College Admissions Strategies » Testing

Developing your testing strategy

Lee Bierer — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 13:26:07 +0000

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...

What those pre-tests mean

Lee Bierer — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 13:28:39 +0000

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...

A little test prep can make a big difference

Lee Bierer — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 01:30:05 +0000

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...

Deciphering the ABCs of college tests

Lee Bierer — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 12:54:15 +0000

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...

Is ACT or SAT best for you? – Part II

Lee Bierer — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 14:03:25 +0000

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...