Does SAT Prep Really Help?

SAT prep course

BIG Ideas:

  • Many top universities require SAT scores as part of the admissions process.
  • A strong SAT score can help you get into the school you want, earn a scholarship, and get more financial aid.
  • SAT prep courses are ideal for students who need structured learning and benefit from one-on-one expert instruction.

Preparing for college? Let’s begin with a test. Take out your No. 2 pencil and answer the question below:

Which of the Following Statements is True About the SAT?

A.    A high SAT score can help you get financial aid and scholarships

B.    Preparing for the SAT can help improve your score

C.    SAT prep courses offer a structured learning environment

D.    All of the above

E.    None of the above

If you guessed D, you aced the exam, which means you understand an important fact: SATs still matter. Sure, some colleges and universities have made SAT scores optional for admissions, but many top universities have continued to require the SAT.

So, is the SAT a good thing?

There are some pretty good benefits of doing well on the SAT. A strong SAT score can help you:

  • Improve your chances of getting into a top school.
  • Gain a competitive advantage from applicants with similar GPAs and extracurricular activities.
  • Qualify for additional financial aid.
  • Earn scholarships, also known as FREE MONEY!

So, now that you know how a good score can help you, you may wonder: How can I get the best score possible?

At the risk of sounding like your teachers or parents, you can start by studying and taking practice tests. You can also do what many students do to help prepare for the SAT: enroll in an SAT prep course.

These courses offer a variety of benefits that make them an attractive way to prepare for the SAT, including:

  • Structured learning. It takes motivation to study and prepare. Taking a prep class can help you prioritize your studying and focus your time on the right things.
  • Expert teaching. The instructors for SAT prep classes understand the nuances of the test and can offer real-life tips and strategies to help you.
  • Access to additional resources. Your prep course will likely come with helpful learning guides and comprehensive practice tests to ensure you’re prepared for the real thing.
  • One-on-one feedback. With the practice tests, you’ll uncover areas of improvement and can get personalized support and instruction to help you.

One of the biggest advantages of taking a course is that it can help reduce your anxiety and ensure you are in the best position to succeed. There is, however, a downside to enrolling in an SAT prep course – it can cost you. A good prep course can run anywhere from $1,000 – $2,000.

Is a Prep Course Worth the Investment?

That decision depends on you and the school and program you choose. For example, do you struggle with self-discipline and need a structured environment? Do you have test-taking anxiety that could impact your performance? Is the school and program you want to get into highly competitive? In such cases, it might be worth the money to take the course.

There are online resources that offer instructional videos, practice tests, and other study resources to help you, including:

The resources above are just a starting point in finding the SAT prep course that’s right for you. We encourage you to explore what works best for your unique situation, learning style, schedule and goals. Also, don’t forget to connect with your school guidance counselor, who can point you to valuable resources available in your community.

How to Prepare On Your Own

An SAT prep course isn’t your only option; you can also prepare on your own. If you do decide to go the self-study route, here are some strategies to help you boost your score:

  • Set a target score goal that you’d like to achieve.
  • See where you are by taking a practice test before you start your prep work.
  • Determine the best SAT date and time that works for you.
  • Create a weekly schedule to focus on SAT prep, ideally carve out 6 – 8 hours a week. You don’t ever want to cram for the SAT.
  • Keep taking practice tests to see if your scores improve with your preparation.
  • Identify areas of improvement and focus your study time on them.
  • Get a good night’s sleep the night before the test.
  • If you don’t get the result you want, hit the books and try the test again.

Whether you decide to take a course or study on your own, SAT prep could help you boost your score – and most importantly, get FREE MONEY toward the cost of college.

So, what are you waiting for? Start prepping today.

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