SAT/ACT
The SAT and ACT are standardized tests offered by the College Board and ACT respectively that are required for admissions to most universities in the United States. As one of the four primary components of college admissions (the others being secondary school grades, essays, and extra-curricular activities), SAT/ACT scores are a crucial part of a student’s application.
Because the high-school grades of students are not directly comparable (two students that receive an A in a class but have different teachers or go to a different school are not necessarily at the same level of achievement), the SAT /ACTis a valuable tool that allows colleges to consider students’ academic ability side-by-side. This means that using tutoring to improve your student’s SAT/ACT score is a very valuable investment!
The SAT/ACT covers high-school level skills over five sections: reading, writing, math without calculator, math with a calculator, and an optional essay section. In addition, the ACT has a science section. Clara offers tutoring in all areas of the SAT and ACT, employing a holistic approach to help students reach their fullest potential.
SAT Subject Tests
The SAT Subject Tests are required by some universities for admission and test high-school level capability on a variety of subjects, including English, mathematics, various sciences, and foreign languages. Scoring well on SAT Subject Tests strengthens a college application by demonstrating a student’s knowledge of high school subjects at a more advanced level than the SAT/ACT.
AP Tests
Advanced Placement (AP) Tests are typically taken at the end of a year-long AP course and test students at a college level. While AP Tests are typically not required for admissions, scoring well on AP Tests proves that a student is capable of college-level work and at some universities will exempt students from entry-level requirements and give them college credit.
The GRE
The GRE is a test required for admissions to many graduate programs and consists of a writing, reading, and mathematics section. Similar to the SAT/ACT, it is an important part of a graduate school application.