Why should I take the SAT or ACT?  

While many schools remain test optional, many others have returned to requiring standardized tests for admission, and we expect that trend to continue. Although it’s possible you won’t submit your scores to all of the schools you apply to, it is very likely that you’ll want to submit them to at least a few schools. Moreover, many students find that after they’ve properly prepared for the test, the SAT or ACT can actually be a great addition to their applications and another reflection of their academic strength!

Nearly every school accepts both the SAT and ACT. Very few, if any, require both. 

What’s the difference between the SAT and ACT?

While there are many factors that distinguish the two tests, the most critical differences are format, speed, and conceptual abstraction. 

First and foremost, the SAT is taken digitally while the ACT remains a paper test (for now). The SAT is split into four “modules” — two for English and reading, two for math. The modules are adaptive, meaning that how you perform on the first module of each section will dictate how challenging the second module is: the better you do, the harder it gets. The ACT, on the other hand, is split into four distinct sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. The test is linear, meaning that it doesn’t adjust to your performance. 

The ACT, despite being a longer overall test, affords students significantly less time per question that the SAT. That said, the SAT tends to ask questions in way that is more conceptually abstract than the ACT, requiring students “uncover” the meaning behind questions. The ACT tends to be more direct and requires more concrete thinking. 

How important are diagnostic tests?

Very important! Diagnostic tests are critical for making a thoughtful determination about which test is right for you. They also help us establish your baseline score and set attainable goals for prep. 

While we do accept officially administered SATs and ACTs as diagnostic scores, we DO NOT accept home administered tests for diagnostic purposes. 

Do you offer a score guarantee? 

No.

Given that every student’s test prep journey is unique, we do not offer a score guarantee. That said, we are confident that diligent and motivated students will improve significantly from prep. 

How many times should I take the test?

Most students will take the test between two and four times. 

Will you register me for the test?

No.

Unfortunately, test registration requires some sensitive personal information, so we leave that up to you. That said, if you need any help, we’re happy to talk you through the process! The SAT typically requires you to sign up two weeks or more before the test; the ACT typically requires you to sign up a month or more before the test. 

You can register for the SAT here: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration

You can register for the ACT here: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html

Do you offer academic tutoring other than test prep?

Yes!

We are proud to offer top-notch tutoring for nearly every high school subject. Give us a call or send us an email at info@kastnerhill.com to set up an academic tutoring session!

Do you offer in-person and virtual tutoring options?

Yes!

While we perform most of our sessions in person at our West Lake Hills or North Austin locations, we are happy to offer most of our tutoring options virtually as well.