SAT math tutor Charlotte NC

PSAT vs. SAT: How Are They Different?

PSAT vs. SAT: How Are They Different?

The SAT and PSAT are pretty similar tests, but we'll outline four key differences you should know before you take these exams. The SAT is typically a test for which Juniors and Seniors in high school spend more time studying, whereas the PSAT can serve as a practice and a litmus for the SAT.


SATs are Just Around the Corner 

SATs are Just Around the Corner 

At Vint Hill Education, we take immense pride in being leaders in private in-home and online SAT and ACT tutoring, with a track record that speaks for itself. We recognize that every child is unique, with their own set of academic strengths and weaknesses. It is because of these differences that we firmly believe a one-size-fits-all approach, such as a commercial classroom course, may not fully meet your child's specific needs.

What To Do Summer Before Junior Year of High School

What To Do Summer Before Junior Year of High School

Don’t know what to do summer before junior year of high school? Here are 10 awesome ideas to give you a head start!

Your SAT Score Report Explained

Your SAT Score Report Explained

The top portion of your score report contains a big black number. This is your SAT Score, also referred to as your total score. Next to your score are the numbers 400–1600, indicating that the range of possible scores on the SAT is 400–1600. To the right of your total score is your score percentile, telling you what percentage of students who took the test did better or worse than you. In small type below your score is your Score Range…

Summer ACT/SAT Preparation

Summer ACT/SAT Preparation

Test prep in the summer prior to junior year isn’t for all students, but it’s a good idea for those students who are targeting an early fall test date in their junior year, as well as those who feel that they need extra help in certain subject areas before taking a first test later in their junior year. The first step is to take baseline diagnostic tests for both the SAT and the ACT to determine which test is best for you. Once you have baseline scores, a tutor will work with you to determine an appropriate test date to target as well as to develop a testing plan.

Avoid These 4 End-of-Junior-Year Mistakes!

Avoid These 4 End-of-Junior-Year Mistakes!

Remember, the more you prepare before senior year, the more you’ll be able to enjoy it!

What is the Average SAT Score?

What is the Average SAT Score?

When people talk about average SAT scores, they usually have three scores in mind: the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) score, the Math score, and the composite, or total, score.

You’ll see other scores on your SAT score report that measure how well you performed in specific areas of ERW or Math, but to keep things simple, this post focuses on the big three: ERW, Math, and total.

To learn more about all the SAT scores, visit the Score Structure page.

SAT Section Scores and Total Scores

The SAT has two required sections: ERW and Math. Each section is scored on a scale of 200–800, so when you take the test, you’ll get two section scores—one for ERW and one for Math.

You’ll also get a total score. This is your ERW score plus your Math score. Total scores range from 400 to 1600.

Calculating the SAT Average

The national average, or mean, SAT scores for a graduating class are calculated by adding up the scores of every student in that class who took the SAT and dividing by the number of test takers.

SAT Score National Averages for the Class of 2021

  • ERW: 533

  • Math: 528

  • Total SAT score: 1061

 

SAT Averages vs. SAT Percentiles

The national average SAT scores show you whether scores are trending up or down compared to previous years. But they don’t tell you much about your own scores.

National percentiles, on the other hand, show you where you stand in relation to other students. They range from 1 to 99 and indicate the percentage of students who scored the same as or lower than you. So the higher your percentile, the better you did.

You’ll see two types of percentiles on your score report: the nationally representative sample percentile and the SAT user percentile.

The sample percentile compares your score to the predicted scores if all students were to take the SAT. Because some students, like those not planning on going to college, may not take the SAT, we conduct research studies to estimate what their scores would be.

The user percentile compares your score to the actual scores of recent high school graduates who took the SAT during high school. If your percentile is 75, that means your score is as high or higher than the scores of 75% of students who took the SAT.

Because your user percentile shows how you performed compared to other students who may be applying to the same colleges you are, it can help you decide whether to try to improve your score by taking the test again.

How to Improve Your SAT Score

If you’re not happy with your SAT results, try working with an SAT tutor and improving your study tools before retaking the test. Research shows that just 12-18 hours of SAT tutoring could help your total score go up an average of 120 points.

Remember: SAT scores are just one thing colleges look at when deciding who to admit. Your grades, after-school activities, letters of recommendation, etc., give colleges a more complete picture of who you are.


2022 Mock Test Dates
with a Live Virtual Proctor 
 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:

  • ACT/SAT answer sheet

  • ACT/SAT test booklet

  • Testing instructions

Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.

Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.

Mock ACT test dates:

April 16, 2022

May 21, 2022

 

Mock SAT test dates:

April 9, 2022

May 14, 2022


We offer one-to-one in-home test prep which encompasses all subject areas. This is ideal for students looking to achieve the largest score increases. Tutoring sessions are customized based upon the student’s strengths and weaknesses, which are revealed by having the student take one of our practice baseline tests or by submitting official score reports from previous tests. Our 36-hour program includes unlimited full-length practice test reports, unlimited course books, session notes for parents, and weekly homework assignments. Virtual prep is available through Lessonspace. Tutors can also meet students at our offices, local libraries, outdoor parks, or nearby coffee shops. *Our test prep tutors must pass ACT/SAT/SSAT/ISEE/HSPT diagnostic tests before being hired. We hand-pick the best tutor for your child based upon our matching process.

Rules on SAT Test Day

What to Expect on SAT Test Day

All test centers follow the same procedures and rules, which you should get familiar with before test day.

Important:

SAT Essay

If you're unsure about taking the SAT Essay, you may be able to remove or add it on test day with your coordinator's permission—if test materials, rooms, and staff are available. If you‘re able to switch on test day, there may be fees (or even a refund). Learn about changing your registration information.

Not yet registered?

On test day, bring a face covering and wear it as directed by the test center. Remember to also practice social distancing at all times.

Be prepared to answer questions about your health prior to entering the test center. If you feel sick the day of your test, please stay home and contact customer service for your options. You won’t be charged a change or cancellation fee if you stay home due to illness.

Check your test center's website for any additional or specific entry requirements it may have. If you're traveling to test, it's your responsibility to know and follow any quarantine requirements or travel restrictions in the location where you're testing. Test centers may require proof that you've followed quarantine requirements and/or travel restrictions at check-in.

Get the latest SAT covid-19 updates and information during this time.

Check for Test Center Closings

Monitor test center closings in the days leading up to your test and the day of your test to make sure your test center hasn't changed or closed.

We also recommend you check directly with the test center, including the test center's website, on the morning of the test.

Doors Open at 7:45 a.m.

All test centers open at 7:45 a.m. and doors close at 8 a.m., unless otherwise noted on your admission ticket. You cannot be admitted once testing has started. If you're late or absent on test day, you can reschedule. We recommend rescheduling as opposed to reregistering—it will cost less. Find out more about changing your registration information. We are currently waiving all change fees.

Make sure you show up with everything you need.

Get the test day checklist.

Testing Starts Between 8:30 and 9 a.m.

Your seat is assigned, not chosen by you. Wait to be seated. Here’s what will happen next:

  • The test coordinator will read all instructions verbatim from a manual and can answer questions only about procedure, not about test questions or content.

  • The test coordinator will tell you when to start and stop working on each section.

  • You must work within each section of the test only for the time allotted.

  • You may not go back to a section once that section has ended.

  • You may not go ahead to a new section if you finish a section early.

  • Do not skip sections. Doing so may result in score cancellation, delays, or both.

  • After the test is finished, the test coordinator will collect and count the test books to make sure all materials have been turned in before dismissing you from the testing room.

Don’t be surprised if your test experience isn’t exactly like that of the student sitting next to you. The sections in your test book might be different.

Breaks

For most students, there is one 10-minute and one five-minute break during the test, the only times you can eat and drink.

  • Keep your ID and admission ticket with you at all times. They’ll be checked every time you enter the testing room.

  • Test books, answer sheets, and calculators must remain on your desk during breaks.

  • You can't use this time to power up devices, like cell phones—if you do, your scores will be canceled.

Dismissal

If you take the SAT with Essay, you’ll likely be done testing around 1 p.m. If you’re not taking the essay, you’ll likely be done around noon.

Devices

We mention cell phones and electronics often, and for good reason. Your scores will be canceled if you don’t follow the rules around devices.

Things to keep in mind:

  • Test administration staff reserves the right to collect and hold cell phones and other prohibited electronic devices during the test administration, including during break periods.

  • If your device makes noise, or if you are seen using it, or if you attempt to access it at any time, including breaks, you will be dismissed immediately, your scores can be canceled, and the device may be confiscated.

  • The College Board is not responsible for loss or damage to personal items, including electronic devices, while you are in the test center.



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Test Prep Deals

Buy Any Test-Prep Package, Get 3 Hours Free
Jan 2, 11:39 AM – Apr 30, 11:39 AM
Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 one-to-one test prep hours for free when you purchase a 12-hour package ($345 value). Please contact us to learn more by clicking the link below.

Contact us to schedule a 20-minute test prep phone consultation. We can also help decide on which test to take, ACT or SAT. After we provide our recommendation, we’ll hand-pick the best tutor for your student. Sessions can be held in-person or virtually through Lessonspace.

We are here to support! As we handle the academics, this gives you time to ensure they are ready for “the world”.




Spring 2021 SAT Test Day

What to Expect on SAT Test Day this Spring

As the spring SAT administration dates approach, we want to lessen the uncertainty that has resulted from the coronavirus. One way we can do this is by making sure you know what to expect leading up to test day.

Health and safety

Our top priorities are the health and safety of students and educators. Local schools and test centers make individual decisions about whether to administer the SAT. All weekend test centers must adhere to local public health guidelines and follow College Board requirements. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • You’ll need to bring a mask or protective face covering and will be required to wear it when you enter the test center and throughout the duration of testing. We recommend you bring a spare. You won't be allowed into the testing center unless you are wearing one. (Take a full-length practice test while wearing a mask before test day to prepare yourself for the test day experience.)

  • You’ll be required by test centers to be seated at least 6 feet away from other students.

  • Check your test center’s website for any additional health and safety measures so you’ll be prepared to follow them.

  • If you feel sick the day of your test, stay home. Contact customer service on the next business day for your options. You won’t be charged a change or cancellation fee if you stay home because you’re sick.

  • If we receive a report of a positive covid-19 case from someone at your test center, we will notify students and staff present on test day as well as local health authorities. Your information may be shared for contact tracing purposes if necessary.

 

To comply with local and College Board health and safety regulations, be ready to agree to the following when entering the test center or testing room:

  1. You don’t have covid-19 or reason to believe you have covid-19. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, muscle pain, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sore throat, and recent loss of taste or smell.

  2. In the past 14 days, you haven’t come into close contact—within 6 feet—of someone who tested positive for or is presumed to have covid-19.

  3. To your knowledge, you aren’t violating any travel restrictions or quarantining requirements.

  4. You promise to wear a mask the entire time you’re at this test site and follow instructions from testing staff.

  5. By entering the testing center and testing room, you accept the risk of covid-19 exposure. Although we’ve taken measures to create a safe environment, it’s impossible to remove all risk.

You should also check your test center's website for any additional or specific entry requirements it may have. 

If you're traveling to test, it's your responsibility to know and follow any quarantine requirements or travel restrictions in the location where you're testing. Test centers may require proof that you've followed quarantine requirements and/or travel restrictions at check-in. 

Students who violate requirements put in place by their test center or College Board will be dismissed from the test center, their scores will be cancelled, and they will not receive a refund. 

Communicating with you about test center closures and reduced capacity

Many locations will have reduced capacity because of social distancing guidelines. Unfortunately, we expect many test centers to encounter full or partial closures. We’re checking with test centers and asking them to report closures or reduced capacity as early as possible to ensure students are informed and to reduce uncertainty ahead of test day.

We’ll communicate changes about your test center’s status as quickly as possible. Students who are being moved to a different test center and students whose registrations are being canceled because a test center decides to close or reduce capacity will be directly notified by College Board. Be aware that there may be a delay between the test center closing and the email notification. In the days leading up to each test, we’ll give updates about test center closures as often as possible. We also suggest you check directly with the test center, and visit the test center’s website, the day before and morning of the test.

While your status in My SAT will be updated as frequently as possible, there may be delay with last-minute closings. Test centers may have closed or rescheduled to a makeup date at the last minute, even if there is still an active admission ticket. Please check this page, your email, and the test center's website the night before and the morning of the test, especially if you're planning to travel to your test center. 

We may need to get in touch with you if your test center makes the decision to close or reduce capacity between now and test day. Check your emails every day, and if you are in the U.S. opt in to receive texts. Here's how you can make sure we're able to contact you.

 

What to do if your SAT registration is canceled

Visit our website to register for a future test date. If you can’t find a seat at a nearby test center for your preferred date, be sure to check out other test dates.

See upcoming SAT dates here.

We know the virus has heightened the stress of applying to college for many. Colleges and universities understand that due to covid there are limited opportunities for students to take the SAT. Most aren't requiring test scores for the upcoming admissions cycle, and they’re rightfully extending deadlines and/or accepting scores after deadlines pass for students who choose to submit them. You can check college websites to get the most accurate information on their policies and deadlines.


Receive 3 Free One-To-One Test Prep Hours

Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 prep hours for free, when you purchase a 12-hour package ($345 value).

Contact us to schedule a 20-minute test prep phone consultation. We can also help decide on which test to take, ACT or SAT. After we provide our recommendation, we’ll hand-pick the best tutor for your student. Sessions can be held in-person or virtually through Lessonspace.


Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock tests for the ACT and SAT. These are taken in a group setting to simulate the testing environment. For the ACT and SAT, we will review the scores to see which test the student is scoring higher on. Since all colleges and universities accept both tests, it's beneficial to know if your child is scoring higher on the ACT or SAT. Check out our ACT versus SAT comparison chart for test differences. Sometimes the difference is like night and day, and for others, it may be a hairline higher on one versus the other. The student won't know which test is better, unless the individual takes one of each. We'll use our score concordance chart in order to make a test recommendation.


2020-2021 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES  

AS OF AUGUST 2020, WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.

PACKET INCLUDES:

  • ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET

  • ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET

  • *ACT/SAT ESSAY PROMPT

  • FOUR PAGES OF LINED PAPER

  • TEST INSTRUCTIONS

    *THE ACT/SAT ESSAY IS OPTIONAL. STUDENTS INTERESTED IN TAKING THE ACT/SAT ESSAY WILL CONTINUE ON WITH THE TEST AFTER THE FINAL MULTIPLE-CHOICE SECTION (ACT SCIENCE OR SAT MATH).

PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.

ALL ACT/SAT TESTS WILL BE PROCTORED VIRTUALLY THROUGH LESSONSPACE. THE DAY BEFORE EACH TEST, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAILED LINK TO JOIN THE VIRTUALLY PROCTORED TEST. THE TEST INSTRUCTIONS CAN BE USED SHOULD A STUDENT LOSE CONNECTION TO THE TESTING LOBBY.


ACT

Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below

Mock ACT test dates:

SAT

Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below.  :

Mock SAT test dates:


We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEEHSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils. 

We can send parents a practice test as well, to administer to their student in-home. We will send out a free practice test packet along with proctoring instructions. Parents must send the answer sheet back to us via email or mail. 

No More SAT Essays

College Board Will No Longer Offer
SAT Subject Tests or SAT with Essay


As students and colleges adapt to new realities and changes to the college admissions process, College Board is ensuring its programs adapt with them and is making some changes to reduce demands on students. College Board is no longer offering SAT Subject Tests in the U.S.. Because SAT Subject Tests are used internationally for a wider variety of purposes, College Board will provide two more administrations, in May and June of 2021, for international students.

  • Students currently registered for an upcoming Subject Test in the U.S. will automatically have their registration canceled and fees refunded.

  • Students who are currently registered for, or plan to register for, an upcoming Subject Test outside the U.S. can still test through the June 2021 administration. Students who no longer want to take Subject Tests can contact College Board’s Customer Service to cancel and receive a refund.

College Board will also discontinue the optional SAT Essay after the June 2021 administration.

  • Students who are currently registered, or plan to register, for an upcoming SAT with Essay will still be able to test through the June 2021 administration. Students who prefer to cancel the optional Essay portion of their SAT can do so in their online account, with no change fees, until the registration deadline.

  • After June 2021, the Essay will only be available in states where it’s required as part of SAT School Day administrations. Students scheduled to take the SAT on a school day should check with their school about whether the Essay will be included.

Writing remains essential to college readiness and the SAT will continue to measure writing and editing skills, but there are other ways for students to demonstrate their mastery of essay writing, and the SAT will continue to measure writing throughout the test. The tasks on the SAT Reading and Writing and Language sections are among the most effective and predictive parts of the SAT.

SAT FAQ:

What is the current 2021 SAT administration schedule?

You can find SAT test dates and deadlines here.

 

When will registration open for fall 2021 and spring 2022 SAT administrations?

Registration for fall 2021 and spring 2022 will open in June 2021.

Why is College Board discontinuing SAT Subject Tests?

To reduce demands on students. The expanded reach of AP and its widespread availability means the Subject Tests are no longer necessary for students to show what they know.

What should I do if I’m already registered for or was planning to take SAT Subject Tests?

Students in the U.S. who registered for the May and/or June 2021 Subject Tests will automatically have their registrations canceled and fees refunded. No further action is needed. If you were planning to submit Subject Test scores, check directly with the colleges you plan to apply to for alternative ways to strengthen your applications.

Students outside the U.S. can still take SAT Subject Tests in May and/or June 2021. Check with the colleges you plan to apply to for their SAT Subject Test policy so you can decide whether Subject Test scores will be valuable to you. If you no longer want to take Subject Tests, you can contact Customer Service to cancel your registration and get a refund or change your registration to take the SAT. The best way to contact Customer Service is to call +1-212-713-7789 (international). Customer Service hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you can’t call, email customer service at sat@info.collegeboard.organd be sure to include the following information: test month, test year, first name, last name, full address, date of birth, and name of school.

 

When will registration for international students who want to take Subject Tests in May and June be cut off?

International SAT and SAT Subject Tests Administration dates and deadlines can be found here.

Why do international students still get to take SAT Subject Tests through June, but U.S. students don’t?

Subject Tests are used internationally for a wider variety of purposes, such as advanced standing/placement at universities and local credential equivalences for entering colleges and/or as credentials for international students planning to study in some countries.

I’ve already taken SAT Subject Tests. Will colleges still accept those scores?

College Board has reached out to its member colleges, and they’ll decide whether and how to consider students’ Subject Test scores. Students should check colleges’ websites for the most up-to-date information on their application policies.

How long will score sending for SAT Subject Tests be an option?

Students can continue sending their Subject Test scores.

 

How can I show my skills in specific subject areas without the opportunity to take SAT Subject Tests?

College Board has continued to enrich and expand access to AP courses, which let students showcase their skills through challenging coursework. Many colleges already use AP course participation and exam scores as indicators of a student’s ability and interest in a particular subject area. And colleges also have access to information about student performance in key subject areas through their SAT scores, high school transcript, course selection, and other measures. Check directly with the colleges you plan to apply to for alternative ways to strengthen your applications.

 

Why is College Board discontinuing the optional SAT Essay?

College Board is adapting to respond to the changing needs of students and colleges. This change simply streamlines the process for students who have other, more relevant opportunities to show they can write an essay as part of the work they’re already doing on their path to college.

What should I do if I’m already registered for or was planning to take the optional SAT Essay?

Students can still take the optional SAT with Essay through the June 2021 administration. Check with the colleges you plan to apply to for their SAT Essay policy so you can decide whether taking the optional SAT Essay will be valuable to you. If you no longer want to take the optional Essay portion of your SAT, you can cancel in your online account, with no change fees, until the registration deadline. For information on how to add the Essay to your SAT registration, click here. visit collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/policies-requirements/changes.

 

Will colleges still consider Essay scores if I submit them?

Check with the colleges you’re interested in about their policies. If you take the SAT with Essay, colleges may consider your scores as part of their holistic review process. Students registered for the SAT with Essay can cancel the Essay portion if they choose to.

For more information on this development, please visit the official College Board websitehere.


Mock ACT/SAT Test Dates
with a Live Virtual Proctor 

 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:

  • ACT/SAT answer sheet

  • ACT/SAT test booklet

  • ACT/SAT essay prompt

  • Four pages of lined paper

  • Testing instructions


The ACT/SAT essay is optional. Students interested in taking the essay will continue with the test after the final multiple-choice section (ACT Science or SAT Math). Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.


Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.

Mock ACT test dates:

January 30, 2021

February 27, 2021

March 27, 2021

April 10, 2021

May 8, 2021


Mock SAT test dates:

February 13, 2021

March 13, 2021

April 24, 2021

May 22, 2021

Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.

Learn more about our test prep program.

Find out how an academic coach can help.

Interested in pod tutoring? Contact us to learn more.

Coronavirus and the College Search

High school seniors applying to college this fall face unique and, in some cases, challenging circumstances. But college consultant Jamie Gossels points out that there are also fundamental similarities to the “usual” process, along with some silver linings. Here Gossels gives the rundown of the college search during the coronavirus.

The Big Picture

What’s the same (as other years)? High school seniors are applying to college.

What’s Different? COVID-19

What to do?

Most important, students shouldn’t add stress by lamenting these unusual circumstances. They should focus on what they can control and remember that every applicant is facing similar restrictions with respect to spring semester grades, standardized testing, extracurricular activities, college visits, and more. College admissions will review every application holistically (considering all parts of the application) in the specific context of these limitations for each student. Admissions representatives also understand that students have faced emotional loss during this time and will review applications with grace, compassion, and humanity.

And now to specifics:

Standardized Testing

What’s the same? Not much! Some students have standardized test scores to report, but many do not.

What’s different? Many students have not had an opportunity to take an official SAT or ACT. Some students do have official scores from last fall or winter, but those scores might not represent their best abilities, as scores are likely to improve over time. But in response to the limited access to testing, just about every college is test optional (or test blind) this year.

What to do? If a student believes, based on practice tests, that their standardized test scores will positively impact their application, they should continue to try to take the test this fall, despite frustrations with last minute cancellations. However, students should not put their health at risk or travel unreasonably for this purpose. Take colleges at their word; when they say tests are optional, they mean it.

If students do have test scores, should they submit them? The guideline is that if the scores are above the national average for a given college, students should submit. These data are often available on the college’s website, and can also be found on the school’s common data set (search College X common data set).

The silver lining: Assuming students are able to take a standardized test, they have control over the role the scores play in their application. And if they haven’t taken one, they won’t be penalized.

Creating the College List

What’s the same? Students have to create a balanced list (with respect to admission likelihood) of colleges that are a good fit. Some colleges are looking for students to demonstrate interest/engagement. And some colleges encourage interviews.

What’s different? Most college campuses have been closed to in-person visits.

What to do? Use other resources to research colleges. Virtual college programming, while not the same as a live visit, can provide additional insights beyond tours and information sessions, such as student panels and academically oriented sessions. For colleges looking for demonstrated interest, these virtual visits “count” just as an in-person visit would. Students can also contact admissions representatives directly. Regional representatives are often identified on the college’s website; if not, questions can be directed to the general admissions office. Interviews are also now conducted virtually. For each college of interest, students should register online and/or follow via social media. Not only does this demonstrate interest, but the student is notified of events which could be of interest. Other resources for research include college websites and social media, college guidebooks and search websites, and personal connections. Check out the college LinkedIn page to learn more about student outcomes.

The silver lining: College visits, interviews, and admissions representatives are easily accessible for all.

Jamie Gossels is the owner and principal of JGossels College Consulting. Click 
here for more of her tips on navigating the college selection and application processes.

—————————————————————————-

Mock ACT/SAT Test Dates with a Live Virtual Proctor 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following: 

  • ACT/SAT answer sheet

  • ACT/SAT test booklet 

  • ACT/SAT essay prompt 

  • Four pages of lined paper 

  • Testing instructions     

The ACT/SAT essay is optional. Students interested in taking the essay will continue with the test after the final multiple-choice section (ACT Science or SAT Math). Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee. 

 

Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.

 

Mock ACT test dates:

October 24, 2020

November 21, 2020

December 5, 2020

January 30, 2021

February 27, 2021

March 27, 2021

April 10, 2021

May 8, 2021


Mock SAT test dates:

November 7, 2020

December 19, 2020

January 16, 2021

February 13, 2021

March 13, 2021

April 24, 2021

May 22, 2021


Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more. 

ACT/SAT: Should I retest?

ACT/SAT: Should I retest?

Did you know improving by just a single test point can be worth thousands of dollars in financial aid for your college education? The SAT'/ACT® test is important to your future—and can open up new opportunities for college and career.

If, after getting your scores, you’re thinking of retaking the SAT/ACT, consider these important questions and factors.

Increase Your Attention Span

Increase Your Attention Span

You can improve your ability to focus by changing your brain or changing your behavior. And it’s best if you do both. We talk about changing your brain. And the best way to change your behavior is to make sure that anything that might distract you is far away. Simply put, make your environment as boring as possible when trying to focus. Research shows even having a phone in the room can be distracting.

ACT VS. SAT; Which one is better for me?

ACT VS. SAT; Which one is better for me?

The ACT and SAT are two competing examinations for college entrance.  Most schools will accept either an ACT or an SAT score BUT check with the school you are considering to see what they prefer.  We suggest that you take both the ACT and SAT and see which one you score higher on, then concentrate on that test.

7 Ways to Prepare for the SAT and ACT

7 Ways to Prepare for the SAT and ACT

You know your scores will impact your college acceptance, and you figure you should probably get started with your preparations. But questions abound. What’s the best way to practice? Does tutoring make sense? How can you bulk up your vocabulary?

Read on for seven helpful tips and strategies that every test-taker should know to prepare for the SAT and ACT exams.

Tips for Creating a Winter Break ACT / SAT Prep Schedule

Tips for Creating a Winter Break ACT / SAT Prep Schedule

Winter break can seem like an illusion. You might think that the world stops when school does, but every passing day brings your ACT or SAT exam closer. Instead of panicking and ruining your vacation with worry, set aside an hour to create a plan that will keep your test prep progressing.

How to Help Your Child Prep for the SAT or ACT

How to Help Your Child Prep for the SAT or ACT

Parents often go into a panic thinking about how to help their children through the college application process.

SAT and ACT prep can be particularly flummoxing for parents, many of whom may not be familiar with the material tested on those exams. (It’s challenging! And it’s probably different from what you remember.)

Last Chance to Take the SAT in 2019

Last Chance to Take the SAT in 2019

The extended SAT registration deadline is today! If you are trying to gain college admission for 2020, here is your last chance to take the test. Click through to register and find testing tips and checklists!

Top 10 Ways to Prepare for the SAT

Top 10 Ways to Prepare for the SAT

Take these 10 tips into consideration when studying for the SAT to improve your score and feel confident in your test-taking skills when the day comes.