One of the pitfalls of digital testing is the potential for tech issues during the test. In the past year of digital SAT® testing, the College Board has worked hard to deliver a testing platform that protects students from tech glitches, but no digital test is perfect all of the time—and, unfortunately, the Saturday test date for March proved that point.
What Happened?
A technological glitch resulted in many students having their SAT submitted early. This seems to be related to the platform’s timing system, which was designed to submit the test at 11:00 a.m. local time.
For many students, especially those who have extended time on the test or whose testing locations had a delayed start time, the test was submitted before they completed the math section of the test.
Other students reported problems earlier in the testing experience as proctors attempted to proactively address the problem. These students were told to log out and log back in, a process that took up to 20 minutes—and the timer ran the entire time.
College Board’s Response
On Monday, March 10, the College Board emailed students who tested that day. (If you’re one of those students, be sure to check your email!) The College Board will be canceling all test scores by default unless students contact customer service by March 20 to request their scores be kept.
As part of their solution, the College Board is offering a free makeup test on March 22 for students whose scores are canceled.
What Should You Do?
Your next steps depend on your testing experience on March 8!
I Successfully Submitted My Test!
A successful test submission means that you saw a “Congratulations” screen after submitting. If you successfully submitted your test and you feel pretty good about test day, then you need to take action as soon as possible!
Contact College Board customer service by March 20. On the customer service form, choose the topic “Scores.” You’ll have an option to request your scores not be cancelled.
If you choose to keep your scores, you are not eligible for the March 22 makeup exam, but you will still get a full refund and a voucher for a free future test registration.
I Was Impacted by the Glitch…
If you either lost time thanks to well-meaning proctors who had you log out mid-test or had your test submitted before you were ready, you have options.
Think about your testing experience. If one section was unaffected and you feel pretty confident in the scores for that section, consider contacting customer service to keep your scores. After all, most colleges super score, so if you did well on one section of the test, you could always take the free voucher College Board is going to give you to try to bring up your score in the other section.
For example, let’s say your test got submitted early, so you’re worried about your math score—but you felt really great after finishing the reading and writing section, so you don’t want to lose what might be your highest verbal score yet! Keep the score, and if your math score is disappointing, retest later to bring it up.
If, on the other hand, the whole testing experience didn’t feel great, do nothing. Let the College Board cancel your scores. You can retake the exam on March 22 or register for a later test date.
Regardless of whether you keep your scores or allow them to be cancelled, you’ll get a full refund of your registration fee and a voucher for a free test registration in the future.
Worried about those SAT scores? Reach out to your local 宝博体育 Education center to find out how we can help you maximize your scores and set yourself up for admission at your dream college.
/wp-content/uploads/iStock-1253232550.jpg14142121Jesse Botella/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.pngJesse Botella2025-03-12 11:19:552025-03-12 12:53:59March 8 SAT Glitch: What Happened and What to Do About It
After test-optional policies became the new norm in 2020, ACT® and SAT® requirements for college admissions have been a huge focus for high school students. Fast-forward five years, and the testing policies are once again changing. Some schools are choosing to reinstate testing requirements, while others are changing their test-optional policies to a test-flexible approach. Colleges are continuing to re-evaluate their policies in the hopes of striking the perfect balance between fairness, accessibility, and relevance to the current times.
Changes in Testing Policies
In 2024, many colleges across the country reviewed and updated their standardized testing policies for applicants, but the University of California (UC) system has chosen to remain test blind for the foreseeable future.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the California Institute of Technology has changed from a test blind policy to a test required policy. The STEM-focused institution found that SAT and ACT scores provide key information about the academic preparedness of their applicants.
Some schools have taken a middle-of-the-road approach. For example, Yale University modified its test-optional policy to be test flexible instead. Under this new policy, applicants are required to submit a standardized test score, but they can choose to submit scores from either the ACT, SAT, Advanced Placement (AP®), or International Baccalaureate (IB®). By expanding the kinds of standardized tests that can be included in place of the ACT and SAT, Yale gives applicants more ways to showcase their strengths. This allows them to choose the exams that best represent their academic achievements.
Other top schools, like Harvard and Dartmouth, allow AP or IB scores to be submitted as alternatives to ACT and SAT scores, but only if applicants don’t have access to those exams where they live. While these shifts provide more options for your child, they also underscore the importance of thoroughly researching the specific requirements of your preferred colleges.
How Do Standardized Tests Impact College Admissions Plans?
Standardized tests will mostly impact when your child plans to finalize their college application. They should factor retakes into their timeline, and consider how well they can balance ACT and SAT prep alongside coursework and extracurricular activities. While we generally recommend finalizing test scores no later than the spring of your child’s junior year, it is possible to finalize them in the summer between junior and senior year or in the fall of their senior year.
Despite recent testing policy changes, standardized tests are still a big part of the college admissions process for many colleges. These tests provide a common metric to evaluate academic ability across a wide range of applicants. If your child is applying to competitive programs or universities, submitting strong test scores can help make their application even more memorable.
The main goal of the ACT and SAT is to gauge your child’s potential for success in higher education. These tests measure core skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning to see how well your child can adapt to familiar and unfamiliar topics. While grades can offer some insight into a student’s academic abilities, standardized tests – in theory – offer a uniform benchmark colleges can use to more accurately compare applicants from different educational backgrounds.
These scores give admissions teams one more piece of data to reference when reviewing your child’s application package. So, even when applying to test-optional universities, we strongly recommend submitting ACT or SAT scores as they can help strengthen the overall application and showcase your child’s college-readiness. While test scores are just one part of the application, they often provide valuable context about an applicant’s academic potential.
How your child performs on standardized tests can also be important if your child is applying for merit-based scholarships as many awards still require strong ACT or SAT scores to be eligible. Knowing how these tests fit into your child’s overall college admissions plan is key to making informed decisions.
How College Admissions Counseling Can Help You Prepare for These Changes
Navigating the changes in standardized testing policies can be overwhelming but you don’t have to do it alone. College admissions counseling offers personalized guidance to help you adapt to the changing requirements and build a strong application.
Working with an experienced counselor means your child stays up-to-date on the latest admissions policies at their target colleges. They can help your child create a customized testing plan, decide if submitting standardized test scores is right for them, and provide strategies to improve their scores. If your child is applying to highly competitive programs, college admissions counselors can also give them valuable insights on how to strengthen other parts of their application like essays and extracurriculars.
Recommending tutors for test prep is another area where counselors can make a big difference. From identifying your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses to providing resources that can help, they help ensure your child is on the right path to creating a strong application package. This can include offering guidance on the differences between the ACT and SAT and helping your child choose the test best aligned with their skills and college goals. With the right support, your child can get the support they need to make informed decisions throughout the college admissions process.
Prepare for College Admissions Success with 宝博体育 Education
At 宝博体育 Education we know the challenges your child faces in today’s competitive admissions world. That’s why we offer resources to help your child succeed no matter what the admissions landscape looks like. Our customized test prep programs for the ACT and digital SAT ensure your child is ready to do their best on test day. We focus on personalized strategies to help your child build the skills and confidence they need to achieve their goals.
No matter how admissions policies evolve, 宝博体育 Education’s resources are designed to help your child adapt. Our counselors and instructors work closely with families to develop strategies that address each student’s unique goals and challenges.
In addition to test prep, we offer college admissions counseling to help your child and families through every step of the process. From choosing the right schools to help writing an amazing personal statement, our counselors are here to support your child in their college application process. We stay ahead of the changes so we can ensure your child is prepared for success.
Standardized testing policies may continue to evolve, but with the right preparation and support, your child can adapt to these changes and create a strong college application. Don’t let uncertainty hold your child back — partner with 宝博体育 Education to help your child make their mark in the competitive college admissions process.
/wp-content/uploads/reasons-to-take-the-september-act-test.gif561840level.agency/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.pnglevel.agency2025-02-27 11:46:432025-02-27 11:46:43Are Standardized Tests Still Required for College Admissions in 2025?
You did all the work of preparing for the ACT, you sat through the 3+ hour long test, and now you’ve got your ACT score report in hand.
There are a lot of charts and graphs and numbers. What do they all mean?
Let’s go through each part of the ACT score report and talk about how to interpret your ACT scores.
How’d you do?
The first thing you’ll see on your ACT score report is a chart with your composite score and section scores. It’ll look like this:
Source: ACT, Inc.
Let’s go through the scores shown in this chart.
Composite score: This is the biggie—your overall ACT score. When someone asks, Hey, how’d you do on the ACT?, this is the score they’re referring to. The composite score is the average of your four main section scores (math, science, English, and reading). Keep reading to find out whether your composite ACT score is good.
Math: This is how you did on the math section, out of a possible 36 points.
Science: This is how you did on the science section, out of a possible 36 points.
STEM: This is the average of your math and science section scores.
English: This is how you did on the English section, out of a possible 36 points. (Seeing a pattern?)
Reading: This is how you did on the Reading section, out of a possible 63 points. (Not a typo—just checking to see if you’re still paying attention! It’s out of 36 points.)
Writing: If you took the essay section, this is your essay score. Just to shake things up, the Writing score is given out of a possible 12 points.
ELA: You’ll only get an ELA score if you took the Writing Test. Your ELA score is a weighted composite (since you can’t average three scores that aren’t on the same scale) of your English, Reading, and Writing scores.
So what’s with the lines and bands in the chart?
The purple lines show the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks in each section. ACT has conducted research to estimate the scores at which students are most likely to succeed in college courses. So, in the example above, this student scored just a bit higher than the College Readiness Benchmark for Reading. According to the ACT, she has about a 50% chance of getting a B or higher and a 75% chance of getting a C or higher in a freshman college course that focuses on reading.
The green (for STEM subjects) and blue (for ELA subjects) lines are your score.
The bands around your score lines show a score range. This is the range in which you would be expected to score if you took the ACT again tomorrow—it accounts for slight fluctuations in test performance.
What’s a good ACT score?
There are two lenses through which you can view your ACT score. This first is to compare your score to the scores of other test-takers. Lucky for you, your score report does this for you:
Source: ACT, Inc.
Your ranks show how you performed compared to recent high school graduates who took the ACT. This particular student scored the same or better than 56% of recent U.S. graduates who took the ACT. She scored the same or better than 58% of students in her state who took the ACT.
Knowing how you did compared to other students can give you context on your performance, but it won’t tell you how much your score will help you in achieving your college goals. For most students, the better lens to use in examining ACT performance is to compare your scores to the middle 50% of scores for your goal colleges.
Let’s take a closer look.
Scenario 1: I want to go to Cornell.
The middle 50% of students who enrolled as freshmen in 2023 scored between 33 and 35.
This student’s ACT score of 21 isn’t going to cut it, so based on this goal, her ACT score is not good.
The verdict: This score is not good.
Scenario 2: I want to go to SUNY Oneonta.
The middle 50% of students who enrolled as freshmen in 2023 scored between 23 and 28.
This student’s ACT score of 21 is okay. A bump would help, but a lot of students with this score are accepted at this school.
The verdict: This score is okay.
Scenario 3: I want to go to Rutgers Camden.
The middle 50% of students who enrolled as freshmen in 2023 scored between 18 and 26.
This student’s ACT score of 21 is well within range, so although the student could improve her chances of admission with a score boost, her score is perfectly in line with the school’s averages.
The verdict: This score is good.
How can I figure out what to study to boost my ACT scores?
The next section on your score report offers detailed results:
Source: ACT, Inc.
This breaks your performance down by topic or question type, which can help you decide which areas you need to focus on the most during your ACT prep sessions. Here are some things to pay attention to:
Raw count versus percentage: It’s tempting to just look at the bar graphs that show you the percentage of each question type that you answered correctly. For instance, in math, that 22% on Statistics and Probability looks pretty bad—clearly, you’d want to spend a lot of time on that topic, right? Not necessarily. If you look at the question counts, the student only missed 4 questions on that topic. But it you look at Integrating Essential Skills, where the student answered 44% of questions correctly, she missed 14 questions, which would have had a much bigger score impact.
Topics or skills that are connected: Especially on the math side of things, some skills are linked to one another. For example, Integrating Essential Skills questions address concepts typically learned in middle school. These topics often influence a student’s understanding of later concepts in algebra or geometry. In other words, by boosting understanding in Integrating Essential Skills, you might be able to improve performance in other math areas.
Ready to start your ACT prep? Check out these posts for help:
The ACT score report offers a bunch of additional information beyond your scores:
The colleges you selected to receive free score reports
Career and major guidance based on the interest inventory offered before the ACT
A prediction of how you would score on the ACT WorkKeys assessments, which are used to qualify for the ACT National Career Readiness Certificate, a certificate that can help students entering the job market directly after high school
Stats on retesting with the ACT (fun fact: more than half of students see score increases if they take the test again).
If your still can’t make heads or tails out of your ACT score report, don’t worry! We’ll be happy to go through it with you. Find your local 宝博体育 Education center, and schedule a free consultation.
Your GPA is more than just a number: It’s a reflection of your grades and a big deal in college admissions and scholarship options. If you want to increase your GPA fast, the good news is it’s possible to improve your grades in one semester.
This will cover everything you need to know, including how GPAs are calculated, weighted courses, and action steps to help you get started.
How GPAs Are Calculated
Before diving into strategies for improving your GPA, it’s important to understand how it’s calculated. GPAs can be unweighted or weighted, and different high schools may use slightly different systems. To get accurate and specific details about your school’s GPA calculation method, it’s always recommended to consult your guidance counselor.
<tdC
Unweighted Grading Scale
Letter Grade
Grade Point
A+/A
4.0
A-
3.7
B+
3.3
B
3.0
B-
2.7
C+
2.3
2.0
D+
1.3
D
1.0
F
0.0
To calculate your unweighted GPA:
Convert each letter grade to the grade point value. For example, let’s say you got a B in your first class, a C in the second class, and an A in the third and fourth classes.
Multiply the grade point value by the number of credit hours for each class. For the first class, if it’s a 3 credit hour class, the calculation would be: 3.0 (grade point value of B) x 3 (credit hours) = 9.0. Do this for each class.
Add up the grade point totals from step 2. For example, 6.0 for the first class, 9.0 for the second class, 12.0 for the third class, and 12.0 for the fourth class, the total would be 39.0.
Add up the total number of credit hours for all classes. In this case, if each class is a 3 credit hour class, the total would be 12 credit hours.
Divide the total grade points (39.0) by the total number of credit hours (12) to get your unweighted GPA. In this example, the calculation would be: 39.0 / 12 = 3.25.
You’ll need to add your calculated GPA with your current GPA, and average those scores to see how much you can improve your score.
How to Calculate Weighted GPAs
The letter grading scale changes for weighted courses, but how they’re calculated typically changes depending on the type of class you’re taking. Below is an example of how some schools may calculate weighted GPA.
Weighted Grading Scale
Letter Grade
Unweighted Grade Point
Weighted Grade Point (Honors Courses)
Weighted Grade Point (AP®/IB® Courses)
A+/A
4.0
4.5
5.0
A-
3.7
4.2
4.7
B+
3.3
3.8
4.3
B
3.0
3.5
4.0
B-
2.7
3.2
3.7
C+
2.5
2.8
3.3
C
2.3
2.5
3.0
C-
1.7
2.2
2.7
D+
1.3
1.8
2.3
D
1.0
1.5
2.0
F
0.0
0.0
0.0
To calculate your weighted GPA:
First calculate your unweighted GPA.
Multiply by the number of classes you’ve taken.
Add 0.5 for each regular class and 1.0 for each AP or honors class.
Divide by the total number of classes taken.
This will account for the difficulty of your classes and give a more accurate measure of your grades. Again, you’ll need to add the calculated GPA with your current GPA, then find the average to see how much you can improve your score.
Remember, each school has its own grading scale, so be sure to check with your school’s guidelines to make sure you’re calculating your GPA correctly.
How Do Weighted Courses Affect GPA?
Weighted classes take into account the difficulty of the class when calculating grades. They give extra points, so doing well in these classes can add a few points to your GPA. But, keep in mind, while weighted classes can add to your GPA, they can also subtract from it if you struggle.
You don’t have to take the corresponding AP exam to get a weighted score and improve your GPA. The AP exam itself doesn’t affect your GPA at all. Weighted classes show you’re willing to take on more challenging material, and how well you can do in a tough academic environment.
How Much Can You Boost Your GPA in One Semester?
How much you can bump your GPA in one semester depends on many things: your grades, the types of classes you take and the number of those classes. Be realistic, and know that if you have a lower starting GPA, you may see quicker improvement than someone with a higher GPA.
For example, let’s say Student A’s starting GPA is 3.5 and Student B’s starting 2.5.
If Student A takes four unweighted classes, and earn the following scores:
Class
Credit Hours
Letter Grade
Grade Point Equivalent
English
4
A
4.0
Math
3
B+
3.3
Art
3
A+
4.0
History
3
A-
3.7
Total
13
–
–
Their total grade points per class for the the current semester would be as follows:
English 4 x 4.0 = 16.0
Math 3 x 3.3 = 9.9
Art 3 x 4.0 = 12
History 3 x 3.7 = 11.1
This gives them a total of 49 grade points by the end of the semester. Divide the total grade points by the total number of credit hours taken to get the GPA for that semester. That would bring their GPA to 3.769, but we’ll round it up to 3.77.
Does this mean the student’s overall GPA will now be 3.77? No, that’s just their GPA for this semester. To find their new GPA for the school year, you’ll need to find the average of their previous semester and the current semester. To do this, add 3.5 to 3.77 to get 7.27, then divide it by 2 for an overall GPA of 3.63
Let’s say Student B takes the same number of unweighted classes and earns the same scores. We’ll work through the same process, just switch out the original GPA. This brings their 2.5 up to a 3.13.
But, wait. If they earned the same score in the same classes, why did Student B have a bigger jump than Student A? The simple answer is Student A started on the higher end of the grading scale. It takes more effort to see meaningful improvement since lower scores – like an A- or even a B – don’t carry as much weight for them as an A or A+.
Since Student B started on the lower end, even earning a C can make a noticeable difference in their GPA. They have much more room for improvement than their counterparts, so the boost is large in comparison. Remember, be realistic about your goals based on your abilities and the classes you’re in. Consistent effort, good study habits and seeking help when needed will help you maximize your GPA bump and be successful.
4 Tips to Help Boost Your GPA
Improving your GPA isn’t a one time thing; it’s a process that takes time and consistent effort. Everyone’s academic journey is unique and progress won’t always come as fast or as easy as you want. Instead of getting discouraged, embrace the process, be willing to try new things, and prepare to put in the work.
You may have to try new study techniques, seek out extra resources, or even explore subjects that challenge you. Getting out of your comfort zone allows for growth and can lead to epiphanies and academic success.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will your GPA. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small wins along the way, and stay committed to your academic goals. With consistent effort and willingness to try new things, you can get the score you want.
Work with a Tutor and Set Realistic Goals
Teachers may not have the time to give you one on one attention, but working with a tutor can give you insight from subject matter experts in a more focused setting. Tutors work with fewer students so they can tailor the session to your needs. They can help you develop good study habits, set realistic goals and keep you on track with your academic and college plans throughout your sessions.
Take Challenging Classes That Interest You
While weighted classes can be tough, taking classes you’re interested in can improve your overall performance, focus and motivation. When you have a real interest in the subject matter you’ll put in more time and effort to understand the material and get better grades.
Join a Study Group (and Teach Each Other)
Studying with classmates can be a great support system and you can hear different perspectives on the course material. Taking turns teaching each other and learning from their explanations can solidify your understanding of the key concepts, identify knowledge gaps and find new ways to simplify the material for others. Study groups can also be a great resource to review past tests, quizzes and assignments.
Ask Questions in Class
Asking questions when you have them can help you understand better and get your teacher to present the material in a different way. Taking notes during lessons and these explanations can also help with retention as you’re more engaged with the material and reinforcing your understanding.
Boost Your GPA with 宝博体育 Education
At 宝博体育 Education we know academic success is key and every student can do it. Our one on one tutoring can give you the extra support you need to boost your GPA and achieve your academic goals. Whether you need help in a specific subject, test prep or overall study skills our tutors are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let anything hold you back – contact 宝博体育 Education today for more information.
/wp-content/uploads/iStock-2163905465.jpg14142121level.agency/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.pnglevel.agency2025-02-14 09:59:512025-02-14 09:59:51Can You Improve Your GPA in One Semester?
Students planning for college often realize that the process is both exciting and stressful. Those who aspire to go to the best universities face an extremely competitive process. Often, the admissions process will involve taking the SAT, a multiple-choice test administered by the College Board, a non-profit organization. However, understanding SAT scores can be a challenge. So, we took the time to answer 15 frequently asked questions about SAT scores.
1. What are SAT scores?
The SAT is one of two tests used for college admission. Most colleges use SAT scores as a part of the college admissions process. SAT scores, in conjunction with high school grades, are thought to be a strong predictor of college success.
The total SAT score is reported on a 1600-point scale. It represents a student’s performance on the Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing sections of the test.
2. How are SAT scores calculated?
The SAT is made up of two sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Each section includes 2 modules. Performance on these sections determines a student’s overall SAT score.
Reading and writing are combined into a single score for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW). The two math modules are combined into a single Math score. Each of these areas is scored on a scale from 200 to 800 points.
Scores from these two sections are added together to arrive at a total SAT score ranging from 400 to 1600 points.
The SAT score report also includes percentile rankings and college readiness benchmarks.
Your percentile ranking indicates how well you performed compared to other test-takers. For example, if your percentile ranking is 73%, that means that you scored higher than or equal to 73% of test-takers.
College readiness benchmarks indicate whether you are on track to succeed in college. They are intended to help students identify the areas where they need to make improvements in order to be ready for the rigor of college-level work.
3. What are the average SAT scores?
Average SAT scores differ from year to year. The College Board publishes an annual report that analyzes SAT performance for all U.S. test-takers and for subgroups by gender, ethnicity, family income, school type, and state.
These numbers represent the 50th percentile for all U.S. test-takers. If you took the SAT in 2024 and scored above 1010, you scored in the top half of all test-takers, which means your score was above average.
4. What is a good SAT score?
A “good” SAT score could be defined based on your percentile ranking. In other words, you could assess your SAT performance based on how well other test-takers did. The higher your percentage, the better your score.
But a better definition for a “good” SAT score depends on your college goals. Different colleges have different expectations for SAT scores. At many excellent schools, the majority of students might score in the 1200 to 1300 range; at highly selective schools, the majority of admitted students score in the 1500s.
Although SAT scores are often a very important factor in admission decisions, top SAT scores are never a guarantee of admission. SAT scores are one part of a review process that also evaluates your grades, course selections, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, essays, and more.
5. Is my SAT score more important than my grades?
No. In fact, many colleges remain test optional, meaning that students can apply for admission without submitting SAT scores at all (although submitting strong SAT scores still enhances a student’s application).
The College Board has conducted large-scale studies that demonstrate that “using SAT scores in conjunction with [high school grades] is the most powerful way to predict future academic performance.” This is one reason why many selective schools have chosen to return to test required policies. In other words, BOTH grades and SAT scores are important.
6. What SAT score do I need?
That depends on your college goals. Just as there is a wide range of colleges—from large public universities to small liberal arts colleges and everything in between—there is a wide range of acceptable SAT scores.
Most colleges publish information about the test scores for accepted students, giving you a range known as the “median score range,” sometimes called the “middle 50%.” 1 in 4 admitted students will have scored below this range; 1 in 4 will have scored above this range; and the remaining students will have scored within this range.
This data offers insight into what SAT score is considered competitive at your chosen colleges. We advise students to strive for a score that is above the 75th percentile at their dream college.
7. How do my SAT scores compare?
To get an idea of how your SAT scores compare to other test-takers, you’ll need to look at your College Board report. On the front side of the report, you’ll see a number between 1 and 99. This number represents the percentage of students whose scores are equal to or lower than yours.
For example, if the percentile you receive for the Math section is 50%, you should interpret this to mean that 50% of test-takers have scored equal to or lower than you did.
8. Can I get my SAT scores double-checked?
The College Board provides what it calls “very careful and systematic quality control processes” to ensure that your score is accurate. Test-takers who want to double-check their scores can access score verification services. To request a score verification service, you will need to complete a request for a SAT score verification form.
There is a score verification fee. As of January 2020, the fee is $55 to verify the scoring of multiple-choice sections.
9. How and when do I find out my SAT scores?
The multiple-choice test results are typically released 13 days after the test date. (The June test date results often take slightly longer.)
Scores more than a year old are considered “old SAT scores” and are archived. If you need old SAT score reports, you can request them from the College Board by phone or email.
To access your old SAT scores, you will be charged the regular score report free of $12 per report. Added to this is an archive fee of $31, making the total cost $43.
You can order a rush score report if you need an old score to be sent to a college or an employer quickly (2-4 days). You will pay the regular report fee of $12, an archive fee of $31, and an extra $31, making the total cost $74 (Source).
10. What do I do if I am having problems accessing my score?
Before calling the College Board for help, take these steps:
If you have another College Board account created by a counselor or parent, you’ll need to log out your current session and then log in using the other account.
If the above suggestions fail, you can call 866-433-7728 (for students in the US). Details for international students are available on the College Board’s Contact Us page.
11. What options do I have if I feel that my SAT score may not reflect my best performance?
If you took the SAT and you felt that you did not do your best, you have several options.
Your best bet is to simply plan to take the SAT again. Create a study plan and prepare thoroughly before retaking the test. Policies like these mean that your disappointingly low score is unlikely to affect your college admission chances:
Score Choice: Score Choice allows you to choose which scores get sent to colleges, so if you did badly on this test, you could opt not to send the scores. Not all colleges accept Score Choice—some schools require that all test scores be sent. Be sure to check the policies at your chosen colleges.
Superscoring: Many colleges practice what is commonly known as “superscoring,” which means that they only look at the highest section scores. If you did badly on this particular test date, it would have no impact on admission decisions.
Highest test date: Other colleges only look at your highest score from a single test date. So if you retake the SAT and do better in a couple of months, colleges will only use that better score in the admissions process.
Regardless of your school’s policies, you may want to consider canceling the free score reports that you opted to send to your top choice colleges. You can do this through your student portal on the College Board’s website.
It is possible to cancel your scores if you act quickly—but there are very few situations in which it is to your best advantage to cancel scores:
There was an emergency, so you had to leave before you finished the test.
Your calculator didn’t work on the entire math with calculator section.
You were sick and/or fell asleep during the test.
You’re absolutely, 100% positive that you messed up an entire section of the test AND your dream college doesn’t allow for Score Choice.
If you cancel your scores, you’ll never find out how you did—think carefully before you cancel. If you do decide to cancel, you have until 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on the first Thursday following the test.
Download the Cancel Test Scores form, fill it in and submit it before 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the first Thursday following the test. See the available options for submitting your cancellation requests here.
12. How do I send my SAT scores to colleges?
The majority of colleges have a policy stipulating that official reports must be sent to them directly from the College Board. This means that you cannot send copies of online scores or score report labels on transcripts.
You need to sign in to the College Board’s website to submit your scores.
13. Do all colleges use SAT scores in the same way?
Colleges have different admission processes and different policies on how they use SAT scores.
Among those colleges that require test scores, many accept the College Board’s Score Choice option. Score Choice allows you to choose which score reports to send to colleges.
Below is a video from the College Board explaining Score Choice.
Not all schools allow Score Choice—some require that you submit all of your test scores.
Colleges also have different score use policies:
Highest sitting: A highest sitting policy means the college looks at your highest score from a single test date.
Highest section: This is what’s known as super scoring. A highest section or super scoring policy means the college takes your highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score and your highest Math score, regardless of whether you earned those high scores on the same test date.
14. What can I do to get a high SAT score in my first attempt?
While there are no shortcuts, here are some strategies to help you score higher on your first SAT attempt:
Take a practice SAT to identify your strengths and weaknesses. To get the most accurate results, mimic real testing conditions as closely as possible—take the test with pen and paper rather than online, make sure you’re timed accurately, sit at a desk in a quiet space, and (if possible) time it for early in the morning. The College Board has put some practice tests online, though online testing won’t reflect the testing experience you’ll have on the real thing.
Create a study plan to improve your weakest areas and maintain skills in your strong areas.
Complete plenty of practice questions, practice sections, and practice tests so that you become comfortable with the tone and format of SAT questions. Review these practice sets carefully—make sure that you know exactly why you got each question right or wrong.
Get a good night’s sleep before the test.
15. Can I get a scholarship for my SAT score?
Some colleges automatically award scholarships based on SAT or ACT scores, sometimes including other qualifiers like GPA. You don’t need to submit any extra application information to be eligible for these types of scholarships, but sometimes you must meet a particular deadline to qualify. Be sure to do your research!
A lot of students think of “college admissions” as “applying to college,” but the college admissions process starts long before you start filling out applications. We’ve broken down some of the biggest college admissions milestones to help you stay on track on the road to college.
Throughout High School – All Four Years
There are certain things that you should do every single year in order to thoroughly prepare for college while building a really strong college application:
Maintain a rigorous class schedule
Challenge yourself with tough classes to really show colleges what you’re made of. Take the toughest classes you think you can reasonably excel in.
Keep your grades up
Your grades throughout high school tell admission officers a lot about your commitment to academics, your abilities, and your mastery of certain subjects – grades certainly aren’t the only thing colleges look at, but they count for a lot.
Don’t overlook extracurricular activities
College admissions considerations don’t end with the final bell of the school day. Colleges seek applicants who are involved in their schools and communities, who demonstrate leadership skills, and who know how to balance their academic and non-academic responsibilities. The best way to demonstrate these attributes is to find a few extracurricular activities that truly interest you and to pursue these activities throughout high school. Don’t just join a bunch of clubs and teams because you think colleges will like them – if you’re going to dedicate a lot of time to something, it should be something you enjoy.
Junior Year – Fall
First semester of junior year is typically the time when students “get serious” about the whole college admissions process. With just a year to go before it’s time to fill out applications, it’s crunch time:
It might be a good idea to take both tests since some students seem to have a natural affinity for one test over the other. Regardless of whether you take both tests or just one, plan to sit for more than one test date so that you can submit your best scores. For advice about which tests to take and how best to prepare, contact your local 宝博体育 Education center for a consultation!
Research your options
It’s time to start figuring out where you want to apply. Remember to consider many different variables beyond prestige, rankings, or your favorite NCAA teams, including cost, location, school size, and programs offered. Be sure to include colleges that are safety schools (those you’re pretty sure you’d get accepted at), reach schools (those you think you might possibly get accepted at, but the odds aren’t spectacular), and match schools (those where you fairly evenly match their accepted students in grades and test scores).
Visit schools
If big trips just aren’t in the cards, stick with local schools. Even if you aren’t interested in applying, these visits can help you figure out what to look for in a college.
Junior Year – Spring
If you’ve laid the groundwork in fall semester, spring semester should be pretty busy:
Register for and take the SAT and/or ACT
Taking your admission tests now gives you plenty of time to retake the tests if you want higher scores. It’s a good idea to plan for a second test date because many students perform better on their second try.
Prepare for and take AP exams
It is the exam score – not your grade in the class – that determines whether or not you become eligible for college credit. Make your test score count! Learn more about AP prep here.
Narrow down your list of colleges
You should aim for no more than 10 to 15 colleges on your finalized list. Be sure to consider all factors, including cost, graduation rates, location, size, and programs.
Summer After Junior Year
Don’t waste your last high school summer. Make it count towards college admissions:
Visit potential colleges
If at all possible, travel to your possible schools to see first-hand what they’re like. After all, the school you attend will be your home for several years, so you should make sure you really like it.
Detail your application plans
Figure out application deadlines, weigh your options regarding Early Action and Early Decision programs (read more on that here), and mark your calendar to be sure that you have all the pieces of your applications in place when you need them.
Use the net price calculators offered on college websites to estimate your out of pocket costs and explore your financial aid options.
Apply for scholarships
Depending on your college’s policies, scholarships may help to defray your college costs.
Senior Year – Fall
The finish line is finally in sight – don’t lost momentum now!
Identify teachers for recommendations
Do not wait to the last minute – teachers are busy, and you want to give them plenty of time to craft a compelling recommendation for you. Try to give teachers/coaches at least a month’s notice before the deadline. Do the legwork for them by offering them a bulleted list explaining why you chose them and how you feel you performed in their classes; prepare a packet that includes all the information they might need, such as application deadlines, forms, and a stamped addressed envelope for each recommendation.
Take the SAT and/or ACT again
Especially if you weren’t 100% satisfied with your earlier scores, now is a good time to give these tests another go. Remember that most schools won’t take scores for testing dates later than January – taking these tests earlier in the fall leaves you at least one more test date if you really need to take the test one more time.
Revise your college application essays
Now is the time to ask for some outside input from teachers, counselors, or 宝博体育 tutors. Be sure to eliminate any and all errors and ask for advice on the content of the essay from those who are familiar with the college admissions process.
Follow your college application plan
Be sure to meet any early deadlines that you’ve planned for. To help ease the process, gather all of your materials (forms, essays, test scores, recommendations, transcripts, etc.) in advance.
If needed, submit your CSS Profile
Some schools require a CSS Profile for students applying early. This is a financial aid form comparable to the FAFSA.
Senior Year – Spring
The end is near – just a few more steps:
Submit any remaining college applications
Some schools have deadlines that fall as late as March – be sure to stay on top of all of your application deadlines.
Complete and submit the FAFSA and any school-based financial aid forms
The sooner you submit your FAFSA, the better – some schools give aid on a first-come-first-serve basis. Don’t forget to follow up by submitting updated tax information once your parents have filed their taxes for the year.
Play the waiting game
One of the hardest parts of the entire process is waiting for decisions to arrive. While you wait, be sure to maintain your grades!
Compare financial aid packages from the schools where you received admission
If needed – for instance, if your family’s financial circumstances have changed – reach out to financial aid offices to appeal their offers.
Pick your school
Weigh your options carefully to be sure that you’re choosing the best school for you. Don’t be swayed by prestige or rankings – make your decision based on program offerings, financial aid, location, and fit.
Take your AP exams
Remember that course credit is offered based on these scores!
Maintain your grades
Schools can rescind offers of admission if your grades plummet.
Pay attention to deadlines
Submit all enrollment paperwork and deposits on time.
For more college admission resources, check out this page. Good luck, students!
/wp-content/uploads/student-working-on-schoolwork.jpg7971200宝博体育 Education/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.png宝博体育 Education2025-02-11 15:55:182025-02-14 10:13:52College Admissions: What to Do & When
If you’re a high school sophomore, chances are you’re planning to take a practice ACT or SAT test. However, if you’re planning on taking that practice test on a home computer, think again. There are a few good reasons why setting aside a weekend morning to sit for a proctored practice test is in your best interest. If you’ve been working on SAT or ACT tutoring, sitting for a proctored practice exam is the logical next step in your preparations. Here’s why.
It Simulates the Real Thing
When you take a practice test at home, you don’t truly get a sense of what the actual test will feel like. At home, you may be distracted by a sibling or a blaring TV. You can get up and grab a snack if your stomach growls. You may experience internet issues. On the other hand, if you sit for a proctored exam, you’ll experience the real deal.
You’ll Build Confidence
Likewise, an at-home practice test allows you to rush through the exam, because you can move at your own pace. In a proctored, full practice test, you’ll be required to sit through the entire time allotted for each section, meaning you’ll learn how to better utilize your time and build confidence for the SAT.
It Helps You Decide Which Test to Focus on
When you take the time to simulate both tests, you’ll get a better idea of which test you should focus on during your preparation. Perhaps you have an easier time and score better on your practice ACT. You can then dedicate more time to studying for the ACT instead of giving equal attention to both.
Sure, your weekends are already crammed with studying, activities, and time with friends. But sacrificing a morning for a proctored practice exam is well worth your time.
Focus on Success with 宝博体育
At 宝博体育 Education, we offer proctored SAT and ACT practice exams. Stop by your local 宝博体育 Education Center today, or call us at (888) 339-5205 to learn more about scheduling one. When a test means this much, preparation is key.
/wp-content/uploads/student-takes-practice-test.jpg475900宝博体育 Education/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.png宝博体育 Education2025-02-11 11:24:202025-02-12 15:13:293 Reasons You Should Take a Proctored Practice ACT or SAT Test
Academic struggles can manifest differently in every child. In some cases, it could be your child losing interest in their schoolwork. In others, it could appear as behavioral issues. This can make it difficult to accurately identify when your child needs extra academic support.
Being actively engaged in your child’s education could help you notice issues before they worsen. Your child may do better in some subjects than others, so understanding their baseline can help notice changes in their performance and quickly intervene. Working with a tutor can be an excellent way to help your child overcome current barriers and build the skills to succeed in higher education.
What Age is the Best to Get a Tutor?
Your child can benefit from a tutor at any age. Tutors can help your child overcome immediate barriers, build healthy study habits and reshape how they view themselves. This can improve your child’s relationship with learning in the future.
Tutors can help bring out the best in your child by providing personalized support and guidance. They encourage your child to tackle unfamiliar problems logically, make educated guesses, and be open to learning from mistakes. These are valuable skills that can benefit your child at any age.
5 Signs Your Child Could Use a Tutor
Signs your child may need a tutor appear in many ways. While each child is different, there are some commonalities to keep in mind. If you spot any of these signs in your child, it could be a clue they could benefit from tutoring.
There’s a Drastic Change in Their Academic Performance.
Your child’s academic performance can be impacted by changes happening in and out of school. As they progress through their studies, your child will encounter new and challenging concepts. If your child is underperforming in subjects where they previously excelled, a tutor can help them get back on track.
Working with a tutor can provide a low-stress environment where your child can improve their understanding of different subjects. They can freely ask questions, test theories, develop new habits, and take risks without fear of being judged. As their comprehension improves, so will their confidence in their abilities. The skills and habits they build during their time with a tutor can better prepare your child for success in higher education.
Major life changes such as parents divorcing, changing schools, or even a death in the family can impact your child’s academic performance. The stress caused by these events could make it more difficult for them to focus during class or care about their grades. Working with a tutor can help your child better engage with coursework and improve their attitude toward learning.
They Seem Disinterested in School.
Your child may stop talking about school or avoid speaking about their day in detail. You may notice they seem to put off doing their homework or seem generally unengaged in their academic life. These could be signs that your child is struggling with the material, or they’re burned out.
With so much emphasis placed on academic performance, your child may become overwhelmed and lose their passion for learning.
Tutors can provide your child with the extra support and attention they may not receive at school. Since they work with smaller groups than teachers, they can provide your child with the extra support and attention they may not receive at school. They may serve as a listening ear for your child to gain insight into challenges they’re facing. This can help them identify whether any of these challenges contribute to their burnout. If so, they can leverage these insights when creating upcoming lesson plans.
Tutors can also provide structured study sessions, so your child feels less overwhelmed as they work through their assignments. The pace of these sessions can be adjusted as necessary to help reduce any stress your student may feel when tackling more difficult subjects. During these sessions, your child can learn how to better balance their workload, develop healthier study habits and manage school-related stress.
They’re Behaving Differently at Home.
Stress from academic struggles can lead to changes in a child’s behavior. They may become irritable, easily frustrated, or even lash out. If your child is displaying behavioral changes that are out of character, it could be linked to stress they may be under at school.
As a parent or guardian, you know your child best. If you notice a significant shift in their behavior, it’s important to address it and consider seeking additional support for them. Early academic intervention can reduce your child’s stress by addressing any underlying issues and giving them clear next steps on how to improve.
They Have Trouble Completing Homework or Studying Effectively.
If homework time is turning into a nightly battle or your child seems overwhelmed when studying for tests, it could be a sign they need some extra help. A tutor can teach your child study skills and techniques that work best for their learning style. They can also provide support with specific subject material to make time spent on homework more productive and less stressful.
They Start Losing Confidence in Themselves.
If your child is experiencing academic struggles, it could take a toll on their self-esteem. They may feel like they are falling behind or not smart enough to keep up with their peers. This can lead to a vicious cycle of low self-confidence and even less motivation to learn.
A tutor can provide positive reinforcement, personalized attention, and help your child build key skills and knowledge. As they see improvements in their academic performance, their confidence will grow alongside it.
How Can Tutoring Benefit Your Child?
If you see any of these signs in your child, it’s probably time to start working with a tutor. Remember, tutoring is about more than just the immediate struggle. The habits and skills they develop now can better prepare them for higher education.
Tutors have the time and space that teachers may not have to tailor learning opportunities to your child’s unique abilities and learning styles. They can take complex material and make it more digestible for your child based on assessments of their prior knowledge and skills.
Your child can benefit from individualized attention. Tutors can tailor each session to your child’s abilities to give individualized feedback and support in a low-stress learning environment. Without grades attached to learning goals, your child may feel more comfortable making mistakes.
Schools try to provide structured learning environments, but with frequent interruptions, it can be challenging for some children to thrive. Tutoring centers and virtual learning environments provide a more structured environment to improve your child’s chances of immediate and long-term academic success.
Can I Book a Tutor Before I See These Signs?
Absolutely! Working with a tutor before issues occur can help your child continue to perform at the best. Their expertise can help your child adjust to the new demands of each grade level and identify any learning gaps before they turn into major obstacles. This can keep their stress levels at a minimum while enriching their learning experience.
Keep Your Child on Track with Expert Tutors
When your child shows signs of needing additional support, tutoring is one of the best options. Keep an open line of communication with your child, so they feel comfortable reaching out when they need help. The best thing you can do is make sure they know they’re not on their academic journey alone.
Working with a tutor from 宝博体育 Education, you can give your child access to the academic support they need to thrive. Our programs use proven techniques to assess the gaps in your child’s knowledge and skills to design a personalized program. We offer tutoring services for children of all ages in need of additional support beyond what teachers and parents can provide.
/wp-content/uploads/3J4A1767-scaled.jpg17082560level.agency/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.pnglevel.agency2025-02-11 09:19:272025-05-20 17:01:02How Do You Know If Your Child Needs a Tutor
For students who do well in school and just can’t seem to get those high test scores, this is no small worry. After all, SAT and ACT scores are among the top factors in admissions decisions. Fear not! You can take steps to ensure college success even if your SAT or ACT scores stink.
If your applications are due…
Test prep just isn’t an option if your applications are due now, but all is not lost. First, take a deep breath and remind yourself that while test scores are important, grades and course rigor count for a lot. How you’ve performed in four years’ worth of high-level courses almost always outweighs how you performed during a single test. Even if your test scores aren’t where they really should be in order to be competitive at your dream college, apply anyway! The test scores published by colleges usually represent the middle 50% of admitted students, so 1 in 4 admitted students scored below that range. Take the chance.
At the same time, hedge your bets. Do some research to identify possible safety schools where your low SAT or ACT scores won’t be a problem. Safety schools are important to every student, no matter what their test scores look like!
Don’t forget to consider test flexible or test optional colleges. Hundreds of highly ranked colleges have deemphasized test scores in their admissions processes. Check out these resources to explore more:
Although the SAT and the ACT are intended to test the same knowledge and skills that you learn in high level classes, a lot of high-performing students just don’t see their academic skills reflected in their test scores. Sometimes there’s a gap in knowledge that just doesn’t show up in current course grades. Other times a lack of test-taking skills causes students to freeze up, run out of time, and second guess themselves. Regardless of the root cause, if you’ve still got a few months before you need to have your final test scores, SAT or ACT prep can do wonders.
Even the College Board, purveyor of the SAT, has recognized the value of good test prep: A College Board study found that students increased their SAT scores by an average of 115 points after 20 hours of online test prep. Online resources like Khan Academy can offer a good score boost. If that’s not enough, in-person customized test prep like that offered at 宝博体育 Education can help to shore up fundamental skills and build test-taking abilities.
/wp-content/uploads/Students-practicing-SAT-ACT-tests.jpg14142121宝博体育 Education/wp-content/uploads/c2_logo-1.png宝博体育 Education2025-02-11 08:47:122025-02-12 15:20:33On the Bright Side: Handling a Bad SAT or ACT score
March 8 SAT Glitch: What Happened and What to Do About It
SATOne of the pitfalls of digital testing is the potential for tech issues during the test. In the past year of digital SAT® testing, the College Board has worked hard to deliver a testing platform that protects students from tech glitches, but no digital test is perfect all of the time—and, unfortunately, the Saturday test date for March proved that point.
What Happened?
A technological glitch resulted in many students having their SAT submitted early. This seems to be related to the platform’s timing system, which was designed to submit the test at 11:00 a.m. local time.
For many students, especially those who have extended time on the test or whose testing locations had a delayed start time, the test was submitted before they completed the math section of the test.
Other students reported problems earlier in the testing experience as proctors attempted to proactively address the problem. These students were told to log out and log back in, a process that took up to 20 minutes—and the timer ran the entire time.
College Board’s Response
On Monday, March 10, the College Board emailed students who tested that day. (If you’re one of those students, be sure to check your email!) The College Board will be canceling all test scores by default unless students contact customer service by March 20 to request their scores be kept.
As part of their solution, the College Board is offering a free makeup test on March 22 for students whose scores are canceled.
What Should You Do?
Your next steps depend on your testing experience on March 8!
I Successfully Submitted My Test!
A successful test submission means that you saw a “Congratulations” screen after submitting. If you successfully submitted your test and you feel pretty good about test day, then you need to take action as soon as possible!
Contact College Board customer service by March 20. On the customer service form, choose the topic “Scores.” You’ll have an option to request your scores not be cancelled.
If you choose to keep your scores, you are not eligible for the March 22 makeup exam, but you will still get a full refund and a voucher for a free future test registration.
I Was Impacted by the Glitch…
If you either lost time thanks to well-meaning proctors who had you log out mid-test or had your test submitted before you were ready, you have options.
Think about your testing experience. If one section was unaffected and you feel pretty confident in the scores for that section, consider contacting customer service to keep your scores. After all, most colleges super score, so if you did well on one section of the test, you could always take the free voucher College Board is going to give you to try to bring up your score in the other section.
For example, let’s say your test got submitted early, so you’re worried about your math score—but you felt really great after finishing the reading and writing section, so you don’t want to lose what might be your highest verbal score yet! Keep the score, and if your math score is disappointing, retest later to bring it up.
If, on the other hand, the whole testing experience didn’t feel great, do nothing. Let the College Board cancel your scores. You can retake the exam on March 22 or register for a later test date.
Regardless of whether you keep your scores or allow them to be cancelled, you’ll get a full refund of your registration fee and a voucher for a free test registration in the future.
Worried about those SAT scores? Reach out to your local 宝博体育 Education center to find out how we can help you maximize your scores and set yourself up for admission at your dream college.
Are Standardized Tests Still Required for College Admissions in 2025?
College Adm, COLLEGE ADMISSIONS, HIGH SCHOOL, Test PrepAfter test-optional policies became the new norm in 2020, ACT® and SAT® requirements for college admissions have been a huge focus for high school students. Fast-forward five years, and the testing policies are once again changing. Some schools are choosing to reinstate testing requirements, while others are changing their test-optional policies to a test-flexible approach. Colleges are continuing to re-evaluate their policies in the hopes of striking the perfect balance between fairness, accessibility, and relevance to the current times.
Changes in Testing Policies
In 2024, many colleges across the country reviewed and updated their standardized testing policies for applicants, but the University of California (UC) system has chosen to remain test blind for the foreseeable future.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, the California Institute of Technology has changed from a test blind policy to a test required policy. The STEM-focused institution found that SAT and ACT scores provide key information about the academic preparedness of their applicants.
Some schools have taken a middle-of-the-road approach. For example, Yale University modified its test-optional policy to be test flexible instead. Under this new policy, applicants are required to submit a standardized test score, but they can choose to submit scores from either the ACT, SAT, Advanced Placement (AP®), or International Baccalaureate (IB®). By expanding the kinds of standardized tests that can be included in place of the ACT and SAT, Yale gives applicants more ways to showcase their strengths. This allows them to choose the exams that best represent their academic achievements.
Other top schools, like Harvard and Dartmouth, allow AP or IB scores to be submitted as alternatives to ACT and SAT scores, but only if applicants don’t have access to those exams where they live. While these shifts provide more options for your child, they also underscore the importance of thoroughly researching the specific requirements of your preferred colleges.
How Do Standardized Tests Impact College Admissions Plans?
Standardized tests will mostly impact when your child plans to finalize their college application. They should factor retakes into their timeline, and consider how well they can balance ACT and SAT prep alongside coursework and extracurricular activities. While we generally recommend finalizing test scores no later than the spring of your child’s junior year, it is possible to finalize them in the summer between junior and senior year or in the fall of their senior year.
Despite recent testing policy changes, standardized tests are still a big part of the college admissions process for many colleges. These tests provide a common metric to evaluate academic ability across a wide range of applicants. If your child is applying to competitive programs or universities, submitting strong test scores can help make their application even more memorable.
The main goal of the ACT and SAT is to gauge your child’s potential for success in higher education. These tests measure core skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and mathematical reasoning to see how well your child can adapt to familiar and unfamiliar topics. While grades can offer some insight into a student’s academic abilities, standardized tests – in theory – offer a uniform benchmark colleges can use to more accurately compare applicants from different educational backgrounds.
These scores give admissions teams one more piece of data to reference when reviewing your child’s application package. So, even when applying to test-optional universities, we strongly recommend submitting ACT or SAT scores as they can help strengthen the overall application and showcase your child’s college-readiness. While test scores are just one part of the application, they often provide valuable context about an applicant’s academic potential.
How your child performs on standardized tests can also be important if your child is applying for merit-based scholarships as many awards still require strong ACT or SAT scores to be eligible. Knowing how these tests fit into your child’s overall college admissions plan is key to making informed decisions.
How College Admissions Counseling Can Help You Prepare for These Changes
Navigating the changes in standardized testing policies can be overwhelming but you don’t have to do it alone. College admissions counseling offers personalized guidance to help you adapt to the changing requirements and build a strong application.
Working with an experienced counselor means your child stays up-to-date on the latest admissions policies at their target colleges. They can help your child create a customized testing plan, decide if submitting standardized test scores is right for them, and provide strategies to improve their scores. If your child is applying to highly competitive programs, college admissions counselors can also give them valuable insights on how to strengthen other parts of their application like essays and extracurriculars.
Recommending tutors for test prep is another area where counselors can make a big difference. From identifying your child’s academic strengths and weaknesses to providing resources that can help, they help ensure your child is on the right path to creating a strong application package. This can include offering guidance on the differences between the ACT and SAT and helping your child choose the test best aligned with their skills and college goals. With the right support, your child can get the support they need to make informed decisions throughout the college admissions process.
Prepare for College Admissions Success with 宝博体育 Education
At 宝博体育 Education we know the challenges your child faces in today’s competitive admissions world. That’s why we offer resources to help your child succeed no matter what the admissions landscape looks like. Our customized test prep programs for the ACT and digital SAT ensure your child is ready to do their best on test day. We focus on personalized strategies to help your child build the skills and confidence they need to achieve their goals.
No matter how admissions policies evolve, 宝博体育 Education’s resources are designed to help your child adapt. Our counselors and instructors work closely with families to develop strategies that address each student’s unique goals and challenges.
In addition to test prep, we offer college admissions counseling to help your child and families through every step of the process. From choosing the right schools to help writing an amazing personal statement, our counselors are here to support your child in their college application process. We stay ahead of the changes so we can ensure your child is prepared for success.
Standardized testing policies may continue to evolve, but with the right preparation and support, your child can adapt to these changes and create a strong college application. Don’t let uncertainty hold your child back — partner with 宝博体育 Education to help your child make their mark in the competitive college admissions process.
Find a 宝博体育 center near you or submit this form to request more information!
Understanding Your ACT Score Report
TEST PREPYou did all the work of preparing for the ACT, you sat through the 3+ hour long test, and now you’ve got your ACT score report in hand.
There are a lot of charts and graphs and numbers. What do they all mean?
Let’s go through each part of the ACT score report and talk about how to interpret your ACT scores.
How’d you do?
The first thing you’ll see on your ACT score report is a chart with your composite score and section scores. It’ll look like this:
Source: ACT, Inc.
Let’s go through the scores shown in this chart.
So what’s with the lines and bands in the chart?
The bands around your score lines show a score range. This is the range in which you would be expected to score if you took the ACT again tomorrow—it accounts for slight fluctuations in test performance.
What’s a good ACT score?
There are two lenses through which you can view your ACT score. This first is to compare your score to the scores of other test-takers. Lucky for you, your score report does this for you:
Source: ACT, Inc.
Your ranks show how you performed compared to recent high school graduates who took the ACT. This particular student scored the same or better than 56% of recent U.S. graduates who took the ACT. She scored the same or better than 58% of students in her state who took the ACT.
Knowing how you did compared to other students can give you context on your performance, but it won’t tell you how much your score will help you in achieving your college goals. For most students, the better lens to use in examining ACT performance is to compare your scores to the middle 50% of scores for your goal colleges.
Let’s take a closer look.
Scenario 1: I want to go to Cornell.
The middle 50% of students who enrolled as freshmen in 2023 scored between 33 and 35.
This student’s ACT score of 21 isn’t going to cut it, so based on this goal, her ACT score is not good.
The verdict: This score is not good.
Scenario 2: I want to go to SUNY Oneonta.
The middle 50% of students who enrolled as freshmen in 2023 scored between 23 and 28.
This student’s ACT score of 21 is okay. A bump would help, but a lot of students with this score are accepted at this school.
The verdict: This score is okay.
Scenario 3: I want to go to Rutgers Camden.
The middle 50% of students who enrolled as freshmen in 2023 scored between 18 and 26.
This student’s ACT score of 21 is well within range, so although the student could improve her chances of admission with a score boost, her score is perfectly in line with the school’s averages.
The verdict: This score is good.
How can I figure out what to study to boost my ACT scores?
The next section on your score report offers detailed results:
Source: ACT, Inc.
This breaks your performance down by topic or question type, which can help you decide which areas you need to focus on the most during your ACT prep sessions. Here are some things to pay attention to:
Ready to start your ACT prep? Check out these posts for help:
What else will my ACT score report tell me?
The ACT score report offers a bunch of additional information beyond your scores:
Stats on retesting with the ACT (fun fact: more than half of students see score increases if they take the test again).
If your still can’t make heads or tails out of your ACT score report, don’t worry! We’ll be happy to go through it with you. Find your local 宝博体育 Education center, and schedule a free consultation.
Can You Improve Your GPA in One Semester?
HIGH SCHOOL, STUDY SKILLS, TUTORINGYour GPA is more than just a number: It’s a reflection of your grades and a big deal in college admissions and scholarship options. If you want to increase your GPA fast, the good news is it’s possible to improve your grades in one semester.
This will cover everything you need to know, including how GPAs are calculated, weighted courses, and action steps to help you get started.
How GPAs Are Calculated
Before diving into strategies for improving your GPA, it’s important to understand how it’s calculated. GPAs can be unweighted or weighted, and different high schools may use slightly different systems. To get accurate and specific details about your school’s GPA calculation method, it’s always recommended to consult your guidance counselor.
<tdC
To calculate your unweighted GPA:
You’ll need to add your calculated GPA with your current GPA, and average those scores to see how much you can improve your score.
How to Calculate Weighted GPAs
The letter grading scale changes for weighted courses, but how they’re calculated typically changes depending on the type of class you’re taking. Below is an example of how some schools may calculate weighted GPA.
To calculate your weighted GPA:
This will account for the difficulty of your classes and give a more accurate measure of your grades. Again, you’ll need to add the calculated GPA with your current GPA, then find the average to see how much you can improve your score.
Remember, each school has its own grading scale, so be sure to check with your school’s guidelines to make sure you’re calculating your GPA correctly.
How Do Weighted Courses Affect GPA?
Weighted classes take into account the difficulty of the class when calculating grades. They give extra points, so doing well in these classes can add a few points to your GPA. But, keep in mind, while weighted classes can add to your GPA, they can also subtract from it if you struggle.
You don’t have to take the corresponding AP exam to get a weighted score and improve your GPA. The AP exam itself doesn’t affect your GPA at all. Weighted classes show you’re willing to take on more challenging material, and how well you can do in a tough academic environment.
How Much Can You Boost Your GPA in One Semester?
How much you can bump your GPA in one semester depends on many things: your grades, the types of classes you take and the number of those classes. Be realistic, and know that if you have a lower starting GPA, you may see quicker improvement than someone with a higher GPA.
For example, let’s say Student A’s starting GPA is 3.5 and Student B’s starting 2.5.
If Student A takes four unweighted classes, and earn the following scores:
Their total grade points per class for the the current semester would be as follows:
This gives them a total of 49 grade points by the end of the semester. Divide the total grade points by the total number of credit hours taken to get the GPA for that semester. That would bring their GPA to 3.769, but we’ll round it up to 3.77.
Does this mean the student’s overall GPA will now be 3.77? No, that’s just their GPA for this semester. To find their new GPA for the school year, you’ll need to find the average of their previous semester and the current semester. To do this, add 3.5 to 3.77 to get 7.27, then divide it by 2 for an overall GPA of 3.63
Let’s say Student B takes the same number of unweighted classes and earns the same scores. We’ll work through the same process, just switch out the original GPA. This brings their 2.5 up to a 3.13.
But, wait. If they earned the same score in the same classes, why did Student B have a bigger jump than Student A? The simple answer is Student A started on the higher end of the grading scale. It takes more effort to see meaningful improvement since lower scores – like an A- or even a B – don’t carry as much weight for them as an A or A+.
Since Student B started on the lower end, even earning a C can make a noticeable difference in their GPA. They have much more room for improvement than their counterparts, so the boost is large in comparison. Remember, be realistic about your goals based on your abilities and the classes you’re in. Consistent effort, good study habits and seeking help when needed will help you maximize your GPA bump and be successful.
4 Tips to Help Boost Your GPA
Improving your GPA isn’t a one time thing; it’s a process that takes time and consistent effort. Everyone’s academic journey is unique and progress won’t always come as fast or as easy as you want. Instead of getting discouraged, embrace the process, be willing to try new things, and prepare to put in the work.
You may have to try new study techniques, seek out extra resources, or even explore subjects that challenge you. Getting out of your comfort zone allows for growth and can lead to epiphanies and academic success.
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will your GPA. Be patient with yourself, celebrate small wins along the way, and stay committed to your academic goals. With consistent effort and willingness to try new things, you can get the score you want.
Work with a Tutor and Set Realistic Goals
Teachers may not have the time to give you one on one attention, but working with a tutor can give you insight from subject matter experts in a more focused setting. Tutors work with fewer students so they can tailor the session to your needs. They can help you develop good study habits, set realistic goals and keep you on track with your academic and college plans throughout your sessions.
Take Challenging Classes That Interest You
While weighted classes can be tough, taking classes you’re interested in can improve your overall performance, focus and motivation. When you have a real interest in the subject matter you’ll put in more time and effort to understand the material and get better grades.
Join a Study Group (and Teach Each Other)
Studying with classmates can be a great support system and you can hear different perspectives on the course material. Taking turns teaching each other and learning from their explanations can solidify your understanding of the key concepts, identify knowledge gaps and find new ways to simplify the material for others. Study groups can also be a great resource to review past tests, quizzes and assignments.
Ask Questions in Class
Asking questions when you have them can help you understand better and get your teacher to present the material in a different way. Taking notes during lessons and these explanations can also help with retention as you’re more engaged with the material and reinforcing your understanding.
Boost Your GPA with 宝博体育 Education
At 宝博体育 Education we know academic success is key and every student can do it. Our one on one tutoring can give you the extra support you need to boost your GPA and achieve your academic goals. Whether you need help in a specific subject, test prep or overall study skills our tutors are here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t let anything hold you back – contact 宝博体育 Education today for more information.
Understanding SAT Scores: 15 Frequently Asked Questions
COLLEGE ADMISSIONSStudents planning for college often realize that the process is both exciting and stressful. Those who aspire to go to the best universities face an extremely competitive process. Often, the admissions process will involve taking the SAT, a multiple-choice test administered by the College Board, a non-profit organization. However, understanding SAT scores can be a challenge. So, we took the time to answer 15 frequently asked questions about SAT scores.
1. What are SAT scores?
The total SAT score is reported on a 1600-point scale. It represents a student’s performance on the Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing sections of the test.
2. How are SAT scores calculated?
The SAT is made up of two sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Each section includes 2 modules. Performance on these sections determines a student’s overall SAT score.
Reading and writing are combined into a single score for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW). The two math modules are combined into a single Math score. Each of these areas is scored on a scale from 200 to 800 points.
Scores from these two sections are added together to arrive at a total SAT score ranging from 400 to 1600 points.
A student who scores perfectly in both sections will earn a 1600 on the SAT.
The SAT score report also includes percentile rankings and college readiness benchmarks.
Your percentile ranking indicates how well you performed compared to other test-takers. For example, if your percentile ranking is 73%, that means that you scored higher than or equal to 73% of test-takers.
College readiness benchmarks indicate whether you are on track to succeed in college. They are intended to help students identify the areas where they need to make improvements in order to be ready for the rigor of college-level work.
3. What are the average SAT scores?
Average SAT scores differ from year to year. The College Board publishes an annual report that analyzes SAT performance for all U.S. test-takers and for subgroups by gender, ethnicity, family income, school type, and state.
These average scores are based on the SAT Suite of Assessments Annual Report for 2024:
These numbers represent the 50th percentile for all U.S. test-takers. If you took the SAT in 2024 and scored above 1010, you scored in the top half of all test-takers, which means your score was above average.
4. What is a good SAT score?
A “good” SAT score could be defined based on your percentile ranking. In other words, you could assess your SAT performance based on how well other test-takers did. The higher your percentage, the better your score.
But a better definition for a “good” SAT score depends on your college goals. Different colleges have different expectations for SAT scores. At many excellent schools, the majority of students might score in the 1200 to 1300 range; at highly selective schools, the majority of admitted students score in the 1500s.
Although SAT scores are often a very important factor in admission decisions, top SAT scores are never a guarantee of admission. SAT scores are one part of a review process that also evaluates your grades, course selections, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, essays, and more.
5. Is my SAT score more important than my grades?
No. In fact, many colleges remain test optional, meaning that students can apply for admission without submitting SAT scores at all (although submitting strong SAT scores still enhances a student’s application).
The College Board has conducted large-scale studies that demonstrate that “using SAT scores in conjunction with [high school grades] is the most powerful way to predict future academic performance.” This is one reason why many selective schools have chosen to return to test required policies. In other words, BOTH grades and SAT scores are important.
6. What SAT score do I need?
That depends on your college goals. Just as there is a wide range of colleges—from large public universities to small liberal arts colleges and everything in between—there is a wide range of acceptable SAT scores.
Most colleges publish information about the test scores for accepted students, giving you a range known as the “median score range,” sometimes called the “middle 50%.” 1 in 4 admitted students will have scored below this range; 1 in 4 will have scored above this range; and the remaining students will have scored within this range.
This data offers insight into what SAT score is considered competitive at your chosen colleges. We advise students to strive for a score that is above the 75th percentile at their dream college.
7. How do my SAT scores compare?
To get an idea of how your SAT scores compare to other test-takers, you’ll need to look at your College Board report. On the front side of the report, you’ll see a number between 1 and 99. This number represents the percentage of students whose scores are equal to or lower than yours.
For example, if the percentile you receive for the Math section is 50%, you should interpret this to mean that 50% of test-takers have scored equal to or lower than you did.
8. Can I get my SAT scores double-checked?
The College Board provides what it calls “very careful and systematic quality control processes” to ensure that your score is accurate. Test-takers who want to double-check their scores can access score verification services. To request a score verification service, you will need to complete a request for a SAT score verification form.
There is a score verification fee. As of January 2020, the fee is $55 to verify the scoring of multiple-choice sections.
9. How and when do I find out my SAT scores?
The multiple-choice test results are typically released 13 days after the test date. (The June test date results often take slightly longer.)
Students can access their scores here.
Scores more than a year old are considered “old SAT scores” and are archived. If you need old SAT score reports, you can request them from the College Board by phone or email.
To access your old SAT scores, you will be charged the regular score report free of $12 per report. Added to this is an archive fee of $31, making the total cost $43.
You can order a rush score report if you need an old score to be sent to a college or an employer quickly (2-4 days). You will pay the regular report fee of $12, an archive fee of $31, and an extra $31, making the total cost $74 (Source).
10. What do I do if I am having problems accessing my score?
Before calling the College Board for help, take these steps:
11. What options do I have if I feel that my SAT score may not reflect my best performance?
Your best bet is to simply plan to take the SAT again. Create a study plan and prepare thoroughly before retaking the test. Policies like these mean that your disappointingly low score is unlikely to affect your college admission chances:
Regardless of your school’s policies, you may want to consider canceling the free score reports that you opted to send to your top choice colleges. You can do this through your student portal on the College Board’s website.
It is possible to cancel your scores if you act quickly—but there are very few situations in which it is to your best advantage to cancel scores:
If you cancel your scores, you’ll never find out how you did—think carefully before you cancel. If you do decide to cancel, you have until 11:59 pm Eastern Standard Time on the first Thursday following the test.
12. How do I send my SAT scores to colleges?
The majority of colleges have a policy stipulating that official reports must be sent to them directly from the College Board. This means that you cannot send copies of online scores or score report labels on transcripts.
You need to sign in to the College Board’s website to submit your scores.
13. Do all colleges use SAT scores in the same way?
Colleges have different admission processes and different policies on how they use SAT scores.
SAT test-optional colleges allow applicants to decide whether or not to submit their scores.
Among those colleges that require test scores, many accept the College Board’s Score Choice option. Score Choice allows you to choose which score reports to send to colleges.
Below is a video from the College Board explaining Score Choice.
Not all schools allow Score Choice—some require that you submit all of your test scores.
Colleges also have different score use policies:
14. What can I do to get a high SAT score in my first attempt?
15. Can I get a scholarship for my SAT score?
Some colleges automatically award scholarships based on SAT or ACT scores, sometimes including other qualifiers like GPA. You don’t need to submit any extra application information to be eligible for these types of scholarships, but sometimes you must meet a particular deadline to qualify. Be sure to do your research!
College Admissions: What to Do & When
COLLEGE ADMISSIONSA lot of students think of “college admissions” as “applying to college,” but the college admissions process starts long before you start filling out applications. We’ve broken down some of the biggest college admissions milestones to help you stay on track on the road to college.
Throughout High School – All Four Years
There are certain things that you should do every single year in order to thoroughly prepare for college while building a really strong college application:
Maintain a rigorous class schedule
Challenge yourself with tough classes to really show colleges what you’re made of. Take the toughest classes you think you can reasonably excel in.
Keep your grades up
Your grades throughout high school tell admission officers a lot about your commitment to academics, your abilities, and your mastery of certain subjects – grades certainly aren’t the only thing colleges look at, but they count for a lot.
Don’t overlook extracurricular activities
College admissions considerations don’t end with the final bell of the school day. Colleges seek applicants who are involved in their schools and communities, who demonstrate leadership skills, and who know how to balance their academic and non-academic responsibilities. The best way to demonstrate these attributes is to find a few extracurricular activities that truly interest you and to pursue these activities throughout high school. Don’t just join a bunch of clubs and teams because you think colleges will like them – if you’re going to dedicate a lot of time to something, it should be something you enjoy.
Junior Year – Fall
First semester of junior year is typically the time when students “get serious” about the whole college admissions process. With just a year to go before it’s time to fill out applications, it’s crunch time:
Take the PSAT/NMSQT
Check out our recent post for more info.
Start your SAT and/or ACT prep
It might be a good idea to take both tests since some students seem to have a natural affinity for one test over the other. Regardless of whether you take both tests or just one, plan to sit for more than one test date so that you can submit your best scores. For advice about which tests to take and how best to prepare, contact your local 宝博体育 Education center for a consultation!
Research your options
It’s time to start figuring out where you want to apply. Remember to consider many different variables beyond prestige, rankings, or your favorite NCAA teams, including cost, location, school size, and programs offered. Be sure to include colleges that are safety schools (those you’re pretty sure you’d get accepted at), reach schools (those you think you might possibly get accepted at, but the odds aren’t spectacular), and match schools (those where you fairly evenly match their accepted students in grades and test scores).
Visit schools
If big trips just aren’t in the cards, stick with local schools. Even if you aren’t interested in applying, these visits can help you figure out what to look for in a college.
Junior Year – Spring
If you’ve laid the groundwork in fall semester, spring semester should be pretty busy:
Register for and take the SAT and/or ACT
Taking your admission tests now gives you plenty of time to retake the tests if you want higher scores. It’s a good idea to plan for a second test date because many students perform better on their second try.
Prepare for and take AP exams
It is the exam score – not your grade in the class – that determines whether or not you become eligible for college credit. Make your test score count! Learn more about AP prep here.
Narrow down your list of colleges
You should aim for no more than 10 to 15 colleges on your finalized list. Be sure to consider all factors, including cost, graduation rates, location, size, and programs.
Summer After Junior Year
Don’t waste your last high school summer. Make it count towards college admissions:
Visit potential colleges
If at all possible, travel to your possible schools to see first-hand what they’re like. After all, the school you attend will be your home for several years, so you should make sure you really like it.
Detail your application plans
Figure out application deadlines, weigh your options regarding Early Action and Early Decision programs (read more on that here), and mark your calendar to be sure that you have all the pieces of your applications in place when you need them.
Start on your application essays
A college application essay is not a writing task that can easily be completed in just a few hours. To do it right takes weeks of careful planning, writing, and revision. Check out our recent blog posts for college application essay tips.
Research your financial aid options
Use the net price calculators offered on college websites to estimate your out of pocket costs and explore your financial aid options.
Apply for scholarships
Depending on your college’s policies, scholarships may help to defray your college costs.
Senior Year – Fall
The finish line is finally in sight – don’t lost momentum now!
Identify teachers for recommendations
Do not wait to the last minute – teachers are busy, and you want to give them plenty of time to craft a compelling recommendation for you. Try to give teachers/coaches at least a month’s notice before the deadline. Do the legwork for them by offering them a bulleted list explaining why you chose them and how you feel you performed in their classes; prepare a packet that includes all the information they might need, such as application deadlines, forms, and a stamped addressed envelope for each recommendation.
Take the SAT and/or ACT again
Especially if you weren’t 100% satisfied with your earlier scores, now is a good time to give these tests another go. Remember that most schools won’t take scores for testing dates later than January – taking these tests earlier in the fall leaves you at least one more test date if you really need to take the test one more time.
Revise your college application essays
Now is the time to ask for some outside input from teachers, counselors, or 宝博体育 tutors. Be sure to eliminate any and all errors and ask for advice on the content of the essay from those who are familiar with the college admissions process.
Follow your college application plan
Be sure to meet any early deadlines that you’ve planned for. To help ease the process, gather all of your materials (forms, essays, test scores, recommendations, transcripts, etc.) in advance.
If needed, submit your CSS Profile
Some schools require a CSS Profile for students applying early. This is a financial aid form comparable to the FAFSA.
Senior Year – Spring
The end is near – just a few more steps:
Submit any remaining college applications
Some schools have deadlines that fall as late as March – be sure to stay on top of all of your application deadlines.
Complete and submit the FAFSA and any school-based financial aid forms
The sooner you submit your FAFSA, the better – some schools give aid on a first-come-first-serve basis. Don’t forget to follow up by submitting updated tax information once your parents have filed their taxes for the year.
Play the waiting game
One of the hardest parts of the entire process is waiting for decisions to arrive. While you wait, be sure to maintain your grades!
Compare financial aid packages from the schools where you received admission
If needed – for instance, if your family’s financial circumstances have changed – reach out to financial aid offices to appeal their offers.
Pick your school
Weigh your options carefully to be sure that you’re choosing the best school for you. Don’t be swayed by prestige or rankings – make your decision based on program offerings, financial aid, location, and fit.
Take your AP exams
Remember that course credit is offered based on these scores!
Maintain your grades
Schools can rescind offers of admission if your grades plummet.
Pay attention to deadlines
Submit all enrollment paperwork and deposits on time.
For more college admission resources, check out this page. Good luck, students!
3 Reasons You Should Take a Proctored Practice ACT or SAT Test
TEST PREPIf you’re a high school sophomore, chances are you’re planning to take a practice ACT or SAT test. However, if you’re planning on taking that practice test on a home computer, think again. There are a few good reasons why setting aside a weekend morning to sit for a proctored practice test is in your best interest. If you’ve been working on SAT or ACT tutoring, sitting for a proctored practice exam is the logical next step in your preparations. Here’s why.
It Simulates the Real Thing
When you take a practice test at home, you don’t truly get a sense of what the actual test will feel like. At home, you may be distracted by a sibling or a blaring TV. You can get up and grab a snack if your stomach growls. You may experience internet issues. On the other hand, if you sit for a proctored exam, you’ll experience the real deal.
You’ll Build Confidence
Likewise, an at-home practice test allows you to rush through the exam, because you can move at your own pace. In a proctored, full practice test, you’ll be required to sit through the entire time allotted for each section, meaning you’ll learn how to better utilize your time and build confidence for the SAT.
It Helps You Decide Which Test to Focus on
When you take the time to simulate both tests, you’ll get a better idea of which test you should focus on during your preparation. Perhaps you have an easier time and score better on your practice ACT. You can then dedicate more time to studying for the ACT instead of giving equal attention to both.
Sure, your weekends are already crammed with studying, activities, and time with friends. But sacrificing a morning for a proctored practice exam is well worth your time.
Focus on Success with 宝博体育
At 宝博体育 Education, we offer proctored SAT and ACT practice exams. Stop by your local 宝博体育 Education Center today, or call us at (888) 339-5205 to learn more about scheduling one. When a test means this much, preparation is key.
How Do You Know If Your Child Needs a Tutor
STUDY SKILLS, TUTORINGAcademic struggles can manifest differently in every child. In some cases, it could be your child losing interest in their schoolwork. In others, it could appear as behavioral issues. This can make it difficult to accurately identify when your child needs extra academic support.
Being actively engaged in your child’s education could help you notice issues before they worsen. Your child may do better in some subjects than others, so understanding their baseline can help notice changes in their performance and quickly intervene. Working with a tutor can be an excellent way to help your child overcome current barriers and build the skills to succeed in higher education.
What Age is the Best to Get a Tutor?
Your child can benefit from a tutor at any age. Tutors can help your child overcome immediate barriers, build healthy study habits and reshape how they view themselves. This can improve your child’s relationship with learning in the future.
Tutors can help bring out the best in your child by providing personalized support and guidance. They encourage your child to tackle unfamiliar problems logically, make educated guesses, and be open to learning from mistakes. These are valuable skills that can benefit your child at any age.
5 Signs Your Child Could Use a Tutor
Signs your child may need a tutor appear in many ways. While each child is different, there are some commonalities to keep in mind. If you spot any of these signs in your child, it could be a clue they could benefit from tutoring.
There’s a Drastic Change in Their Academic Performance.
Your child’s academic performance can be impacted by changes happening in and out of school. As they progress through their studies, your child will encounter new and challenging concepts. If your child is underperforming in subjects where they previously excelled, a tutor can help them get back on track.
Working with a tutor can provide a low-stress environment where your child can improve their understanding of different subjects. They can freely ask questions, test theories, develop new habits, and take risks without fear of being judged. As their comprehension improves, so will their confidence in their abilities. The skills and habits they build during their time with a tutor can better prepare your child for success in higher education.
Major life changes such as parents divorcing, changing schools, or even a death in the family can impact your child’s academic performance. The stress caused by these events could make it more difficult for them to focus during class or care about their grades. Working with a tutor can help your child better engage with coursework and improve their attitude toward learning.
They Seem Disinterested in School.
Your child may stop talking about school or avoid speaking about their day in detail. You may notice they seem to put off doing their homework or seem generally unengaged in their academic life. These could be signs that your child is struggling with the material, or they’re burned out.
With so much emphasis placed on academic performance, your child may become overwhelmed and lose their passion for learning.
Tutors can provide your child with the extra support and attention they may not receive at school. Since they work with smaller groups than teachers, they can provide your child with the extra support and attention they may not receive at school. They may serve as a listening ear for your child to gain insight into challenges they’re facing. This can help them identify whether any of these challenges contribute to their burnout. If so, they can leverage these insights when creating upcoming lesson plans.
Tutors can also provide structured study sessions, so your child feels less overwhelmed as they work through their assignments. The pace of these sessions can be adjusted as necessary to help reduce any stress your student may feel when tackling more difficult subjects. During these sessions, your child can learn how to better balance their workload, develop healthier study habits and manage school-related stress.
They’re Behaving Differently at Home.
Stress from academic struggles can lead to changes in a child’s behavior. They may become irritable, easily frustrated, or even lash out. If your child is displaying behavioral changes that are out of character, it could be linked to stress they may be under at school.
As a parent or guardian, you know your child best. If you notice a significant shift in their behavior, it’s important to address it and consider seeking additional support for them. Early academic intervention can reduce your child’s stress by addressing any underlying issues and giving them clear next steps on how to improve.
They Have Trouble Completing Homework or Studying Effectively.
If homework time is turning into a nightly battle or your child seems overwhelmed when studying for tests, it could be a sign they need some extra help. A tutor can teach your child study skills and techniques that work best for their learning style. They can also provide support with specific subject material to make time spent on homework more productive and less stressful.
They Start Losing Confidence in Themselves.
If your child is experiencing academic struggles, it could take a toll on their self-esteem. They may feel like they are falling behind or not smart enough to keep up with their peers. This can lead to a vicious cycle of low self-confidence and even less motivation to learn.
A tutor can provide positive reinforcement, personalized attention, and help your child build key skills and knowledge. As they see improvements in their academic performance, their confidence will grow alongside it.
How Can Tutoring Benefit Your Child?
If you see any of these signs in your child, it’s probably time to start working with a tutor. Remember, tutoring is about more than just the immediate struggle. The habits and skills they develop now can better prepare them for higher education.
Tutors have the time and space that teachers may not have to tailor learning opportunities to your child’s unique abilities and learning styles. They can take complex material and make it more digestible for your child based on assessments of their prior knowledge and skills.
Your child can benefit from individualized attention. Tutors can tailor each session to your child’s abilities to give individualized feedback and support in a low-stress learning environment. Without grades attached to learning goals, your child may feel more comfortable making mistakes.
Schools try to provide structured learning environments, but with frequent interruptions, it can be challenging for some children to thrive. Tutoring centers and virtual learning environments provide a more structured environment to improve your child’s chances of immediate and long-term academic success.
Can I Book a Tutor Before I See These Signs?
Absolutely! Working with a tutor before issues occur can help your child continue to perform at the best. Their expertise can help your child adjust to the new demands of each grade level and identify any learning gaps before they turn into major obstacles. This can keep their stress levels at a minimum while enriching their learning experience.
Keep Your Child on Track with Expert Tutors
When your child shows signs of needing additional support, tutoring is one of the best options. Keep an open line of communication with your child, so they feel comfortable reaching out when they need help. The best thing you can do is make sure they know they’re not on their academic journey alone.
Working with a tutor from 宝博体育 Education, you can give your child access to the academic support they need to thrive. Our programs use proven techniques to assess the gaps in your child’s knowledge and skills to design a personalized program. We offer tutoring services for children of all ages in need of additional support beyond what teachers and parents can provide.
If you see any of these signs in your child, reach out to schedule your consultation today!
On the Bright Side: Handling a Bad SAT or ACT score
ON THE BRIGHT SIDEIf you’re a high school student planning to apply to college, you’ve probably got college admissions tests on the brain.
Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
How can I prep for the SAT or the ACT?
And, most worrisome of all…
What if I bomb the SAT or ACT?
For students who do well in school and just can’t seem to get those high test scores, this is no small worry. After all, SAT and ACT scores are among the top factors in admissions decisions. Fear not! You can take steps to ensure college success even if your SAT or ACT scores stink.
If your applications are due…
Test prep just isn’t an option if your applications are due now, but all is not lost. First, take a deep breath and remind yourself that while test scores are important, grades and course rigor count for a lot. How you’ve performed in four years’ worth of high-level courses almost always outweighs how you performed during a single test. Even if your test scores aren’t where they really should be in order to be competitive at your dream college, apply anyway! The test scores published by colleges usually represent the middle 50% of admitted students, so 1 in 4 admitted students scored below that range. Take the chance.
At the same time, hedge your bets. Do some research to identify possible safety schools where your low SAT or ACT scores won’t be a problem. Safety schools are important to every student, no matter what their test scores look like!
Don’t forget to consider test flexible or test optional colleges. Hundreds of highly ranked colleges have deemphasized test scores in their admissions processes. Check out these resources to explore more:
If you’ve still got time to bring scores up…
Although the SAT and the ACT are intended to test the same knowledge and skills that you learn in high level classes, a lot of high-performing students just don’t see their academic skills reflected in their test scores. Sometimes there’s a gap in knowledge that just doesn’t show up in current course grades. Other times a lack of test-taking skills causes students to freeze up, run out of time, and second guess themselves. Regardless of the root cause, if you’ve still got a few months before you need to have your final test scores, SAT or ACT prep can do wonders.
Even the College Board, purveyor of the SAT, has recognized the value of good test prep: A College Board study found that students increased their SAT scores by an average of 115 points after 20 hours of online test prep. Online resources like Khan Academy can offer a good score boost. If that’s not enough, in-person customized test prep like that offered at 宝博体育 Education can help to shore up fundamental skills and build test-taking abilities.