What can I expect from SAT or ACT tutoring?
Each student receives a tutoring program that is tailored to his or her needs, including practice tests and one-on-one coaching. I will meet with you according to what works for your schedule at your home (or, rarely, another designated location). The majority of our practice materials will come directly from the test makers themselves so that you can feel confident that your practice will prepare you for the real thing.
Why would I want SAT or ACT tutoring?
A good tutor can help you raise your score efficiently by targeting the topics and skills in which you need the most improvement and teaching you proven strategies and methods to do your best. You can definitely prepare for these tests on your own – it’s all a matter of how much time you have and how quickly you want to raise your score.
By how much do your students raise their test scores?
I can’t tell you anything about an individual student’s score, but I will be happy to talk to you about my students’ average score increases…send me an email if you want to know more. One thing that all of my top performers have in common: they did the homework that I assigned them.
When should I sign up to prepare for the SAT or ACT?
Ideally, we will begin working together at least three months in advance of your test date to help you reach your goal. While I will try to help in any situation, it takes most students at least six sessions to see an increase in their scores. Read more about your test prep timeline.
Which test should I take?
It’s your decision, of course, but in my experience I’ve found that students tend to receive equivalent scores on the SAT and ACT. I’ll be happy to give you practice tests for both tests so that you can see which one is more to your liking. There’s no rule that says you can’t take both tests – many students do. I get this question so often that it has earned its own page with lots of details.
How important are my scores on the SAT or ACT?
Your score will not make or break your life, but it can make your life a lot easier! SAT and/or ACT scores are just one component of your college admissions package, and their weight varies from school to school. Your grades, activities, teacher recommendations, and essays are all important facets of your college applications as well. However, your SAT scores may come up again in the future when applying to grad school, and some employers ask for them as well (I’ve experienced this personally here in the Houston area). If your scores are high enough, they may even help you place out of intro-level classes in college or qualify you for scholarships, which saves you time and money.
What score do I need to get?
Your should always aim to do your very best on your test, especially since your scores can have benefits beyond college admission (see above). Schools publish their score ranges for admitted students each year, so if you search the web for your school name and SAT scores 2014 or ACT scores 2014, you will find what the school reports their ranges to be. Remember: if your score falls outside a school’s range, that does not mean you will not be accepted into that school, nor does a score that falls in range guarantee your acceptance! If you want help figuring out the score range for a specific school or schools, send me an email.
Can you help me with my school subjects?
The answer is almost always yes – just contact me and let me know the subject or topic with which you’d like help.
Can you help me with my college applications?
Yes! I have helped numerous students with everything from their college essays to managing their time in order to finish their applications successfully during their busy senior years.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule a tutoring session?
Sessions canceled or rescheduled, except for true emergencies, with less than 24 hours’ notice are subject to a cancellation fee of 50-100% of the scheduled session. Your tutor will not ever modify your tutoring schedule with less than 48 hours’ notice, unless there is a true emergency (only two in 17 years).