You’ve probably heard classmates or teachers talk about what counts as a “good” SAT score. But the truth is, that number isn’t the same for everyone! It all depends on who you are and where you want to go to college. A score that’s competitive at one school might fall short at another. The real question isn’t what looks good on paper; it’s what score helps you achieve your goals.…

The SAT turns 100 next year! While it might seem hard to believe, given the modern version of the test students get today, the SAT predates sliced bread (1928), the ballpoint pen (1931), and TV (1927). And while the name is the same, the test has changed substantially in both its purpose and content areas. In order to understand where the test is going, it’s important to know its history–…

Homeschooling gives families more freedom to design learning experiences that reflect their values and goals. It can provide an academic challenge for the kids who need it, and a more accessible learning experience for students who need a more flexible environment. Yet that flexibility sometimes raises questions about standardized testing, especially the SAT and other standardized tests. For many homeschool students, the SAT is an important bridge between home-based education…

For decades, the SAT has been a major part of the college admissions process in the United States. Many students see it as a hurdle they must clear on the path to higher education, while parents and schools often treat it as a marker of academic readiness. Yet despite its long history and widespread use, the SAT has always been controversial. Critics argue that it creates unnecessary stress, reinforces inequality,…

Choosing between the importance of GPA and SAT scores can feel like a circus act; knowing how to juggle everyone’s expectations of you and the demands of your target colleges and your high school can be extremely challenging. Some students think that they can focus on one thing– just their GPA or just their test scores– and be ok if one of them is high enough for their colleges of…

In the past, students choosing between the SAT and the ACT had to factor in different question types, essay requirements, and even regional preferences. Now that both tests have gone digital, many of the old distinctions have shifted or disappeared entirely. But that doesn’t mean the SAT and ACT are identical. In fact, as testing organizations have embraced adaptive technology and redesigned their formats, key differences have emerged. Whether you’re…

Your second-to-last year of high school is full of obligations and opportunities, including standardized testing. Preparing for the SAT during your junior year can feel like a big task, but it’s one that pays off. Whether you’re aiming for competitive college admissions or merit-based scholarships, your SAT score is more than just a number; it’s a signal to colleges that you’re ready for the challenges ahead. The good news is…

If you’ve got your sights set on the Ivy League, you probably already know that expectations are beyond high. These schools are known for academic excellence, incredible opportunities outside of the classroom, a long list of successful alumni… and extremely selective acceptance rates. But one of the most common questions we hear is also one of the most important: what SAT score do you need to get in? The answer…

Pencils down, everyone! Where we’re going today… you won’t need them. That’s because today we’re going to explore the SAT format, and unlike the standardized tests of the past, the modern SAT is 100% digital. The paper-based version is officially gone, replaced by a streamlined experience that’s designed to be faster and more useful for you and the schools evaluating you. For students preparing to take the SAT for the…

If you’ve got your sights set on the Ivy League, you probably already know that expectations are beyond high. These schools are known for academic excellence, incredible opportunities outside of the classroom, a long list of successful alumni… and extremely selective acceptance rates. But one of the most common questions we hear is also one of the most important: what SAT score do you need to get in? The answer…