How to Visit a College
5 Ways to Tour Colleges at Home
If you're unable to tour colleges physically, there are different ways to get to know a college through its online resources and social media presences. Many schools are offering virtual tours, chats with admissions officers and current students, and other online options to help you get familiar with their school.
10 Ways to Learn About Colleges Online
College Prep Resolutions for High School Juniors
College Prep Resolutions for High School Juniors
Don't waste time. Get started now on applying to college with these tips.
With 2021 officially behind, the current class of high school juniors – the graduating class of 2023 – will be the next cohort to apply to college. While juniors may feel that they still have plenty of time to begin with their college hunting and college applications, it would be a serious mistake to let the approaching months go to waste.
Below are some actionable New Year’s resolutions that can orient high school juniors as they approach college prep in coming months.
Spring Term of Junior Year
I will earn my highest possible score on the ACT or SAT. While there will still be time to retake the ACT or SAT over the summer or in the fall, do your best to check this item off your to-do list now. That way, you can enjoy your summer more, make time for visiting potentially far-away colleges and have one less commitment on your mind during the infamously busy start of senior year.
I will visit at least half of my prospective colleges. Given that many students to apply to more than 10 colleges, campus visits should start as early as possible to allow yourself time to see each one. If you have a heavy course schedule, you can take advantage of the rest of winter break and spring break to tour colleges, ideally visiting more than one school on each trip.
I will arrange a work or internship opportunity that aligns with my goals. Because competition for summer jobs and internships can be stiff, you should start seeking out such opportunities months in advance. If you are not sure how to go about the process, talk to your school counselor or perform a search, for example on Internships.com.
Summer Term After Junior Year
I will finish touring my prospective colleges. Summer, which involves little to no schoolwork and consistently pleasant weather, is the perfect time to finish visiting colleges. You can make college visits especially memorable by going with classmates or friends who are interested in the same schools as you.
I will write several college essays: Summer is also the ideal season for completing creative tasks, since sunshine and social gatherings can lead to a good mood. Start writing a few college essays, even if they are unpolished or awkward.
At first, aim to craft more generic essays, ones that can apply or be adapted to different prompts. If you're unsure what that means, look at the Common App essay prompts for 2022 and supplemental prompts for your top-pick schools. You should notice similarities among the questions.
Finally, space out your writing sessions so that you can revisit your work with fresh eyes and have others contribute ideas, too.
Looking Ahead: Fall Term of Senior Year
I will remain as committed to my schoolwork as always. Not taking school seriously enough during senior year can result in disaster, as a significant decline in GPA can be a reason for colleges to revoke admissions acceptance. Avoid overconfidence and be consistent with your studies until the end.
If you are burned out from junior year and want to have a relatively lighter senior year, do not take on more responsibility than you are willing to commit to. Instead, slightly reduce the number of advanced classes you take or find a space in your schedule for a study hall. Remain studious and keep your college applications competitive through coursework and extracurricular activities.
I will tie up college application loose ends ASAP. The start of senior year is the season for completing unfinished business, which could mean giving the ACT or SAT one last try, finalizing your college essays or selecting those who will write your letters of recommendation.
Most college application deadlines loom around late fall and early winter, dates that tend to coincide with final exams and the holidays, so it would behoove you to tie up those loose ends sooner rather than later. Otherwise, what is usually the jolliest time of year could quickly become very stressful.
It’s never too soon to start planning for your future. Act now as a junior to ensure a smooth college application process. Making these resolutions is the perfect way to do that.
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:
March 5, 2022
April 16, 2022
May 21, 2022
Mock SAT test dates:
March 19, 2022
April 9, 2022
May 14, 2022
How to Visit Colleges in 2021
Lots of things have changed since the pandemic struck, and that includes the way your student searches for the right college. But one of the best ways for a student to decide if a college is right for them — the college visit tour — is still worth taking, even if it might look a little different now.
12 Ways to Prepare for Your Freshman Year of College
Tips for a successful freshman year
Gear up for online classes.
Read as much as possible.
Research possible college majors.
Polish social, people and soft skills.
Embrace time-management tools.
Weigh getting a job freshman year.
Keep in touch with the financial aid office.
Know how to stay safe on campus.
Contact professors before classes start.
Make the most of orientation activities.
Research ways to get involved.
Know where to go for academic help.
Be ready before classes start.
Moving from high school to college can be a big transition for students, and this year's incoming freshmen are facing new challenges as the coronavirus pandemic pushes many colleges to fully online or hybrid classes. For those stressing over this new life chapter and today's uncertainties, there are ways to prepare before starting those first classes. From researching academic support to developing strong interpersonal skills, the following tips can help incoming freshmen get organized and build a foundation for college success.
Gear up for online classes.
This year's freshman experience will likely be a bit different from previous years. Students can prepare for more online classes and new social distancing measures by checking their college's website frequently for updates. Before classes start, students should acquire all the necessary technology they might need to complete online courses successfully and research school resources before problems arise.
Read as much as possible.
College coursework consists of substantially more reading than is required in high school. Students should start getting used to the increased workload by reading books during high school and the summer before college. What you read is not as important as how much, but it helps to select recommendations for your intended college major or areas of academic and personal interest.
Research possible college majors.
At most colleges, students don't need to know with certainty which college major they will pursue the first day of freshman year. But students should start thinking about what they might like to study in preparation to select courses. Those interested in prelaw and premed, for example, should learn more about those tracks if their college offers them. "Take the time to explore what type of academic advising programs are at your university," Jess Casimir, a former admissions ambassador at the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill, wrote in an email. "It's always a good idea to make a connection with someone who can help you figure out the best plan of attack for completing all of your major/minor requirements."
Polish social, people and soft skills.
College pushes students to develop strong communication skills. From group projects to communicating with professors, an ability to convey ideas clearly and work collaboratively will serve students well. That includes dealing with social issues; many students will find themselves working closely with people from different backgrounds and life experiences, so they should consider taking advantage of diversity and inclusion classes or books. In addition, leadership and problem-solving skills will be important qualities when it comes time to apply for jobs and internships during school and after graduation. With that in mind, students should consider enrolling in courses that teach soft skills once school begins.
Embrace time-management tools.
Balancing the academic and social demands of college can be a challenge for even the most diligent student. But there are plenty of digital tools designed for students, and a little organization can go a long way in making sure time is used wisely. Smartphone apps and tools can help students limit time on entertainment and social media, and can help keep study schedules on track.
Weigh getting a job freshman year.
College is expensive, and costs go beyond tuition and fees. Day-to-day expenses make up a significant chunk of a student's college budget. A part-time job can alleviate budget strains, but also take time away from classes. Some students may also be eligible to participate in the federal work-study program, and college financial aid offices can help answer any questions before the semester begins. Before making the decision to work as college freshmen, students should talk to their families about financial expectations.
Keep in touch with the financial aid office.
If a family's financial situation changes in the months before freshman year, there are options to get more help to pay for college. Financial aid appeals requesting more aid may become more common as American families experience unemployment and reduced work hours resulting from the economic impacts of the coronavirus outbreak. Stay in touch with the financial aid office and ask for more financial support if it's needed.
Know how to stay safe on campus.
Some students will find themselves taking courses both online and in person this fall as the U.S. continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, and it's important for students to feel safe navigating campus. Students should practice common sense by being aware of their surroundings and learning about how their college handles safety issues, including sexual assault. Both parents and students should take time before the semester begins to become familiar with the campus' safety resources and procedures.
Contact professors before classes start.
Cultivating a strong relationship with professors can go a long way in helping students succeed. Once students have selected their classes, they should consider emailing a handful of instructors or seeing if they can talk via videoconferencing or a phone call this summer. Make sure to be respectful and mature in all communications with professors and other academic staff.
Make the most of orientation activities.
Orientation typically begins in the weeks and sometimes months before classes start, but this year, it may be postponed or held entirely online. Still, it's a great way for students to get acclimated and ask plenty of questions. Realize that everyone is trying to make friends and adjust to a new environment, so don't be shy. After orientation, many schools offer unique first-year experiences that help students further connect with their classmates and college community.
Research ways to get involved.
College provides a number of opportunities for students to explore existing interests or embark on new hobbies. Whether it's joining a musical ensemble or getting involved in social issues, many schools make it easy to get involved. Having a plan of action before arriving will help students select meaningful activities and ensure they don't miss any important sign-up dates or meetings once school starts.
Know where to go for academic help.
Incoming freshmen should be aware that many colleges have offices dedicated to helping students brainstorm and write essays. Students having difficulty in a class or who just want to speak with a professor one-on-one should take advantage of open office hours. School libraries can also offer knowledgeable staff and study resources to help students. These options can be especially valuable for international students who might be struggling with English language skills.
Find more resources for college success.
The college journey doesn't end after freshman year, and there is a wealth of information on everything from finding scholarships to how to write a resume for opportunities like internships.
What We Do
Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.
5 College Prep Tips to Take With You to College
As college bound high school seniors anxiously await their admission decisions, the thought of actually preparing for life on campus tends to take a backseat until they learn of their acceptance. Luckily for many of these students, they already have the tools they need to succeed in college – they just need to know how to harness them.
The college prep process may be over for college bound high school seniors, but there are a number of college prep tips that can carry students into their freshman year and throughout their college experience. The goal of college guidance is not just to help students gain admission to their top-choice colleges, but also prepare them for life after graduation. College counselors want students to feel prepared for their college experience, and the guidance offered during the admissions process can translate into skills that can help students make the most of their next four years in school.
Here are five college prep tips that students should use in college, too.
Plan Ahead
Planning ahead was important in preparing for admission to your top-choice colleges, and it’ll be even more important once you’re in college. Students are expected to be independent. There won’t be anyone to make sure you attend class, do your homework, or study for tests. It’s important to stay organized and make a plan for projects, studying, and even extracurricular activities. It’s also important to plan ahead for things like studying abroad, applying for research opportunities, finding internships, and other milestones that are important to your college experience. Stay on top of your work, go to class, and stay motivated.
Fit Is Key
Hopefully, if you started early and did your research, you’re attending a college that is a good fit for your social, academic, and financial needs. Fit is key when choosing where to go to college, and it is also important once you get on campus. Seek out activities, organizations, and other student groups that are a good fit for what you hope to accomplish on campus. Focus on fit when seeking out elective classes, partners for group projects, or even new roommates. Fit will continue to be an important metric throughout college, and even when you start looking for your first post-graduate job.
Your Grades Matter – Perform Well in Class
It was drilled into your head all throughout high school – make good grades – and now that you’re in college, that advice is more important than ever. For many students, the adjustment to college life can be hard, and their first semester grades will show it. It’s important to remember why you’re in college in the first place: To get a good education. Maintaining a certain GPA can be essential to staying in a certain program, keeping your current scholarships, or even qualifying for other financial aid opportunities. Your grades will also be important should you decide to apply to a graduate program.
Your Interests Matter – Find a Few Activities You Love and Make an Impact
You may have honed in on a specialty in high school, or have a few areas of interest you’d like to learn more about, so it’s time to really gain experience now that you’re in college. Get involved! Whether it’s with clubs, groups, organizations, or other activities that align with your major, or exploring a new activity that you’ve never had the chance to experience before, take advantage of extracurricular opportunities on campus and make an impact. Not only will this help guide you to better understand your current interests and explore new ones, it will also give you experience that can be highlighted in internship, job, and graduate admission applications.
Build Relationships With Professors, Mentors, and Classmates
In college you will have the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet new people and learn from some of the brightest thought leaders in your area of study. One of Vint Hill’s top college prep tips is to be present in class. Ask questions. Participate in class discussions. Get to know your teachers and ask for help if you need it. This is even more important in college. If professors offer office hours, go and meet with them. Be engaged in class projects, discussions, and lectures. Build relationships with your classmates and participate in healthy debate. Learn from mentors in your program, research project, internship, or other learning experiences. These relationships will enrich your experience and will likely last long after you’ve graduated, and can be beneficial when looking for a job or seeking admission to a graduate program.
Preparing for college extends far beyond just applying and getting in. At Vint Hill Educational Services (VHES) we work with students to not only gain admission to their top-choice schools, but also to prepare them for the next four years in college and beyond. Our tutors get to know their students and work with them to achieve not only their admissions goals, but also their academic and personal goals. For more information on how VHES works with students and our college prep services, contact us today.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).
Click here to view our subject tutoring packages or here to check out our academic coaching service.
What We Do
Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.
You Got Accepted - What's Next?
You Got Accepted - What's Next?
Things You Should Consider Now
Congratulations on getting accepted into college!
There are many things you should consider when making your final decision:
Wait for more options
Do your research
Talk it out
Reflect
Access your student portal
Keep track of deadlines
Learn more about what to do after being accepted into college and so much more with the FREE eBook, Planning for Your Future: Six Easy Ways to Start Preparing for What's Next
Things to Do After Receiving a College Acceptance Letter
Wait for more options. If you applied to more than one school, wait until you hear back from the others. Weigh the pros and cons of all your options before committing to the first school that accepts you.
Do your research… again. If you applied to a college, you’ve likely done some kind of research, and maybe even visited campus. Now that attending a particular college went from a possibility to a reality, you will likely view things a little bit differently. Before making a final decision, consider visiting (or revisiting) the campus as a first-year student. If a campus visit isn’t in the cards, use online resources to go on a virtual campus visit.
Talk it out. Talk to your family and friends about your options. Consider the costs associated with attending each school.
Reflect. Read your notes from your campus visit. If you haven’t already, make a college list to compare potential schools. Know what’s most important to you about each option (cost, distance from home, majors offered, student population, etc.). Sit quietly and picture your first day of college. What campus are you visualizing?
Access your student portal. Many schools have a student portal that hosts all the pertinent information and deadlines you need to know to move forward in the admissions process. Activation details are usually found in your acceptance materials.
Keep track of deadlines. Read through your acceptance letter completely and take note of important dates. Dates to keep in mind may include:
Deadline to take placement tests
Deadline to sign up for orientation
Deadline to apply for housing
Deadline to submit final high school transcript
Deadline to file your financial aid documents
Deadline to accept admission (and pay the acceptance fee, if applicable)
CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).
Click here to view our subject tutoring packages or here to check out our academic coaching service.
Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.
What to do if you are waitlisted
Getting in to college just got harder.
Here’s what to do if you are waitlisted.
KEY POINTS
In an application cycle unlike any other, more students were rejected or waitlisted at their top-choice schools.
Now students are left with fewer options and only a short time to figure out their next move ahead of National College Decision Day on May 1.
Is big money and privilege blocking your kid from getting into an elite college?
If you were waitlisted at your dream college, join the club.
The hardest application cycle to date left more students in limbo than ever before.
In addition to the number of gap-year students who already accounted for as much as a quarter of next year’s freshman class, schools were “test optional” for the first time ever, which meant students didn’t need certain SAT or ACT scores—even though, ultimately, submitting an SAT or ACT score would help their application—in order to apply. That helped drive the surge in applications for fewer spots.
Heightened uncertainty due to Covid also encouraged students to cast a wider net, resulting in a record number of applications at many top colleges and historically low acceptance rates as a result.
“It’s almost a perfect storm,” said Hafeez Lakhani, president of New York-based Lakhani Coaching.
Lower acceptance rates, longer waitlists
Now students are left with fewer options and only a few weeks to figure out their next move ahead of National College Decision Day on May 1, the deadline for high school seniors to choose which college they will attend. (Last year, the coronavirus crisis pushed many schools to extend the deadline until June 1.)
At that point, they must cough up a non-refundable deposit to secure their seat at the school of their choice. And yet, many campuses remain closed to tours and visits, so students must also make these decisions sight-unseen.
And perhaps the biggest problem is that many students have been waitlisted at their top picks.
Waitlisted applicants have neither been outright rejected by a college nor have they been extended a formal offer of admission.
Instead, they may be considered for a seat between now and September, depending on whether there’s sufficient space for them in the incoming class, among other factors.
“For colleges, it’s a no-loss proposition,” said Eric Greenberg, president of Greenberg Educational Group, a New York-based consulting firm. “The more uncertainty about yield, the bigger the waitlist will be.”
Waitlists are an easy way to protect yield — or the percent of students who choose to enroll after being admitted — which is an important statistic for schools.
Nationwide, the average yield for freshmen at four-year colleges and universities fell to about 30% in the year before the pandemic, from closer to 40% a decade ago, according to the National Association for College Admission Counseling.
“It’s so more challenging for all of us to predict our class sizes,” said Leslie Davidson, vice president for enrollment management at Beloit College in Wisconsin.
Although Beloit received 3,300 applications for an incoming class with a target size of 260 students — and already received a record number of deposits as of the latest tally — the college could still be affected by waitlist activity at other places, Davidson said. When a student accepts an offer off the waitlist at another institution, they give up their spot elsewhere (and so on and so on).
Pandemic hammers higher education
Colleges with lower acceptance rates place more students on the waitlist and ultimately accept fewer of them.
Pre-pandemic, colleges granted spots to about 20% of waitlisted applicants, according to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, but that number falls to just 7% at the most selective colleges.
With far fewer students choosing to defer and many of last year’s gap year students returning, the percentage will likely be even lower this year, Lakhani said, “I expect that waitlists will not be heavily utilized.”
There are, however, ways to improve your odds.
How to get off the waitlist and into class
The first thing seniors who were waitlisted should do is write a letter of continued interest to the college to let them know why they want to attend, experts say.
“Pick one school that you would definitely go to and make a very, very clear statement: If given the spot, I would absolutely take it,” Lakhani advised.
Then, provide an update that demonstrates what you could bring to the table. For example, if you took classes or completed a research project that helped solidify why that school is now an even better fit.
Schools are waiting to hear what it is about the given student today that might be different from the same student a year ago.
Eric Greenberg
PRESIDENT OF GREENBERG EDUCATIONAL GROUP
Think: “How your story has evolved since you applied,” Lakhani said.
Finally, submit one more piece of information to help illustrate this new angle, such as an additional letter of recommendation or non-academic testimonial to your character story, Lakhani said.
Make a back-up plan for your back-up plan
In the meantime, “plans need to go ahead as if there’s no waitlist,” Greenberg said.
Settle on a school among the list of acceptances, based on which is the best fit in terms of cost, academics, campus life and other factors.
“That’s where it becomes imperative to see schools,” he added. “There seems to be a correlation between how well a person likes a school and how many times they’ve visited.”
Also consider the amount of aid available. Some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, or from programs with limited funds. Students who were admitted in the first round tend to have first dibs on grants and other forms of aid.
“As time goes on, it’s typically harder to get financial aid if they get off a waitlist,” said Greenberg. “There are less funds available at that point.”
Covid has made paying for college harder, so affordability may be the most important consideration, after all.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).
Click here to view our subject tutoring packages or here to check out our academic coaching service.
Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.
Impact of CV-19 - Admissions and Testing
Impact of COVID-19 on College Admission and Testing
Before COVID-19, most colleges and universities had elaborate admissions guidelines that were designed to present holistic pictures of their applicants. Some of the criteria they used to form these snapshots included a student's GPA, test scores, their school's academic rigor, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, volunteer and work experience, as well as their essay.
But, the pandemic has changed all of that. For instance, some high schools are no longer calculating grades and some extracurricular activities are canceled. Plus over the summer, students were unable to get internships, participate in summer programs, prep for or take standardized tests, volunteer, and sometimes even work. Consequently, a number of students feel like their applications are not as strong as they could be.
Consequences of COVID-19
In fact, according to a survey by Art & Science Group in collaboration with the College Board, nearly 45% of rising seniors said that COVID-19 has impacted their qualifications or the strength of their applications.1
For instance, 30% of white and Asian students, said they were unable to participate in extracurricular activities, while nearly 25% of Black and Hispanic students were unable to participate in summer educational programs.
Additionally, 21% of Black students and 13% of white students said their grades had been "compromised" by the pandemic. Meanwhile, 23% of students from the lowest-income group in the survey said they hadn't been able to work to save money for college.
What's more, widespread cancellations this past spring and summer have prevented many students from prepping for or taking the ACT and SAT exams. In fact, at the time of the survey, two-thirds of the respondents had not yet taken the SAT and nearly three-quarters had not yet taken the ACT.
And, as many as 51% of underrepresented minority students, 51% of low income students, and 51% of first generation college students were less likely than others to have taken the exams. For this reason, the class of 2021 is likely to submit vastly different college applications than those who graduated in 2019 and 2020.
What to Expect
Colleges and universities have had to adapt to meet this ever-changing landscape of student applicants. Some have made their application requirements test-optional, created virtual campus tours, and are actively engaged in leveling the playing field as much as they can to accommodate the challenges students are experiencing—especially because some areas of the country have been hit harder by the coronavirus than others.
Here is a closer look at what your student can expect when applying to college this fall and winter.
Test-Optional Schools
Some colleges are waiting to see how the pandemic impacts high schools this year before making a final decision about whether or not to implement a test-optional policy.
That said, there are a significant number of colleges and universities that have made the decision to become test-optional already. According to the National Center for Open and Fair Testing (FairTest), more than 1,600 accredited colleges and universities have made tests optional for 2021 admissions.2
Consequently, before you shell out money for your child to take the ACT or the SAT, visit the the FairTest website to determine if the schools your child is applying to are test-optional this year. Also, keep in mind just because a school is test-optional, this does not mean they are test-blind.
In other words, if your child does well on standardized tests, be sure that they include their test scores with their application. Doing so will strengthen their application and make them a stronger candidate.
If, however, your student struggles with standardized testing or has test anxiety, then you may want to consider skipping the tests and highlight their other qualifications.
If your student is considering not submitting standardized test scores, they need to make sure the rest of their application is pretty solid. While not submitting scores is a nice option for students who don't do well with standardized tests, it also means that the rest of their application will be more heavily weighted.
So, if you and your student think their application would be improved by including standardized test scores—and your student is able to take a test before the application deadline—then by all means, take the test and submit the scores.
Canceled or Postponed Tests
When it comes to taking standardized tests, some students will find it easier to schedule and take tests than others. Both the ACT and the SAT have scheduled exam dates, but are leaving it up to each test site to determine whether or not they are going to offer the test. Both organizations are suggesting that students monitor their testing locations to be sure the tests are still being offered as planned.
If you are planning to take the SAT or an SAT subject test, you can visit the College Board's website to determine if your testing location has cancelled a test. The site also indicates whether or not a make-up test will be offered.
As for the ACT, they do not have a list of cancellations. But you can research your test center to be sure the test is being offered before scheduling your test.
Both organizations also encourage students who plan to take the tests to register as soon as possible for the exams they want to take. With limited test dates and locations—plus a backlog of students who were unable to take their exams in the spring or summer—the availability is limited. They also both encourage students to wear face masks when taking their exams.
Virtual Campus Tours
In the past, students showed interest in a college or university by visiting the campus. But, with many campuses closed to students this fall, admissions officials have started offering virtual campus tours for prospective students. Many are also reaching students through virtual question and answer sessions, personalized emails, and social media.
Here are some ways your child can make the most of this situation:
Ask them to develop a list of the schools they're interested in.
Encourage your child to reach out to their admissions counselor at their top schools and begin developing a relationship—even if it is only through email and virtual calls.
Reach out to a professor or two within their desired major to introduce themselves and ask about the courses offered.
Follow their top picks on social media to gather information and show interest in the school—especially if your student likes or re-shares the information they post. (Just be sure your teen cleans up their social media account before following their top colleges.)
A Word From Verywell
While COVID-19 has completely changed the college admissions process this year, there are some unintended positives to all these changes. First, the pandemic has leveled the playing field when it comes to making college visits and doing lots of extras to enhance the college application that low income students cannot always afford. No one is doing these things so it's forcing students to get creative in order to make their application stand out.
Second, because many campuses are closed, it's much easier for students to get in touch with admissions professionals because they aren't traveling much. As a result, be sure your student reaches out to them and builds a relationship. Plus, they are likely to be very empathetic to the things students are experiencing because their lives have been upended by COVID-19 as well.
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, ISEE, HSPT, 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.
College Tuition Freeze
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.
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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:
Mock SAT test dates:
Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.
6 Tips for College Visits
College visits are extremely important. The summer is a great time to schedule college visits. Finding the right fit can't be found by browsing school websites. You can't get the "feel" of a school without visiting the campus. You'll be spending a few years of your life there and thousands of dollars as well. Here are 6 tips to ensure your college visit is successful:
1. Dine in the food hall - Is the food good? Are there healthy choices? Most admissions representatives will give prospective students tickets for free meals in the dining halls.
2. Read campus bulletin boards - Please spend a few minutes reading the bulletin boards. These boards provide an easy way to see what the campus events are.
3. Check things out on your own - The tour guide will show you the school's top highlights. Do yourself a favor and walk around for a bit. Try to get the complete picture of campus life and how it all comes together.
4. Schedule a meeting with a professor - You can see if the department's interests match your own. Be sure to ask about graduation requirements, research and internship opportunities, and average class size.
5. Spend the night - Many schools offer overnights, and nothing will give you a better sense of dorm life than spending the night. Your host can share all sorts of information. You'll also get a chance to ask questions to other students.
6. Chat with current students - Look for other students on campus and try to ask a few questions. These random conversations can provide insight about campus life that isn't included on the official tour.
Make sure you're prepared for college by taking a college readiness class!