is a great, inexpensive tool that helps students reach their goals. It includes 8 full length tests with an answer key, explanations, and study tips.
Pros:With the book, test prep is available anywhere, whether technology is available or not.
Cons: Using a prep book requires a certain amount of discipline in order to be effective. For best results, you should create a regular schedule, complete the assignments, take practice tests and manually score them.
Khan Academy – www.khanacademy.org/sat- Khan Academy offers free web-based test prep that is tailored specifically for you. Once you receive your PSAT or SAT scores you can link it to Khan Academy along with the date of your next test or retest. It will create a prep course just for you that centers around your areas of weakness. It has 8 full-length practice tests, interactive lessons, videos, test-taking tips, and instant feedback.
Pros:Did I mention that it's free? It can also be integrated with The Collegeboard Test Prep Book, allowing students the ability to use both tools together.
Cons: This site does not provide ACT test prep. Also, some students prefer the pen and paper test-taking style, which is more like the actual SAT test. It also requires a certain amount of self-discipline. Students sometimes have a hard time resisting the temptation of the internet when they are supposed to be working on online test prep.
Professional Web-based Test Prep – Another effective way to prep is to use a Professional Service like Princeton Review or Kaplan. Most will have a fee but will also guarantee a score increase or your money back. They have practice tests, interactive video lessons, and feedback on answer/score reports.
Pros: Professional test prep provides interactive tools that get results. They offer a variety of different programs that can be tailored to your needs. Some even offer SAT and ACT prep as a combined option.
Cons: The cost can be prohibitive for some and students need to exercise self-discipline when using online test prep tools.
Professional Tutoring – Personally, I am a big fan of professional tutoring if you need it and if you can afford it. I view the cost as an investment in a student’s future and very much worth it. Companies like Sylvan Learning, Huntington Learning Center, and Kumon all offer guarantees for increased test scores. I have seen students raise their test scores in significant ways with this type of prep.
Pros: Having a tutor helps to provide structure and accountability. Most start by conducting a diagnostic practice test to see just what a student’s needs are. Then they design a realistic plan that includes skill building and test-taking strategies and they see a student on a regular basis. Students are likely to reach their goal with a coach guiding them and encouraging them.
Cons: The cost might prove to be a barrier for some families but the benefits are proven and often guaranteed.
The bottom line is that sitting for the test alone will not likely get you closer to the score you’re hoping for, but a little prep and persistence you CAN raise your score and improve your overall academic profile.
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