Tip #1. What's the Difference?

Have you always wondered what the differences are between the ACT and SAT? Knowing which test is right for you can make all the difference. Outlined below are a few of the difference between the two tests:

Why it's important: While the college admission and testing process can sometimes feel stressful and complicated, it's essential to understand that the more a student understands about the process, the better the student's score. While the decision between taking the SAT oer the ACT may feel puzzling, a few key differentiations likely will help guide a decision that will yield the best results for each individual student. Whether a student likes to work in short sections like the SAT, or feels more comfortable answering every question without the threat of a penalty like the ACT, confidence raises scores. . .and scores help students get accepted!

Tip #2. MATH!

ACT Mathematics

The ACT Mathematics section consists of 60 multiple choice questions.

Pre-Algebra and Elementary Algebra: This sub score consists of 24 questions involving topics such as fractions, decimals, ratio, percent, absolute value, variable to express relationships, polynomials and square roots. These skills most studetns have upon entering high school.

Intermediate Algebra/Coordinate Geometry: This sub score consists of 18 questions involving topic such as quadratic formula, inequalities, roots of poly nomials, real number line, line graphs, point, line and slope. These skills mosts students have upon completion of Algebra 1.

Plane Geometry/Trigononometry: this sub score consists of 18 questions involving topics such as properties and relationships of plane figures, parallel lines, proof techniques, perimeter, area, volume, graph of trigonometric functions, and trigonometric equations. These skills most students have upon completion of geometry.

SAT Mathematics

SAT Mathematics section is comprised of 44 multiple choice questions and 10 grid-in answers.

Number and Operations: This section consists of questions involving topics such as arithmetic word problems, number lines, ratio, proportion, percent, and logical reasoning. These skills most students have learned throughout their high school math career.

Algebra and Functions: this section consists of questions involving topics such as factoring, exponents, absolute value, inequalities, direct and inverse variations, linear functions, and quadratic functions. It does not include any trigonometry, complex numbers or logarithms.

Geometry and Measurements: This section consists of questions involving topics such as points, line, quadrilaterals, area, perimeters, circles, coordinate geometry, and transformations. It does not include any formal geometric proofs or radian measure.

Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability: This section consists of questions involving topics such as data interpretation, statistics, elementary probability, and geometric probability. It does not include any computation of standard deviation.

Knowing what is coming is helpful for prep! Make sure you are familiar with all the math that will be tested. Start studying early, be prepared!

Tip #3. Make a Plan!

Planning is crucial in making the college testing experience as comfortable as possible. Creating a clear schedule for when you are prepping, when you are testing, and when you are applying, will make you more effective and make every one's lives easier.

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Freshman

1. Begin thinking about a college prep plan

Sophomore

1. PSAT


2. SAT Subject tests (if taking applicable honors/AP courses.)

Junior

1. PSAT in October (if it has not been taken.)


2. Speak with college counselor and attend College Nights


3. SAT/ACT should be taken in the fall, and again in the spring.


4. Begin exploring colleges that are of interest, and scheduling college visits in the spring.

Senior

1. Create a master calendar of all college application and financial aid deadlines and due dates.


2. Collect letters of recommendation and high school transcripts.


3. If necessary, take SAT/SAT/SAT Subject tests in the fall.


4. Determine whether you are applying for Early Admission, if not your college choice must be decided and financial aid package accepted by May 1.

Remember, things will come up along the way that may force you to alter your schedule slightly, but once you have a clear road map worked out a small detour won't break yours stride towards college admission.

Tip #4. SAT or ACT? or BOTH?

Making the choice between taking the SAT and the ACT might leave your head spinning, but not to worry! I've outlined some things to think about, particularly about considering BOTH!

Understanding the Tests:

• The ACT and the SAT showcase different skills and slightly different academic curriculum. Many students possess strengths that favor elements of each test respectively, but by taking both tests, students can provide a more complete picture of their knowledge and talent.


• Some students will be inclined towards one test or the other, but it's impossible to be certain which test students will perform best on without actually having explored both tests.

What do Schools Look At?

• Most colleges accept both the SAT and ACT and they understand that the two tests have differences, but do not view either as "harder" or "easier." Having both allows college admissions departments to consider both scores in determining admission and scholarship eligibility.


• Some schools, however, only accept one, or might accept both but express a strong preference for one. They should make these requirements clear in their admissions/application information.

Bottom Line: It is always best to collect as much information about potential schools you're interested in so you can make decisions based on knowledge rather than guesses. But, since many similarities exist between the two tests, think about preparing for both. It will only strengthen students' abilities come test day, and can provide future college choice flexibility, with no risk of being forced to eliminate schools unnecessarily.

Do your homework. Know what schools you want to consider and know what they require.

Tip #5. Mastering the Sections

Some things in life never change. However, it turns out the SAT is not one of those things! in 2005, the SAT made significant changes by adding a "Writing" section and revising the existing "Math" and "Critical Reading" sections.
What this means for you:

• The addition of a writing section means students' writing ability is now being evaluated by admissions departments in two ways, the SAT and their admissions essay. Translation: Writing is more important than ever for admissions.


• The Critical Reading section was revised weighting comprehension heavier than vocabulary. Translation: Colleges are more interested in students that can comprehend and analyze what they read. The days of being able to memorize "frequently tested word" lists as a means of compensating for poor comprehension skills are over.


• The Math section now includes additional concepts and content typically seen in college bound student's third year of high school math. Translation: These changes may affect your testing timeline. Most students will be through all of the revised junior year content by the time they are taking the SAT, but if not, be prepared to take extra test prep time and be sure all math concepts have been covered.

Understanding the test is as important as understanding the content of the test. Every point counts!

Tip #6. Subject Tests

SAT Subject Tests may not receive all the hype that SAT and ACT tests receive, but all college-bound high school students need to be very aware the SAT Subject Test may very well be the deciding factor in determining their admission.

Top 5 Benefits of Taking SAT Subject Tests

1. While Subject Tests are not required for admission everywhere, they are "highly encouraged" at many colleges and virtually ALL highly competitive schools.


2. Subject Tests provide a great opportunity to demonstrate an individual's specific strengths and aptitudes. SAT Subject Tests provide applicants with the opportunity to differentiate their application from everybody else's.


3. The SAT and the ACT provide colleges with a broad sense of academic capabilities, but the Subject Tests provide dept and detail to the application.


4. For many colleges, Subject Tests may be necessary in order to be accepted into the desired major or program upon admission as a freshman.


5. SAT Subject Tests are content-based and scores generally directly reflect knowledge of the content (more so than test-taking skill.) Taking Subject Tests in the content you feel most confident can be a great opportunity to boost your application with the high test score.

Remember, while you may not know all the colleges you will be applying to yet, be prepared for admission by signing up for your targeted subject tests immediately following the completion of the AP/Honors classes.

Tip #7. Meet With The Counselor

Whether you're just beginning the college admissions process or far along and just fine-tuning your college application list, scheduling time to speak with your school's college counselor is invaluable! Your counselor has information about admission tests, college preparation, and upcoming college information events, which will all be of great benefit.
We've outlined 20 questions you should be ready to ask your Guidance Counselor:

1. What courses do I need to take to be ready for college?


2. How should I plan my schedule so I'll complete them?


3. Which elective courses do you recommend?


4. Which AP courses should I consider taking?


5. When is the PSAT/NMSQT going to be given?


6. How should I study for the SAT, and and is it given at this high school or do I need to go somewhere nearby?


7. Do you have any college planning sessions scheduled?


8. Do you have college handbooks or other guides that I can browse or borrow?


9. What activities can I do at home and over the summer to get ready for college?


10. What kinds of grades do different colleges require?


11. Are there any college fairs at this school, or nearby?


12. What colleges do other kids from our school go to?


13. What are the requirements or standards for the honor society?


14. Can you put me in touch with recent grads who are going to the colleges on my wish list?


15. Do you have any information to help me start exploring careers?


16. If my colleges need a recommendation from you, how can I help you know me better so it can be more personal?


17. Are there any special scholarships or awards that I should know about now, so I can work toward them?


18. Is my transcript as complete as I think it should be?


19. What forms do I use to apply for financial aid and where can I find them online?


20. How does our school's test scores and reputation compare to others?

The college admissions process can feel overwhelming, but remember to reach out the the support systems around you to take advantage of their experience with the process as well as their numerous resources.

The SAT is Coming. Top 10 Tips

We have started a "Count Down of Top 10 Test Prep Tips" as an e mail series to our families. I thought it would be nice to post them here as well! My next 10 posts will be counting down those tips over the next several weeks. Remember, the SAT is a bit early this year (October 1), so prep classes need to start sooner than in years past.

There's been much debate regarding the validity of SAT and ACT scores as "fair" or "accurate" predictors of future college success. However, no debate exists regarding their impact on a student's ability to be accepted to the college of their choice.

Pretend you are a college admissions specialist. You've not met the student, all you have is the below information. Which student would you accept?

As you can see, it can become very subjective comparing students in most areas of their application, but the test scores speak loudly, clearly, and require no clarification or explanation.

Test scores are important...very important. Many factors such as GPA, admissions essay, extracurricular activities, etc) will be considered by college admission departments, but SAT and ACT scores factor in largely in part because they are objective and serve as an easy point of comparison for colleges viewing many applications.

Students should use the SAT and ACT tests as an opportunity to set themselves apart from other students. It's an opportunity! Take it!