#CampusChat 1-13 Higher Test Scores and Scholarships

Q1.  What is the role of standardized test scores in the scholarship process?  #CampusChat

A1a Some scholarship advisors estimate over 60% of scholarship applications require test scores these days. #CampusChat

A1b The good news is that test scores may be required but they may not be the deciding factor. #CampusChat

A1c Students may need scores to apply, but they shouldn’t let low scores deter them from a good-fit scholarship. #CampusChat

Q2   How can increasing test scores help students win more scholarships?  #CampusChat

A2a  The scholarship process is becoming more competitive and more similar to college admissions each year. #CampusChat

A2b Higher scores give students a competitive edge over other applicants for scholarships that are based heavily on scores. #CampusChat

A2c Or they may serve as a tie-breaker in a close competition. Either way, you should have a score you’re proud of! #CampusChat

Q3   How do you help students increase their test scores?  #CampusChat

A3a Quality test prep focuses on 2 things: academic review and score-specific strategies. #CampusChat

A3b My online courses follow a clear study plan that is completed primarily through video tutorials on those 2 topics. #CampusChat

A3c My on-demand video tutorials help busy students learn everything they need to know to do their best on the test! #CampusChat

Q4   What are the main differences between the ACT and SAT?  #CampusChat

A4a The ACT and SAT were quite different, but with the new SAT arriving March 2016 the gap between them is narrowing. #CampusChat

A4b New SAT has 2 math tests, one of which doesn’t allow a calculator. ACT has 1 with a calculator allowed. #CampusChat

A4c ACT has a science section. SAT does not. Also, the new SAT essay requires outside knowledge to complete. #CampusChat

Q5   Do you recommend students take the ACT, SAT, or both?  Why?  #CampusChat

A5a I used to recommend that students take both; however, with the changes coming to the tests, I no longer do. #CampusChat

A5b Since the exams are becoming similar, I encourage students to take a practice test *at home* – one of each. #CampusChat

A5c Once they’ve experienced both, they can see which they do better on and commit to preparing for that exam. #CampusChat

A5d You can find free ACT and SAT practice tests to print and take at home at higherscorestestprep.com/15free. #CampusChat

Q6   What are 3 ACT strategies students can use?  #CampusChat

A6a Accuracy is more important than speed! Timing is ACT’s tool to jam up your brain. Stay calm and do the work. #CampusChat

A6b You won’t finish each section. That’s 100% fine, but make sure you fill in every bubble before time is called. #CampusChat

A6c Science is the least familiar section for most students. Complete a few practice passages before test day. #CampusChat

Q7   What are 3 SAT strategies that will help students?  #CampusChat

A7a The new SAT has no guessing penalty – a big change from the current 2400 SAT. Make sure you fill in every bubble. #CampusChat

A7b Don’t wing it! Work through some new SAT math problems by hand (no calculator!) before the test. #CampusChat

A7c You’ll be asked questions about words with multiple meanings. Use context to decide which definition is correct. #CampusChat

Q8   How is your program different from how schools teach students to take the SAT/ACT?  #CampusChat

A8a Teachers are amazing at helping students understand a subject deeply. That’s so important as a foundation. #CampusChat

A8b The challenge is that most students work too hard on these tests. They know too much and don’t know what to apply. #CampusChat

A8c I teach students to step back and use what they know in a more simplified way. #CampusChat

A8d I still take the ACT and SAT as an adult. I teach the exact testing strategies that I use every time I test. #CampusChat

Q9 What about the new SAT? Should students take the new exam this spring? #CampusChat

A9a I am a very conservative test prep advisor so would never advise sending students in to take an untried exam. #CampusChat

A9b I am encouraging students to hold off on taking the new SAT at least until the curve has been set after the March exam. #CampusChat

A9c I’m taking the new SAT in March. I’m happy to be a guinea pig, but students shouldn’t be! #CampusChat

A9d In short, avoid the new SAT. Stick with the ACT until Fall 2016. #CampusChat

Q10   Please share your 3 best tips for students who will be taking the SAT or ACT this year.  #CampusChat

A10a These tests are mental marathons. You don’t run 26.2 on a whim. Prepare yourself for the mental challenge. #CampusChat

A10b Use a paid course, a book, free materials on Khan Academy – but do something. Preparation breeds confidence. #CampusChat

A10c Use the same letter when you fill in any blank bubbles. You’ll earn more points from your guesses. #CampusChat

A10d Follow these 8 tips the week before the exam to help you stay calm and do your best on test day. #CampusChat

A10e Lastly – it’s not about crossing the finish line. It’s about gaining as many points as possible along the way. #CampusChat

A10f Never forget: ACCURACY > SPEED   #CampusChat

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