Should students take the ACT or the SAT or both?
Colleges are interested in having as much data as they can about prospective students; however, it is not always necessary to take both exams. Sometimes, a diagnostic in both exams – or in other cases, a strong personal preference – will determine which test is likely to produce the stronger result. But it is not always easy to anticipate which exam will present the best academic picture of a student. In these cases, we recommend that the student prepare for the SAT first. Most of the skills gained studying for one test are transferable to the other, so time is never “wasted” preparing for both.
When should students take the exam(s)?
Because the PSAT is given in October of junior year, it is wise to prepare for the SAT in the first semester of junior year. Also, there are math topics tested on the ACT that some students do not study until the second half of junior year. These topics include trigonometry, logarithms, complex numbers, asymptotes, and matrices. For this reason, taking the SAT in the fall and the ACT in the spring is advisable for many students.
How much tutoring will a student need?
The amount of tutoring a student will need depends on the scores he or she has achieved to date, if any, and what target goals we have established for him or her. The average amount of time our students spend preparing for one exam is 10 to 12 weeks; however, this varies greatly. We have found that starting early, especially with math, can help ensure that students reach their goals.
How long are sessions?
Typically, we tutor students for a total of two hours each week, one hour in reading and writing and one hour in math.
What is the cost?
We have a standard hourly rate; however, we offer discounts to students wishing to pay in advance for a set number of sessions.
How will I know how my son or daughter is progressing?
We carefully record students’ scores on practice tests, and either have monthly conference calls with parents or meet with them in person as needed.