Frequently Asked Questions
Throughout the years, we have advised our families how best to navigate the college readiness path. In the process, we've compiled a list of common topics and inquiries derived from our communication and experience with students, parents and counselors. If your question isn’t addressed below, get in touch with us to set up a complimentary consultation so we can customize a program that is best suited for your rising student.
When is a good time for my student to start studying for the SAT/ACT?
Every situation is different, but most students going the academic route in college should begin during sophomore year or the summer before junior year (when there are less demands from school). Waiting until the start of junior year can be overwhelming as that is typically the most challenging academic time for most students. If your student plans to play a sport in college, we recommend starting 6-12 months earlier to meet the demand/criteria of college coaches/admissions for the collegiate athletic track.
How do I know which test to take between the ACT and the SAT?
During your complimentary consult, we evaluate your student's official scores (e.g.,PSAT, FSA) and academic profile to determine which test is best based on performance and subject interests. Additionally, we may suggest a proctored mock exam to get a realistic baseline before beginning our test prep program. Typically, students who are math-minded and/or interested in complementary disciplines, such as engineering, economics or finance, may be a better candidate for the SAT since it is comprised of 50% math (versus 25% for ACT) and allows those students to demonstrate their strengths to schools.
What is the new computer-based, adaptive PSAT/SAT?
The College Board introduced a new version of the PSAT/SAT this year, replacing the traditional paper-based exam. The primary changes include a computer-based shorter exam (approx. two hours), with more time per question, calculator use for all math, combined verbal sections blending Writing/Grammar and Reading Comprehension with shorter passages, and a difficulty level that adapts based on a student's performance on the first verbal and math section. Scoring will remain on a 1600-point scale (800 for verbal and math). The majority of colleges will continue to superscore the SAT.
How many times should my student take the ACT or SAT?
We typically recommend students sit for two to three exams, ideally with a final score (superscore) to send to choice colleges by early decision/early action deadlines (Nov 1 of senior year).
Should I sign my student up for the essay/writing portion of the SAT/ACT?
The majority of colleges do not require the essay when submitting scores mainly because there is a personal statement and supplemental essays required as part of individual college applications. Be sure to double check ACT/SAT requirements of each college on your list.
What is SAT/ACT superscoring?
Superscoring is a common practice when colleges consider the highest section score from any of your SAT or ACT attempts. Your SAT superscore would combine the highest verbal and math scores and the ACT superscore would combine and average the highest English, Math, Reading and Science section scores. This popular practice allows a student to essentially "lock in" a high score and focus more on the areas that require a greater emphasis. All U.S. Colleges superscore the SAT and an increasing number accept the superscore for the ACT.
What is the Classic Learning Test (CLT) available to Florida college-bound students?
The CLT is a timed standardized test (approx. two hours), providing an alternative option to the traditional SAT/ACT exams. Both paper-based and online formats are available at select centers or at-home with virtual proctor. The subject matter tested is similar to that of the SAT/ACT (reading comprehension, grammar/writing, math) and the Florida public universities will superscore between the three sections for college admissions. Unlike the SAT/ACT, the CLT does not permit a calculator in the math portion. The "classic" in the CLT refers to classic literature and historical text presented for reading selections. Register for the CLT on cltexam.com for select testing dates.
Choice schools vs. All-Score Schools: What's the difference?
Most national and liberal arts universities allow students to choose which composite scores to send during application season. Yet, there are still select colleges that require all scores be sent for a comprehensive evaluation.
Be sure to check the individual school requirements prior to setting a plan in motion for your SAT/ACT sittings as All-score schools will see every score from each official sitting.
How do I get SAT or ACT testing accommodations for my student with diagnosed or undiagnosed learning disabilities or medical issues?
If your student already has an IEP or 504 Plan, chances are they have up-to-date documentation in school and have been leveraging specific accommodations that assist in more streamlined learning based on his/her diagnosis. Collegeboard (SAT) and ACT Inc. (ACT) have accommodations protocols and processes that could take up to 30 days once documentation has been submitted by the school guidance counselor or ESE coordinator. It is always an easier process if your student can show a history of accommodations in school prior to registering for his or her first standardized test. Although it is ideal to test for diagnoses as early as possible, it's never a bad idea to request a psychoeducational evaluation from your student's school psychologist or ESE coordinator. We also work with and refer trusted private psychologists that provide preliminary consultations.
Is test-optional really optional?
The pandemic kickstarted the need for colleges to be flexible with juniors and seniors who were impacted by limited testing options or disrupted classroom learning. Thus, the majority of colleges have moved to test-optional (outside of Florida). However, test optional does not mean don't try. If you have the means, academic aptitude and commitment to study and sit for the ACT, SAT or alternative exam before college application deadlines, do it! Test scores will always be a quantitative measure of success and easier for admissions panels to evaluate college readiness success along with the other important components of a student's application. In fact, there has been growing evidence that suggests omitting test scores may be a predictor of underperformance in advanced college courses at more selective universities. Be strategic in the competitive college chase. While omitting test scores may open the door to more selective colleges in certain instances, it also requires students to optimize their college resume for a better chance of acceptance. GPA, courseload rigor and overall narrative must be impressive and stand out to be considered as a serious candidate.
Should my student take AP/AICE or accelerated courses?
Yes. These courses are designed to prepare students for college and demonstrate their readiness and intellectual curiosity. Success in AP or AICE courses is one key performance indicator that colleges use to gauge a student's academic potential. In other words, this is a way for your student to showcase that he or she can successfully handle college-level courses. That being said, not all AP courses are right for a student. We recommend students choose an AP/AICE/IB courseload that is consistent with their interests and aligned with their capabilities. Moreover, it is important to show growth in course curriculum, progressing from 9th grade year. Each college receives a high school profile, which includes all courses offered to students, therefore, students should take advantage of advanced curriculum to challenge themselves. Additionally, AP/AICE/IB and honors courses boost a student's GPA as these classes are weighted more than a regular class (quality points/extra credits). Students will also have the chance to take an end-of-year exam to demonstrate their mastery of the subject. For example, scoring a 3 or higher (out of 5) on an AP exam may allow a student to gain college credit at participating institutions as well as offer an academic distinction on their resume.
What is the difference between Early Decision, Early Action and Regular Decision in the college application process?
Once your student has refined a college of interest list, he or she is ready to decide which colleges are top choice. Applying Early Decision to a college is a binding verbal commitment and can only be selected once among private institutions. Public colleges do not have this option. These early decision deadlines are typically around November 1st (college applications open in August). If a student gets deferred, they are automatically placed in the regular applicant pool and the agreement is void, which can open up a new Early Decision opportunity at a student's choice college (if offered). Some colleges offer ED2 (Early Decision 2), for these situations with deadlines around January 1st.
Early Action is the next best application plan and the most popular and beneficial to students applying to selective colleges. Early Action deadlines are typically on or around November 1st. Unlike ED/ED2, Early Action is a non-binding early application round. It not only helps organize and prioritize choice colleges, but it also shows colleges how interested a student is in attending their institution. Many colleges accept the majority of their incoming freshman class from their Early Decision or Early Action applicant pools. Another benefit to Early Action is that students will be able to receive admission decisions earlier and plan for the next batch of schools during the Regular Decision window. {Note: Early Action Restricted/Restrictive is an alternative admission plan and only offered at select colleges. A student is only allowed to apply Early Action to just one private school, even though it is non-binding and a student can decline acceptance (unlike Early Decision)}.
Regular Decision deadlines typically begin in January and run through mid February. Regular Decision is the general application round and students applying during this window will be considered among a larger applicant pool. Colleges will have less spots to admit students due to the offers they extended during the early round applications. Students should find out their admission decision no later than April.