Score At The Top Blog

The most effective way to prepare for the SAT (and the ACT, for that matter) is to start early because doing so opens up opportunities that diminish and disappear as time passes. An early start gives you time to take multiple SAT practice tests; identify areas of weakness and what, in particular, to study in order to improve; and to take multiple actual SATs (see below for why we suggest at least three) on a convenient schedule that’s unavailable to late-starters.

Topics: ACT, ACT/SAT, SAT

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It’s back…. The SAT, that is. For the first time in seven years, more students are taking the SAT than the ACT, a surge in popularity attributed to the SAT’s alignment with the Common Core and its last makeover to appear more like the ACT. Indeed, both tests share about 80% of content spanning the four major areas tested (math, science, reading, and writing). However, some key differences remain – as do questions about the importance and relevancy of college admission testing.

Topics: ACT, College Admission, ACT/SAT, SAT

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We're asked this question all the time, ultimately, it depends on where you're applying. Thanks to our friend Cignas Vanni for compiling a fairly comprehensive list of schools that require or recommend submitting an essay from the SAT/ACT. FYI, as far as colleges go, "recommend" means "require." Without further adieu, here's the list:  

Topics: ACT, ACT/SAT, SAT

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Are you a high school junior and possible candidate for the National Merit Scholarship, but unable to take the PSAT/NMSQT test on the October national test date? There’s now an alternative action to pursue.

Topics: Test-Prep, College Planning, SAT

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What is the SAT Superscore?

Let's begin by briefly explaining how to superscore the SAT. As an example, we will assume you took the SAT three times and obtained the following scores:

Topics: Test Scores, ACT/SAT, SAT

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Parents often ask us what kind of “return” their students will get for the hours and dollars spent in our test-prep workshops and private tutoring. While every child’s test prep experience is unique, we know that our test-prep work leads students to score at the top of their potential. We’d like to share a concrete example.

Topics: ACT, ACT/SAT, Test-Prep, Tutoring, SAT

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Taking the SATs is an important step for getting into college. Studying is key, and practice tests help you prepare and calm your nerves. However, if sitting at a desk with a thick textbook is not your style, consider some alternate routes.

Technology is making studying interesting, diverse and easily accessible. You do not have to buy an expensive study guide but rather you can download free apps to your smartphone or tablet so you can study anywhere, anytime. Get the most out of your study time and use these tools to secure a higher score and a brighter future.

Topics: Study Tips, Test-Prep, SAT

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Through its Suncoast Foundation, Suncoast High School in Riviera Beach, Florida, tapped Score At The Top to provide an eight-week, 24-hour SAT prep course to 150 of its students. The students took two simulated exams as part of the course of preparation. Suncoast compared the results of the first simulated exam with students’ results from Palm Beach County’s February 26 SAT test administration.

Topics: Test-Prep, Tutoring, Private-School, SAT

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For students considering any state university in Florida or one of the eight Ivy League universities, the answer is likely to be a resounding NO! That is, of course, under the assumption that the colleges that currently require ACT’s optional essay will also require SAT’s optional essay.

While the overwhelming majority of universities in the USA do not require the ACT essay, many of the more popular “name brand” colleges do. So, without further ado, here’s a well researched list compiled by Cigus Vanni, counselor at Cherry Hill High School West in New Jersey. Permission to duplicate and share freely and happily given.

Topics: Test-Prep, SAT

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We’re asked all the time by both parents and students, “When’s the best time to take the SAT?” Our response echoes the College Board’s own recommendation to high school students: if you’re a high school junior, now is the time to get cracking!

Topics: Test-Prep, SAT

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