Lee Bierer - Nationally Syndicated Columnist and Independent College Counselor.

Developing your testing strategy

Last week I wrote about the practice tests (PSAT and The PLAN) many students take before taking the SAT or the ACT and how to interpret the scores. If you are one of the lucky ones whose school district administers either or both the SAT or the ACT, you need to compare the scores. Follow the     Continue Reading...

Lee Bierer - Nationally Syndicated Columnist and Independent College Counselor.

What those pre-tests mean

Most school systems around the country have their students participate in a “pre-test,” before sitting for either the SAT or ACT, which most colleges require. The ACT PLAN is offered to high school sophomores and the PSAT is administered in October to juniors. What do the scores mean? Many     Continue Reading...

Lee Bierer - Nationally Syndicated Columnist and Independent College Counselor.

A little test prep can make a big difference

Know the format and quirks of the SAT and the ACT. Then practice. Standardized tests are coachable. Preparation pays off, frequently with big-time results. For years, the creators of the SAT and ACT have insisted that dramatic score increases are unlikely to be realized through coaching. The tests     Continue Reading...

Lee Bierer - Nationally Syndicated Columnist and Independent College Counselor.

Deciphering the ABCs of college tests

Testing 1, 2, 3. You have officially entered the jungle of standardized testing shorthand. You are probably familiar with the SAT, the ACT and even the PSAT, but you’re probably beginning to feel some anxiety when you hear NMSQT, CLEP and the PLAN. It’s time to tame, untangle and de-stress     Continue Reading...

Lee Bierer - Nationally Syndicated Columnist and Independent College Counselor.

Is ACT or SAT best for you? – Part II

Depending on type of student, one test may be better than other. Most colleges now accept the SAT or ACT tests. But the tests differ in content and style: the ACT is seen as content-based, the SAT more critical thinking and problem solving. Last week’s column focused on the basic differences     Continue Reading...