Our Counselors Answered:
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Reecy ArestyCollege Admissions/Financial Aid Expert & AuthorPayless For College, Inc.
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Pros – it can increase your scores tremendously
Cons – you may not increase your scores, or you didn’t do enough research and took the wrong course or class or read the wrong book
Costs – $100’s to $1,000’s
Rebecca JosephExecutive Director & Foundergetmetocollege.org
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
If you can afford it, do it. Test prep matters. It can help with test strategy development, focus on areas of challenge, and so much more. It is not fair as all kids deserve some kind of test prep. The basic form is test prep books. The most sophisticated are group classes and individual tutoring. Find what you can as test prep can help. In this competitive world, do what you can to maximize your test readiness.
Ronald Harris
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
The biggest advantage to test prep is improved scores, but no method of preparation is magic. The higher your test scores are the more scholarship offers you are eligible to receive. The con to SAT/ACT prep is the cost. It is very expensive to take a prep course, however there are many sites that offer free testing prep.
Pamela Hampton-GarlandOwnerScholar Bound
SAT vs ACT
First the cost is relatively the same….check out the sites for each test because it depends on timing (early or late) and the tests (subject, with writing, w/o writing, etc)
Also, confirm that the institution you are applying to accepts both exams and that will help you decide which you should take
Differences: ACT has a science section and is often suggested for students who are strong in the science field; additionally unlike the SAT the ACT is set up so that when you complete Math, you do not return to it, The ACT has critical reading, math and science sections
SAT focuses on Critical Reading and Math only and is set up so that you may start with math, move to a reading section, return to a math section, go back to another reading section and so on, for some students it is more frustrating but if you are well versed in the areas you are fine with the structure. The SAT offers subject area tests that can be used to place out of a general education requirement.
Both tests have a writing section that most colleges require.
Basically, I advise students to take the ACT if science is a very strong area for them, it can often increase their score comparison and may be an advantage over the SAT alone, I do believe both tests provide an opportunity for some students to showcase their ability to tests well on prior gained knowledge, but it is not an absolute indicator for all students. Those who do not tests well may be slighted on either tests, not because they do not know the information, but the test anxiety is so high that they freeze and do less then they are capable of.
Test prep courses are expensive and have not been shown to boost scores high enough to out way the cost; reading and practicing using the many self guided resources available in books and on the internet may provide just as much opportunity as enrolling in a course and save your money to take the tests several times to get familiar with it and cut down the anxiety level by knowing what to expect.
Brittany MaschalFounder/DirectorB. Maschal Educational Consulting
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
The Common Application collects resume data or 10 activities. There are only a few schools that now even allow for an additional resume upload (Penn, Brandeis, Georgetown, to name a few). So, given that most schools don’t request it – aka they don’t want it – it isn’t all that important compared to other parts of the application. Although if a school gives you the option to submit one do it. Nothing optional is ever really optional.
Bill PrudenHead of Upper School, College CounselorRavenscroft School
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
The reality of test preparation is that it is less about the pros and cons of the various options than it is about individual learning styles. The organized classroom structure that characterizes many program is undoubtedly best for some, but for others focused one-on-one tutoring might be the best approach. Meanwhile, another student might be best served working on their own with a CD or computer program. There is no one best way, but there must be full student engagement for any approach to work. There is no one right answer and the approaches, the costs, and the relative convenience vary significantly. The one thing that can be said is that in today’s world of competitive admissions, if you can afford it, you should undertake some form of preparation, for if you do not, you may find yourself coming up short against the person who did.
Ted SkowronCounselorBrophy College Preparatory
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
If you have the motivation, time, and money for a prep course it will only help you. It will give you both strategies to attack the test and also practice time on the test, and both of these will bolster confidence. Often, local community colleges offer reasonable test prep courses. The cost and time commitment are two considerations when choosing a test prep provider.
Nancy MilneOwnerMilne Collegiate Consulting
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Everyone’s learning style is different. While some students are disciplined enough to study independently, others need the strong arm of a tutor or test prep service to keep them focused. How much money you spend on these options depends where you live, how long the course is, and who is providing the instruction.
Benjamin CaldarelliPartnerPrinceton College Consulting, LLC
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
There are basically 3 ways students can prepare for standardized tests. 1. They can buy a study book and work through it on their own. This is the least expensive method (30 dollars), but is also the least effective for most students. 2. Students can take a course with other students. This will provide structured overview of the test and general strategies. It can cost anywhere from 500 to 1500 dollars, but will be impersonal and therefore inefficient. 3. Private tutoring is the usually the best way to prepare. It will be the most expensive, costing between 100 and 400 dollars an hour based an the level of expertise and experience of the tutor, but will be the most effective, efficient and convenient way to prepare. I recommend some amount of private tutoring for almost all of my clients.
Patricia AviezerPresidentInside Track To College, Inc.
So many choices, so little time…
Yes, getting familiar with the style, content, flow and timing of these tests will help you score your best, but what type of test preparation will work best for you? Over factors to consider with any option is cost factor, time management, target date for testing and scheduling.
Let’s discuss some options…
1. Preparing on your own-meaning you purchase a book, DVD or gather materials from “free resources” to prepare. Only try this one, if you’re self-motivated, disciplined, organized and able to develop an individualized study plan over time.
2. Purchasing an online study program with feedback and remediation available 24/7-some of these programs are very powerful and if USED can raise your scores. My experience with this, works for about 40% of students who subscribe to these services.
3. Group SAT/ACT Prep classes-you need a structured classroom setting with a teacher in the room and the cost seems more economical. Downside here is there are 25 other students taking the class who are all at different levels of performance and the curriculum is standardized so you’re sitting through 6 hours of lessons in areas that won’t bring your scores up further.
4. Private one-on-one instruction-Cost factor here can be upwards of $100-$200 per hour and you’ll need 8-16 hours of instruction. And where did you get the recommendation for this person from? Make sure you’re provided with recommendations and that you follow up on them. Set up an interview to see what the “tutor’s style” and expectations are to see if this is a good fit for you.
Patricia AviezerPresidentInside Track To College, Inc.
So many choices, so little time…
Yes, getting familiar with the style, content, flow and timing of these tests will help you score your best, but what type of test preparation will work best for you? Other factors to consider with any option is cost factor, time management, target date for testing and scheduling.
Let’s discuss some options…
1. Preparing on your own-meaning you purchase a book, DVD or gather materials from “free resources” to prepare. Only try this one, if you’re self-motivated, disciplined, organized and able to develop an individualized study plan over time.
2. Purchasing an online study program with feedback and remediation available 24/7-some of these programs are very powerful and if USED can raise your scores. My experience with this, works for about 40% of students who subscribe to these services.
3. Group SAT/ACT Prep classes-you need a structured classroom setting with a teacher in the room and the cost seems more economical. Downside here is there are 25 other students taking the class who are all at different levels of performance and the curriculum is standardized so you’re sitting through 6 hours of lessons in areas that won’t bring your scores up further.
4. Private one-on-one instruction-Cost factor here can be upwards of $100-$200 per hour and you’ll need 8-16 hours of instruction. And where did you get the recommendation for this person from? Make sure you’re provided with recommendations and that you follow up on them. Set up an interview to see what the “tutor’s style” and expectations are to see if this is a good fit for you.
Megan DorseySAT Prep & College AdvisorCollege Prep LLC
Test Prep Works If You Do the Work
The obvious advantage of test prep is improved scores, but other pros include increased comfort with test format and content, decreased test anxiety, and enhanced content-area knowledge. Test prep isn’t magic, though: It only works when students put in the time and effort. While some diligent students are dedicated enough to prepare on their own for a minimal cost (under $50), others need the instruction and accountability of a structured program. The more personalized and time-intensive the program, the more it will cost. Online classes can be found for a couple hundred dollars, and traditional classes typically cost $600-$1,000, while private tutoring can cost several thousand dollars. Don’t be fooled by “bargains”: Ask around for recommendations and seek out experienced SAT/ACT prep instructors.
Jessica BrondoFounder and CEOThe Edge in College Prep
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
There are many different test prep methods, and while they vary in cost, type, and effectiveness, there is not just one way to study for the SAT. Some students do well with the least expensive option: studying from a test book. While for others this does not produce results because they need motivation from an instructor or tutor. For students needing an extra push, the next level of test prep would be an online course and then the more expensive options are in-person classes and private tutoring.
Helen Cella
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Some are better than others….practice, practice, practice
Laura Smith
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
If you’re considering taking ACT and/or SAT prep classes, the pros are that the classes will most likely prepare you for the SAT and ACT tests by mimicking the exact test day conditions. By the time the test day occurs you shouldn’t be in for any surprises. It is also customary for many classes to offer money-back guarantees or extra class time at no charge, if your standardized test scores do not improve after taking the class.
As for cons, be prepared to be just another face in the crowd. Depending on the class size, you will not receive nearly as much one-on-one attention as you would with a tutor.
When it comes to cost, independent classes can be expensive. They may help raise test scores but they will not help raise the chance of receiving a nice sports car as a graduation present. You’ll be lucky to receive a used minivan after your parents sign the check for your prep class.
It’s worth noting that you may find online-only courses to be more cost-effective. Or, if your school offers an ACT or SAT prep class as a free elective, your sports car dreams may not be dashed just yet. Prices vary depending on the amount of class time each course offers, but be prepared to pay more than $500.
Michael Smith
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
If you’re looking into hiring a private SAT or ACT tutor, one major pro is that all those excuses you use to get out of studying won’t hold up when you have a tutor looking over your shoulder. They’ll take you, step-by-step, through the questions and give you a better perspective than some books can offer. Plus, the one-on-one interaction with a tutor will help you concentrate on the parts of the test you really need to work on.
Unfortunately, the cons include knowing that while tutors may help, they aren’t miracle workers. Don’t expect a few hours with your tutor to be enough to get you into your first-choice college. You still have to put in the grunt-work outside of your sessions.
You definitely need to factor cost into this approach. Private tutors are extremely expensive. Not only will you not be receiving your grand grad gift, but you can also say goodbye to your first-choice vacation destination as well.
Robin Smith
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Looking into SAT and ACT test prep materials?
The pros: Books and computer programs are an inexpensive alternative to forking over money for a class or tutor. Usually books and CD-ROMs will include old SAT and ACT tests that will allow you to judge just which areas you need more work on.
The cons: Both these products rely on a good deal of initiative and understanding on the part of the person who uses them.
The cost: Inexpensive. Mom and dad will not need to take out a second mortgage. You should be able to buy quality test prep books and/or computer software for the reasonable price of $10-$35. Some publications offer a combined book and CD-ROM package.
If you’re easily distracted, you may want to choose another way to study. It is rare for a book or software to come with a money-back guarantee if you don’t do as well as promised and you most likely will not use everything the book or program has to offer.
Zahir RobbCollege CounselorThe Right Fit College
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Private:
Pros- Personalized to you. Typically doesn’t involve “upselling” of private label products.
Cons- Typically more expensive. You don’t know what you are getting. Buyer beware and make sure you do your research.
Name Brand:
Pros- More affordable. Reliable and usually options close to home.
Cons- Will often try to sell you products. Group setting means less personal.
Books/Websites:
Pros- Cheap, or free. Use at your own pace.
Cons- Requires you to be accountable to yourself.
Before picking any model, look at your budget, options available and what you really need help with. Need to brush up on some vocab and math formulas, don’t shell out thousands of dollars for help. However, if you need to drastically improve your score, put in the hard work and get someone who can really help.
Henry DelAngeloHigh School Counselor 20 + yearsYour Key to College
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
Prep on your own is the most cost effective; being disciplined enough to consistently take time to prepare is difficult. Taking a test prep class can be expensive but it will give you insight to the questions and will keep you on track. Individual tutoring can cost a bit less if you can pin point areas you need to focus.
Nina BerlerFounderunCommon Apps
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
There are so many ways to prepare for the SAT and ACT, from studying on one’s own to working one-on-one to taking a prep course. Some of these methods can be quite costly, and the most expensive ways to prepare may not be the best for a particular student. I recommend one-on-one prep if available (I have done this with students via Skype) because the professional can really customize the material and teaching method to the particular student. Some students are reluctant to ask questions in a larger setting. I also recommend that the prep teacher or organization use authentic College Board of ACT materials; nothing beats the real deal! While software is available and cheaper than prep classes, some students have not found it very effective. There is too much temptation to wander online for some; for others the feel of the pencil and paper is invaluable in preparing for these tests.
王文君 June ScortinoPresidentIVY Counselors Network
What are the pros, cons, and costs of various SAT and ACT prep methods?
SAT is used alone with other accomplishments subjected to different applicant pools. SAT is also normally used for scholarships. the studen’ts GPA is the single most important evidence alone with the curriculum selection and challenges of the courses.
Jolyn BrandOwner/DirectorBrand College Consulting
Evalute your test prep options
There are many programs and choices out there for preparing for the SAT or the ACT.
Many of those options, such as Kaplan, Sylvan and the Princeton Review, are scheduled classes that occur for a couple of months before the test. They range from $500 (Kaplan’s option) to $999 for Princeton Review. Many of these courses follow a set curriculum so the instructors won’t stop to assist an individual student with a weakness. Also, most of these instructors are college students or other individuals who happen to have done well on the test, but usually don’t have any teaching background.
Another option is a local college consultant or private tutor for test preparation. This option allows familiies more flexibility in scheduling and is usually more effective because the consultant can focus on a student’s areas of concern.
If searching for a consultant in the Houston area, please contact me for more information.
www.brandcollegeconsulting.com