How to Get a Good SAT Score… and what “Good” Really Means

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.…

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SAT for Homeschoolers: What Parents, Teachers, and Students Need to Know

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…

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The SAT’s Disadvantages… and the Strengths That Outweigh Them

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,…

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GPA vs. SAT: Which One Matters More in College Admissions?

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…

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Preparing for the SAT as a Junior in High School

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…

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What SAT Score Do You Need for the Ivy League?

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…

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Average SAT Scores You Need for the Ivy League

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…

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SAT Preparation for Beginners

Taking the SAT is a rite of passage for high school students– and it’s a rite you get to prepare for. However, the timing of that preparation can be really important. Start too early, and it’s a long, drawn out, painful process that ultimately isn’t that helpful. Start too late, and you don’t have time to develop strategies or learn how to take the test. Whether you’re a student just…

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The Smart Student’s Guide to SAT Self-Study

If you’re planning on taking the SAT this year, it’s time to start studying. For many students, that means buying the official SAT prep book, working through it, and hoping for the best. For some of them, this works… but for many, it’s actually quite ineffective. And that’s not for you. You aren’t going to settle for an ineffective study plan! If you’re here, that shows you’re already being proactive…

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Is Taking the SAT Important?

It’s been an odd few years for standardized testing. Between the challenges of the pandemic and universities dropping and then rapidly reinstating testing requirements, many students and families are wondering whether the SAT still holds weight. While some colleges have moved to test-optional admissions, the SAT continues to play a role in various parts of the college application process and beyond. So, how important is it to take the SAT…

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