Prepping for the SAT becomes
a crucial part of life for any junior or senior who is serious about
college. While some opt for prep books or in-school classes, many rely
on commercial test preparation services, such as Kaplan and Princeton
Review, shelling out thousands of dollars for what they hope are higher
scores. But how much do these classes really succeed in helping students
improve their grades?
A recent report commissioned
by the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC)
explored this question by analyzing the impact of test preparation on
SAT scores. The gains? “Positive, but small,” according to the report.
While many test preparation services claim increases of 100 points or
more on the SAT, research suggests that there is a substantially lower
average gain of only 30 points.
A thirty-point difference can,
however, be between you and your acceptance letter. While these points
are small, the NACAC reveals there are some universities and colleges
that “make inappropriate distinctions” among applicants. A few higher
points can give a student a lot of leverage.
The report has prompted NACAC
to discourage colleges and universities from putting a heavy weight
on the SAT when determining admission. But until the colleges and universities
listen to the NACAC, below are some low-cost SAT alternatives.
- Many high schools offer summer
SAT prep classes. Check out announcements from local high schools.
- As part of their marketing,
commercial test-prep services offer special SAT “boot camps”. Princeton
Review offers free SAT Strategy Sessions, classes, and practice tests.
- If you prefer a more interactive
approach, check out test prep video games. My College Options features the free interactive action game, Zero Hour Threat. Aspyr Media Inc.’s “futureU”
PC game, designed with Kaplan Inc., helps students study for the SAT
using math, reading, and writing games. “My SAT Coach”, designed
by Princeton Review, is available on the Nintendo DS and offers timed
drills, more than 2,000 practice questions, as well as two full tests.
- Always pecking away at the
iPhone? About.com released a list of the “Best iPhone Apps for the
SAT”.