Latest College Prep News & Tips

Right now, we’re helping many students plan out their time so that they can stay on top of the college application process. There are many moving parts that students need to keep track of, and it’s easy to miss something in the juggling act. For juniors, the spring semester is the time to really buckle down and get those details ironed out.

Make a Testing Plan

Making a plan for when you are going to take standardized tests is part of this process. Tests have registration deadlines and are not available every weekend. This is all additionally complicated by restricted capacity at testing centers depending on local regulations. There is no guarantee that there will be space for you, so don’t leave things until the last minute!

Once you have a plan for when you’re going to take the test, it’s important to start planning out your test preparation as well. Take a look at classes, books, and private tutoring. The earlier you get started the better. After all, it’s much better to realise you need more help while you still have a few weeks before the test rather than a few days before!

What About Test Optional?

What about test optional policies? Do you have to pay attention to all of this if you think you will probably be making use of test optional policies?

In our opinion – yes. Test optional policies serve several different purposes and end up being a great option for many students. However, having strong standardized test scores is something that improves your application. Why assume from the beginning that you can’t do well on them? Standardized tests can be incredibly intimidating. But they don’t have to be a negative point in your application! With the right prep and some hard work, you can achieve a score that will boost your application and give the admissions committee one more piece of evidence for why you would be an asset to their incoming class.

A strong standardized test score strengthens your application in a very tangible way. Don’t let nerves or anxiety get in the way! Many of our students who struggle with test anxiety find that working with a tutor gives them the skills and confidence they need to handle it. It is possible to get a good test score, even if you aren’t a natural test taker. Remember that you can always fall back on a test optional policy after you put the hard work in if your scores still aren’t as good as you need them to be!

At the end of the day, preparation is key – in all aspects of your college application.