The Six Pillars of Community Schools

As an organization that Vint Hill Educational Services reveres, the National Education Association (NEA) is more than 3 million people—educators, students, activists, workers, parents, neighbors, friends—who believe in opportunity for all students and in the power of public education to transform lives and create a more just and inclusive society.

NEA and its leaders and members in public schools across the country, have joined with families, communities, school districts, and other key partners, to implement a powerful tool to achieve “the promise of public education to prepare every student to succeed in a diverse and interdependent world.” Community schools provide not only tremendous opportunities for learning and success for students, but also offer hope, opportunity, and transformation to entire communities.

The Community Schools Model advanced by NEA includes six pillars of practice. Unlike most public education models, these pillars are adaptable to the needs of an individual school’s students, staff, families, and community and pay particular attention to creating, supporting, and sustaining a culturally relevant and responsive climate. NEA was instrumental in ensuring the inclusion of two pillars—high-quality teaching and learning and inclusive leadership.  

Strong and proven culturally relevant curriculum

Educators provide a rich and varied academic program allowing students to acquire both foundational and advanced knowledge and skills in many content areas. Students learn with challenging, culturally relevant materials that address their learning needs and expand their experience. They also learn how to analyze and understand the unique experiences and perspectives of others. The curriculum embraces all content areas including the arts, second languages, and physical education. Teachers and education support professionals (ESP) are engaged in developing effective programs for language instruction for English learners and immigrant students. These schools offer rigorous courses such as Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate. They provide learning and enrichment activities before and after the regular school day, including sports, the arts, and homework assistance. Schools address the needs of parents and families through programs such as English-as-a-Second-Language classes, GED preparation, and job training programs.  

High-quality Teaching and Learning

Teachers are fully licensed, knowledgeable about their content, and skillful in their practice. Instructional time focuses on learning rather than testing. Individual student needs are identified and learning opportunities are designed to address them. Higher-order thinking skills are at the core of instruction so that all students acquire problem solving, critical thinking, and reasoning skills. Educators work collaboratively to plan lessons, analyze student work, and adjust curriculum as required. Experienced educators work closely with novices as mentors, coaches, and “guides on the side,” sharing their knowledge and expertise. ESP members take part in professional learning experiences and are consulted and collaborate when developing plans to improve instruction. Together, educators identify the methods and approaches that work and change those that do not meet student needs.  

Inclusive Leadership 

Leadership teams with educators, the community school coordinator, and other school staff share the responsibility of school operations with the principal. This leadership team ensures that the community school strategy remains central in the decision-making process.  

Positive Behavior Practices (including restorative justice) 

Community school educators emphasize positive relationships and interactions and model these through their own behavior. Negative behaviors and truancy are acknowledged and addressed in ways that hold students accountable while showing them they are still valued members of the school community. All members of the faculty and staff are responsible for ensuring a climate where all students can learn. Restorative behavior practices such as peer mediation, community service, and post-conflict resolution help students learn from their mistakes and foster positive, healthy school climates where respect and compassion are core principles. Zero-tolerance practices leading to suspension and expulsion are avoided.  

Family and Community Partnerships

Families, parents, caregivers, and community members are partners in creating dynamic, flexible community schools. Their engagement is not related to a specific project or program, but is on-going and extends beyond volunteerism to roles in decision making, governance, and advocacy. Both ESP and teachers are part of developing family engagement strategies, and they are supported through professional learning opportunities. Their voices are critical to articulating and achieving the school’s overall mission and goals. When families and educators work together, students are more engaged learners who earn higher grades and enroll in more challenging classes; student attendance and grade and school completion rates improve.  

Coordinated and Integrated Wraparound Supports (community support services) 

Community school educators recognize that students often come to school with challenges that impact their ability to learn, explore, and develop in the classroom. Because learning does not happen in isolation, community schools provide meals, health care, mental health counseling, and other services before, during, and after school. Staff members support the identification of services that children need. These wraparound services are integrated into the fabric of the school that follows the Whole Child tenets.  Connections to the community are critically important, so support services and referrals are available for families and other community members.  

To learn more about Community Schools, click the link below.

LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

Summer Mock Test Dates
with a Live Virtual Proctor 

 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:

• ACT/SAT answer sheet

• ACT/SAT test booklet

• Testing instructions

Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.

Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below. 

Mock ACT test dates:

August 14, 2021

Mock SAT test dates:

August 7, 2021

August 21, 2021

Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.

Learning Gaps due to COVID-19

Educators Identify Learning
Gaps due to COVID-19

More than half of public K-12 educators say the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a significant loss of both academic and social-emotional learning for students, according to a March 2021 Horace Mann Educators Corporation (NYSE:HMN) report.

The report, Closing the Learning Gap, shares insights from the March 2021 Horace Mann Voice of the Educator Study, which surveyed nearly 1,000 U.S. K-12 educators to gain insight into the educational challenges caused or exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the findings:

• Over 97% of educators reported loss of learning by their students over the past year when compared with children in previous years.

• A majority (57%) of educators estimated their students are behind by more than three months in their social-emotional learning progress.

• When asked what the biggest obstacle to return to a “normal” education environment was, nearly half (47%) of educators cited a wider gap between academically struggling and high-performing students.

“For 75 years, Horace Mann has been dedicated to helping educators achieve lifelong financial success, driven by our desire to help those who are taking care of our children,” said Horace Mann President and CEO Marita Zuraitis. “That appreciation and respect has only deepened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Educators are working harder than ever to meet the needs of their students through an environment of constant change, and we are inspired by their enduring commitment to help each student reach their full potential.”
 

The good news for students is the 2021-2022 school year has strong potential to look more like a pre-pandemic learning environment. Teachers are eligible for COVID-19 vaccines in all 50 states. The Centers for Disease Control lessened social distancing requirements to three feet from six feet for students in most classroom settings, a development largely expected to spur more schools to re-open. Several manufacturers are testing their vaccines on children and expect to release clinical trial results over the summer.

With that in mind, educators have a wealth of ideas to best support students’ progress going forward:

• 53% see a need for a narrower focus on grade-level standards to ensure students learn the most important concepts for their grade level.

• 34% would like more paraprofessionals to provide targeted support to struggling students.

• 30% requested access to more social-emotional learning resources to help students process the events of the past year.

In the Horace Mann study, teachers stressed the need for transparency and involvement in workplace decisions as administrators weigh how to adjust academic practices and curriculum. Many educators emphasized the need for flexibility in adapting to the ever-changing challenges of the pandemic, and patience as teachers, administrators, students and parents navigate an environment none of them have ever faced before.

“In the midst of the upheaval of the 2020-2021 school year, 93% of educators said they were proud of how they adapted their teaching to meet the needs of students, whether in a remote, hybrid or socially distanced in-person learning environment,” said Horace Mann National Business Solutions Executive Kelly Ruwe. “Teachers’ experience on the front lines will be invaluable in charting the way forward: Surfacing new issues that need to be addressed, sharing successful approaches, and advising how our communities can band together to help our children succeed.”

The full report, “Closing the Learning Gap: How frontline educators want to address lost learning due to COVID-19” is available at horacemann.com/closing-the-learning-gap. And for information on ways VHES can help your child catch up in their studies, please visit our website. 

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23 Proven Sat Tips & Tricks in 2021

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Passing the SAT exam with a good score is as important as your GPA when it comes to applying to colleges after high school. So, getting a high score should be your priority while preparing for this exam. Interestingly, you don’t have to sit for this exam countless times to get your desired score. Simply read this article to learn 25 proven SAT tips and tricks that will help you excel in 2021.

The SAT, which started as an adaptation of the Army Alpha in 1926, has gone through some changes to become the modern SAT. One of the most notable changes is the splitting of the SAT exam into two sections—the verbal section and the quantitative analysis section.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• What is the SAT?

• Why the SAT?

• How Do I Get A Perfect SAT score? (Tips and Tricks)

  #1. Remove three wrong answers (Most important SAT tip and trick)

  #2. Always try to understand your mistakes

  #3. Pay careful attention to connotation and context

  #4. Make use of finding the evidence questions to your satisfaction

  #5. Use a particular plan to read the passages

  #6. Take note of passage introductions

  #7. Put more interest in the passages

  #8. Look for direct evidence

  #9. Concentrate on filling content gaps first

  #10. Try to resolve questions that you missed before looking at the answer explanations

  #11. Underline major parts of the question

  #12. Study formulas

  #13. Study grammar rules

  #14. Be careful with NO CHANGE answers

  #15. Skim the paragraph before answering rhetoric questions

  #16. Choose the more concise answer if both answers are grammatically correct

  #17. Study and Write

  #18. Use certain evidence

  #19. Prepare before the night of the SAT test

  #20. Skip the difficult questions

  #21. Bubble at the end

  #22. Double-check your answers

  #23. Stay calm

• What SAT score do I need to get into my school of choice?

• Registration for SAT in 2021

• What skills do I need for the SAT test?

• How do they score the SAT?

• Conclusion

What is the SAT?

The SAT is an entrance exam that most colleges and universities use to consider high school students for admissions. It is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test established and given by the College Board. SAT stands for Scholastic Assessment Test, which was initially known as the Scholastic Aptitude Test.  

The aim of the SAT is to check a high school student’s preparation for college. Also, it gives colleges one common data point which they can use to compare all applicants for admission.

Moreover, college admissions officers will assess standardized test scores together with an applicant’s high school GPA, the classes he/she took in high school, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors, extracurricular activities, admission interviews, and personal essays. The importance of SAT scores in the college application process varies from one school to another.

Nevertheless, the higher you score on the SAT and/or ACT, the more chances you’ll have to attend the college of your choice.

Why the SAT?

The SAT is a standardized test that shows schools that you’re prepared for college by assessing major skills like reading comprehension, computational ability, and clarity of expression. It gives schools reliable data on students’ performance in a nationwide exam.

You’ll definitely need to take the SAT or ACT if you’re applying to colleges or universities in the United States. This is because most schools need you to submit test scores together with your application. Depending on where you want to apply, your ACT or SAT score can determine about 50% of the admission decision. So, you really need a high SAT score.

How Do I Get A Perfect SAT score? (Tips and Tricks)

Studying for the SAT is usually an uphill task for most high school students because they don’t know where to start. A nice way is with the structure of the test and best approaches to it.

Below are some of the new tips and tricks for the SAT in 2021, which will help you to excel in your quest for admission to colleges and universities.

#1. Remove three wrong answers (Most important SAT tip and trick)

Well, the most important SAT tip and trick to have in mind is that there is only one correct answer for each question. So, ensure that you eliminate any other second answer.

Actually, it means that your first plan on the test is to remove wrong answers. If you find any question difficult, try to find reasons to point out the flaw in most of the answers instead of reasons why some options could work.

#2. Always try to understand your mistakes

This is a very important SAT tip and trick. Devote your time to understanding the mistakes you make on practice questions, the reasons for such mistakes, and the solution to avoid them in the future.

However, mistakes normally come from content weakness, time pressure, question comprehension issues, and careless errors. Above all, you have to understand your mistakes completely so that you can correct and improve your score.

#3. Pay careful attention to connotation and context

Look for words that show positive or negative connotations in the part of the passage that the question is talking about. Honestly, this SAT tip and trick will help you to remove some choices even if you have no idea which of the remaining choices is correct.

In context, make sure that you don’t look at the exact line that is referenced in the question. Also, look at the sentences around it. Similarly, look for contrast words such as “however”, “rather than” or “still”. 

#4: Make use of finding the evidence questions to your satisfaction

Actually, the new SAT format has questions that ask you to choose a portion from the passage that serves as the best evidence for your answer to the previous question. Sometimes these questions will stump you, and you should circle them and move on. However, the remaining questions in that section can help you greatly in finding out the mistakes and clearing up vagueness. At the end of the section, go back to the question you circled and you may find you now know the right answer!

#5. Use a particular plan to read the passages

Well, there are some methods you can use depending on your reading comprehension skills. The methods include:

• Read through the passage quickly

• Don’t skip straight to the questions

• Read the passage in full as you circle and underline important information

#6. Take note of passage introductions

There is a little italicized blurb at the beginning of every SAT passage. However, this blurb gives you a bit of an idea about the passage and its author. In fact, this blurb has valuable information, and if you ignore it, you could miss out on easy points. 

#7. Put more interest in the passages

Whenever you want to retain information while reading passages on the SAT, you can do it by forcing yourself to engage with the material. Just treat this as a learning experience. You’ll definitely find it much easier to remember what happened in the passage.

#8. Look for direct evidence

Actually, questions on SAT reading may sometimes look subjective, but the reality is that you should try to find direct evidence in the passage to support your answers.

#9. Concentrate on filling content gaps first

If you’re someone that has problems with basic math skills, you may have to put in much effort to improve. This eventually will help you to improve your SAT Math score.

However, the moment you notice you get stuck while practicing SAT Math questions—for example because you don’t like a certain content area—just work to overcome your content weaknesses before you do anything else. This SAT tip and trick is the fastest way to improve your scores.

#10. Try to resolve questions that you missed before looking at the answer explanations

Honestly, this is the best SAT tip and trick that will help you to truly understand how to solve questions you initially missed on the Math section.

#11. Underline major parts of the question

I advise you to apply this SAT math tip and trick on the math section if you’ve missed questions by unknowingly solving for the wrong value. In fact, just underline what you need to find in the question with your pen or pencil so that you will not be confused while calculating.

#12. Study formulas

There’s always a list of formulas in the SAT math section for you. If you start checking them, you’ll lose time and momentum. However, it is advised to have all the formulas memorized beforehand. 

#13. Study grammar rules

The SAT writing section has a certain systemized approach to grammar. It is advised to study the rules to reduce confusion. Even if you think you’re pretty good at grammar, it’s not always enough to just go by what “looks right” to you.

If you’re not used to some of the more outdated grammar rules tested on the SAT, just try to study them.

#14. Be careful with NO CHANGE answers

Once you realize that you’re answering NO CHANGE for several questions on the writing section, go back and double-check your answers. NO CHANGE will only be the answer for 25 percent or less of the questions where it’s an option.

If you’re selecting it more than that, you might be missing something. Be sure to check it again before you submit.

#15. Skim the paragraph before answering rhetoric questions

Rhetoric questions challenge you to inspect the whole paragraph or the whole of the passage to find the right answer. However, some of the examples of rhetoric questions are questions about sentence function, the logical sequences of sentences, and the author’s style and tone. Read through the paragraph quickly as a whole and then try to answer the rhetoric questions.

#16. Choose the more concise answer if both answers are grammatically correct

One of the very important tips and tricks for SAT Writing tests is briefness. This is one’s ability to use as few words as necessary to transmit an idea clearly. Before you can answer grammar questions correctly, you need to know which are the grammatically correct choices, then choose the most concise one.

#17. Study and Write

There is an essay prompt on the new SAT that requires you to examine an argument given in a passage. The examiners want to see if you actually understand the author’s point and can write a clear explanation of how he or she builds the argument.

You’ll be given fifty minutes for the essay, so try and spend about 10-15 minutes to understand exactly what the author is saying and how you’ll draft your essay from your analysis. This essay has been made optional.

#18. Use certain evidence

Try not to explain how the writer builds the argument in your own words, but prove your points with certain examples. If you’re skimming the passage for the first time, use a pencil to underline sentences or phrases that give evidence of the persuasive approach of the writer.

Also, you should use direct quotes in the essay to strengthen the most important points.

#19. Prepare before the night of the SAT test

Students normally get nervous on the morning of the SAT test and this can make them forget a lot of things which they need for the test. So, before the night of the SAT, here is a checklist of what you need:

• Admission ticket

• Photo ID

• #2 pencils and eraser

• Calculator

#20. Skip the difficult questions

If you’re having problems with a question, circle and skip it and move on before you waste too much time on it. Moreover, don’t spend more than a minute trying to answer any question in the math and reading sections. Also, don’t spend more than 30 seconds in the writing section.

Circle any questions that you skip so that they’re easier for you to pick out when you go back through the section. If you still can’t figure out the answer, take a guess!

#21. Bubble at the end

Honestly, a nice method to save time is to fill in all your answers at the end of the section. You can do this by circling your choices in your test booklet as you go along. With this SAT tip and trick, you’ll prevent going back and forth between your test booklet and answer sheet.

Moreover, make sure you only use this plan if you already know you can finish the section with at least 3-5 minutes remaining. 

#22. Double-check your answers

Make sure that you always double-check your answers first. While going through each section, circle questions that you’re not sure of so that you can double-check strategically.

Moreover, if you have enough time, you can even go through and check all your answers. By so doing, you’ll find any careless mistake you might have made while rushing to answer the questions.

#23. Stay calm

Try to keep a cool head on the test. In fact, once you see a question you don’t understand, don’t let it get you nervous.  You might need to skip some questions at first. Just breathe and take it one question at a time.

What SAT score do I need to get into my school of choice?

SAT scores alone usually will not guarantee your admission into your dream schools. For you to stand a good chance of getting into your school of choice, try to have an SAT score that ranges from the 25th to the 75th of the colleges’ percentiles for admitted students.

On the other hand, if your score is lower than the 25th percentile for a particular school, you might still gain admission. This is because 25% of admitted students had a lower score and they still gained admission.

Registration for SAT in 2021

Students can register for the SAT using the offline method through a mail or online. Using the online method, candidates should create a login ID on the official SAT website and go ahead with the registration process.

Here are the online registration steps:

• Visit the College Board official website.

• Create your account.

• Submit all the required details.

• Select which exam you want to take together with your nearest test center.

• Upload your passport photograph.

• Then pay the application fee.

Also, the steps for registration by mail are as follows:

• Get ‘The Student Registration Guide for the SAT and SAT Subject Tests, which is available at schools.

• The guide includes a registration form and a return envelope.

• The form needs to be sent along with a demand draft.

• The local representative of the SAT in India is the USIEF. The mailed registration forms will be sent to their regional office.

What skills do I need for the SAT test?

The SAT exam examines Mathematical, Critical Reading, and Writing skills of the applicants. It analyzes the skills which students have learned in their schools according to the College Board. Also, it tests the skills which are needed for academic success in college.

How do they score the SAT?

The SAT test is scored using a scale of 400-1600. There is always one score for Math and one score for Verbal—comprised of “Reading” and “Writing and Language” sections. Both sections are scored on a scale of 200-800, with a total possible score of 1600. You may take the SAT test more than once.

Passing the Standardized test is not easy but you can make it easier for yourself. It is important to study for the test. If you want to do well on the SAT test and gain admission to the college of your choice, remember that you can learn to improve your score by using these 23 tips and tricks. Read more below on assessing your current score and finding a personalized tutor if you need one.

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).

Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock tests for the ACT and SAT. These are taken in a group setting to simulate the testing environment. For the ACT and SAT, we will review the scores to see which test the student is scoring higher on. Since all colleges and universities accept both tests, it's beneficial to know if your child is scoring higher on the ACT or SAT. Check out our ACT versus SAT comparison chart for test differences. Sometimes the difference is like night and day, and for others, it may be a hairline higher on one versus the other. The student won't know which test is better, unless the individual takes one of each. We'll use our score concordance chart in order to make a test recommendation.

SUMMER 2021 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES  

WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.

PACKET INCLUDES:

• ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET

• ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET

• TEST INSTRUCTIONS

PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.

ALL ACT/SAT TESTS WILL BE PROCTORED VIRTUALLY THROUGH LESSONSPACE. THE DAY BEFORE EACH TEST, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAILED LINK TO JOIN THE VIRTUALLY PROCTORED TEST. THE TEST INSTRUCTIONS CAN BE USED SHOULD A STUDENT LOSE CONNECTION TO THE TESTING LOBBY.

ACT

Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below. 

Mock ACT test dates:

• June 12 , 2021

• July 10, 2021

• August 7, 2021

SAT

Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below.  :

Mock SAT test dates:

• June 26, 2021

• July 31, 2021

• August 21, 2021

We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils. 

We can send parents a practice test as well, to administer to their student in-home. We will send out a free practice test packet along with proctoring instructions. Parents must send the answer sheet back to us via email or mail. 

Mock ACT and SAT (Group Testing)

TESTS INCLUDE

ACT and SAT

$25 Registration Fee (1 Mock Test: ACT or SAT) Includes test scores comparison

Mock testing for the ACT and SAT, held in a group setting. Parents will receive a diagnostic score report and phone consultation. View sample student score reports: ACT and SAT. 

For the ACT and SAT, we will compare scores in order to determine which test is better for the student to take. See virtual mock test dates above for the 2020-2021 school year.

Taking Notes 101

Sitting in class and listening to a lecture packed full of information can be a little overwhelming, especially when you have to take notes on everything that the teacher covers. With so much new knowledge being introduced to you at once, how can you retain it all?

As a student, learning to take quality notes is the key to obtaining all of the information you need from a lecture in order to be successful. We are offering some tips to help you master taking notes during class.

Write, Don’t Type

With the rise of technology in the classroom in recent years, many students have taken to typing their notes instead of handwriting them. Since most people can type faster than they can write, students who take notes on a laptop often end up with more notes, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they are learning more.

Studies have shown that students who take notes on a laptop actually perform worse on conceptual questions than students who take notes by hand. Researchers believe this is because laptop-users tend to take notes verbatim, typing out every word the professor says during a lecture, whereas students who take notes by hand have to rephrase and summarize information in order to keep up with the lecture. This process of digesting and summarizing the information while taking notes helps with comprehension and retention of the information.

To get the most out of your notes, swap out your laptop for a good old-fashioned pencil and paper combo. If you have to take notes digitally during a lecture, try rewriting them by hand after class is over to reap some of the comprehension benefits.

Find a Format That Works For You

There are tons of different formats for note taking, and each one has its own benefits. Some methods may work better for you and your learning style than others, so it is important to find the one that is going to help you gather information the best.

We’re sharing a quick overview of some formats below!

• The Cornell Method: Divide your paper into two columns: a small one on the left for writing out main ideas, prompts, and questions, and a larger column on the right reserved for notes and details. At the bottom of each page, write a quick summary of the information on that page.

• The Outline Method: Use headings and bullet points to put information into a hierarchy. Indent to the right as your notes become more detailed and shift back to the left for each new main topic.

• The Mapping Method: Each main topic gets its own page for notes. Draw lines and boxes to branch out from the main topic to write subtopics and add finer details below or around each subtopic heading.

• The Charting Method: Divide your paper into columns and label them by topic or idea. Fill out the details of each topic below.

For a more in-depth look at the different methods and their unique benefits, check out this article. It outlines some popular note taking methods and pairs them with great examples. Then, try out some of the formats that seem interesting to you to determine which one suits your needs. You may even want to use different formats for different subjects depending on the information that you have to process.

Prioritize Information You Can’t Get Elsewhere

It’s pretty near impossible to write down every single detail, definition, and diagram that is presented to you during a lecture. In order to take good notes, you need to prioritize what information is worth writing down. In fact, one of the best things you can do to become a more efficient note-taker is to learn what NOT to take notes on. Yes, you read that correctly. Not everything needs to be included in your notes.

Prioritize taking notes on information that you can’t get after class or from another resource. Things the professor talks about such as stories, examples and answers to questions are often valuable learning materials that aren’t typed out in their presentation, so it’s more important to jot these down than a definition that you can look up in your book later. At the beginning of class, ask if the presentation will be made available to you afterward so you know what you can safely omit from your notes for the time being.

Make It Colorful

If you find it easy to get lost in all of the text on the page while studying your notes, brighten them up a bit by using different colored pens or highlighters. Colors are a very versatile tool when it comes to organizing information. Try using one color for each main point and its corresponding details to keep everything together, or try developing a color-coded system for different categories of information (ex. red is for a main idea, blue is for details, green is for a definition). Not only is this a great way to help you organize your notes, but the visual variation can also help make those long study sessions a bit more bearable.

Keep It Brief

Sometimes it can be hard to keep up with the professor when taking notes, especially if you have one that talks quickly. Stay in the game by making your notes as brief as possible while writing them. Abbreviate any words that you can and try using acronyms or other key words for terms that appear frequently in the lecture. You can always go back and revise your notes later to write out the full words and phrases

Re-Write or Type Notes After Class

Speaking of revising, going back through your notes after class and typing them up or re-writing them can have huge benefits when it comes to your learning. Viewing all of the information a second time can help you to retain more of it, and cleaning up your notes during this revision will make it easier to study them again later on.

Keep in mind, re-writing is not the same thing as copying. Taking the exact same set of notes again word for word will not do nearly as much to help you comprehend and retain the material. Instead, look at re-writing or typing up your notes as an editing process: Fill in missing definitions or phrases, fix sentences that don’t make sense, reorganize points for better flow, and summarize what you learned at the end to truly enhance your learning.

Compare Finished Notes with Friends

After finalizing all of your own notes, meet up with classmates to compare what you each took away from the lecture. You may find that someone else took notes over an important point or example that you missed, and you may be able to help some of your peers in return.

12 Ways to Prepare for Your Freshman Year of College

Tips for a successful freshman year

• Gear up for online classes.

• Read as much as possible.

• Research possible college majors.

• Polish social, people and soft skills.

• Embrace time-management tools.

• Weigh getting a job freshman year.

• Keep in touch with the financial aid office.

• Know how to stay safe on campus.

• Contact professors before classes start.

• Make the most of orientation activities.

• Research ways to get involved.

• Know where to go for academic help.

Be ready before classes start.

Moving from high school to college can be a big transition for students, and this year's incoming freshmen are facing new challenges as the coronavirus pandemic pushes many colleges to fully online or hybrid classes. For those stressing over this new life chapter and today's uncertainties, there are ways to prepare before starting those first classes. From researching academic support to developing strong interpersonal skills, the following tips can help incoming freshmen get organized and build a foundation for college success.

Gear up for online classes.

This year's freshman experience will likely be a bit different from previous years. Students can prepare for more online classes and new social distancing measures by checking their college's website frequently for updates. Before classes start, students should acquire all the necessary technology they might need to complete online courses successfully and research school resources before problems arise.

Read as much as possible.

College coursework consists of substantially more reading than is required in high school. Students should start getting used to the increased workload by reading books during high school and the summer before college. What you read is not as important as how much, but it helps to select recommendations for your intended college major or areas of academic and personal interest. 

Research possible college majors.

At most colleges, students don't need to know with certainty which college major they will pursue the first day of freshman year. But students should start thinking about what they might like to study in preparation to select courses. Those interested in prelaw and premed, for example, should learn more about those tracks if their college offers them. "Take the time to explore what type of academic advising programs are at your university," Jess Casimir, a former admissions ambassador at the University of North Carolina—Chapel Hill, wrote in an email. "It's always a good idea to make a connection with someone who can help you figure out the best plan of attack for completing all of your major/minor requirements."

Polish social, people and soft skills.

College pushes students to develop strong communication skills. From group projects to communicating with professors, an ability to convey ideas clearly and work collaboratively will serve students well. That includes dealing with social issues; many students will find themselves working closely with people from different backgrounds and life experiences, so they should consider taking advantage of diversity and inclusion classes or books. In addition, leadership and problem-solving skills will be important qualities when it comes time to apply for jobs and internships during school and after graduation. With that in mind, students should consider enrolling in courses that teach soft skills once school begins.

Embrace time-management tools.

Balancing the academic and social demands of college can be a challenge for even the most diligent student. But there are plenty of digital tools designed for students, and a little organization can go a long way in making sure time is used wisely. Smartphone apps and tools can help students limit time on entertainment and social media, and can help keep study schedules on track.

Weigh getting a job freshman year.

College is expensive, and costs go beyond tuition and fees. Day-to-day expenses make up a significant chunk of a student's college budget. A part-time job can alleviate budget strains, but also take time away from classes. Some students may also be eligible to participate in the federal work-study program, and college financial aid offices can help answer any questions before the semester begins. Before making the decision to work as college freshmen, students should talk to their families about financial expectations. 

Keep in touch with the financial aid office.

If a family's financial situation changes in the months before freshman year, there are options to get more help to pay for college. Financial aid appeals requesting more aid may become more common as American families experience unemployment and reduced work hours resulting from the economic impacts of the coronavirus outbreak. Stay in touch with the financial aid office and ask for more financial support if it's needed.

Know how to stay safe on campus.

Some students will find themselves taking courses both online and in person this fall as the U.S. continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, and it's important for students to feel safe navigating campus. Students should practice common sense by being aware of their surroundings and learning about how their college handles safety issues, including sexual assault. Both parents and students should take time before the semester begins to become familiar with the campus' safety resources and procedures.

Contact professors before classes start.

Cultivating a strong relationship with professors can go a long way in helping students succeed. Once students have selected their classes, they should consider emailing a handful of instructors or seeing if they can talk via videoconferencing or a phone call this summer. Make sure to be respectful and mature in all communications with professors and other academic staff.

Make the most of orientation activities.

Orientation typically begins in the weeks and sometimes months before classes start, but this year, it may be postponed or held entirely online. Still, it's a great way for students to get acclimated and ask plenty of questions. Realize that everyone is trying to make friends and adjust to a new environment, so don't be shy. After orientation, many schools offer unique first-year experiences that help students further connect with their classmates and college community.

Research ways to get involved.

College provides a number of opportunities for students to explore existing interests or embark on new hobbies. Whether it's joining a musical ensemble or getting involved in social issues, many schools make it easy to get involved. Having a plan of action before arriving will help students select meaningful activities and ensure they don't miss any important sign-up dates or meetings once school starts.

Know where to go for academic help.

Incoming freshmen should be aware that many colleges have offices dedicated to helping students brainstorm and write essays. Students having difficulty in a class or who just want to speak with a professor one-on-one should take advantage of open office hours. School libraries can also offer knowledgeable staff and study resources to help students. These options can be especially valuable for international students who might be struggling with English language skills.

Find more resources for college success.

The college journey doesn't end after freshman year, and there is a wealth of information on everything from finding scholarships to how to write a resume for opportunities like internships.

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What We Do

Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.

5 College Prep Tips to Take With You to College

As college bound high school seniors anxiously await their admission decisions, the thought of actually preparing for life on campus tends to take a backseat until they learn of their acceptance. Luckily for many of these students, they already have the tools they need to succeed in college – they just need to know how to harness them.

The college prep process may be over for college bound high school seniors, but there are a number of college prep tips that can carry students into their freshman year and throughout their college experience. The goal of college guidance is not just to help students gain admission to their top-choice colleges, but also prepare them for life after graduation. College counselors want students to feel prepared for their college experience, and the guidance offered during the admissions process can translate into skills that can help students make the most of their next four years in school.

Here are five college prep tips that students should use in college, too.

Plan Ahead
Planning ahead was important in preparing for admission to your top-choice colleges, and it’ll be even more important once you’re in college. Students are expected to be independent. There won’t be anyone to make sure you attend class, do your homework, or study for tests. It’s important to stay organized and make a plan for projects, studying, and even extracurricular activities. It’s also important to plan ahead for things like studying abroad, applying for research opportunities, finding internships, and other milestones that are important to your college experience. Stay on top of your work, go to class, and stay motivated.

Fit Is Key
Hopefully, if you started early and did your research, you’re attending a college that is a good fit for your social, academic, and financial needs. Fit is key when choosing where to go to college, and it is also important once you get on campus. Seek out activities, organizations, and other student groups that are a good fit for what you hope to accomplish on campus. Focus on fit when seeking out elective classes, partners for group projects, or even new roommates. Fit will continue to be an important metric throughout college, and even when you start looking for your first post-graduate job.

Your Grades Matter – Perform Well in Class
It was drilled into your head all throughout high school – make good grades – and now that you’re in college, that advice is more important than ever. For many students, the adjustment to college life can be hard, and their first semester grades will show it. It’s important to remember why you’re in college in the first place: To get a good education. Maintaining a certain GPA can be essential to staying in a certain program, keeping your current scholarships, or even qualifying for other financial aid opportunities. Your grades will also be important should you decide to apply to a graduate program.

Your Interests Matter – Find a Few Activities You Love and Make an Impact
You may have honed in on a specialty in high school, or have a few areas of interest you’d like to learn more about, so it’s time to really gain experience now that you’re in college. Get involved! Whether it’s with clubs, groups, organizations, or other activities that align with your major, or exploring a new activity that you’ve never had the chance to experience before, take advantage of extracurricular opportunities on campus and make an impact. Not only will this help guide you to better understand your current interests and explore new ones, it will also give you experience that can be highlighted in internship, job, and graduate admission applications.

Build Relationships With Professors, Mentors, and Classmates
In college you will have the once in a lifetime opportunity to meet new people and learn from some of the brightest thought leaders in your area of study. One of Vint Hill’s top college prep tips is to be present in class. Ask questions. Participate in class discussions. Get to know your teachers and ask for help if you need it. This is even more important in college. If professors offer office hours, go and meet with them. Be engaged in class projects, discussions, and lectures. Build relationships with your classmates and participate in healthy debate. Learn from mentors in your program, research project, internship, or other learning experiences. These relationships will enrich your experience and will likely last long after you’ve graduated, and can be beneficial when looking for a job or seeking admission to a graduate program.

Preparing for college extends far beyond just applying and getting in. At Vint Hill Educational Services (VHES) we work with students to not only gain admission to their top-choice schools, but also to prepare them for the next four years in college and beyond. Our tutors get to know their students and work with them to achieve not only their admissions goals, but also their academic and personal goals. For more information on how VHES works with students and our college prep services, contact us today.

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).

Click here to view our subject tutoring packages or here to check out our academic coaching service.

What We Do

Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.

3 Steps to Take After the ACT, SAT

3 Steps to Take After the ACT, SAT

What you do in the days after taking college entrance exams is just as important as pretest prep.

Most advice about taking the ACT and SAT instructs students on what to do in the days, weeks and months before the exam. However, the post-test period is also important because it requires specific and time-sensitive action from test-takers. If you have just taken the ACT or SAT or plan to do so, follow these three post-exam steps as soon as possible:

3 Common SAT, ACT Strategies:

• Order additional score reports if necessary.

• Decide whether to submit your scores to test-optional colleges.

• Review your performance with an eye toward future improvement.

Order Additional Score Reports if Necessary

Paying ACT and SAT test-takers are allotted four free score reports – the document that outlines your results – per sitting. If you retake either assessment, you will be entitled to four then, as well. Students with fee waivers are allowed an unlimited number of SAT score reports, while on the ACT the number is an additional 20 reports per exam.

The cost is $13 per college for each additional ACT score report and $12 for each additional SAT score report. Note that rush delivery incurs an extra fee.

On exam day, many students send their scores to four schools on their college short list. But students who forget colleges on their short list or who prefer not to choose right away are not obligated to.

The College Board, for example, allows students to use their four free SAT score reports even after test day. Don’t delay too long, though. The offer expires after nine days and the fee becomes $12 unless you have a waiver. For both the ACT and SAT, students can order a new score report at any time if they decide to apply to a new college.

Decide Whether to Submit Your Scores to Test-Optional Colleges

Not all colleges require prospective students to submit ACT or SAT scores. Some institutions have always had a test-optional policy in place while some others have adopted this stance recently.

Due to the academic upheaval provoked by the novel coronavirus, an unprecedented number of universities have abandoned their testing requirements. Duke University in North Carolina, for instance, is waiving the requirement for the 2020-2021 academic year. Others, like the College of William and Mary in Virginia, are making test scores optional for the next few years. Still others are lifting the requirement permanently.

If any of your prospective schools are softening their testing policy, carefully weigh whether submitting your scores will help or harm your application’s standing. Students who are content with their SAT or ACT scores may benefit by including them with their application materials. On the other hand, students who are unsatisfied and send their scores anyway may unnecessarily compromise their chances of admission.

Review Your Performance with an Eye Toward Future Improvement

As soon as they receive their ACT and SAT score reports, students tend to zero in on their composite score. The composite score summarizes a student’s overall performance, so its merit as a test-taker's focal point is understandable. In reality, though, there is much more to the score report that warrants attention.

One extremely helpful feature of ACT and SAT score reports is that they break down your performance by test section, making it easy to identify your strengths and weaknesses. When analyzing your score reports, look carefully for patterns and trends in the data. For instance, if you underperformed in algebra and geometry questions, you may particularly benefit from reviewing ninth grade and 10th grade math material before beginning college.

If you decide to retest – another decision to be weighed carefully – your score report should be the guiding force in your prep sessions. By no means is it a document you should look at only once; keep it on hand and refer to it often to ensure your studies are suiting your needs. Your score report may also dictate how you review for future college-level assessments.

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Check out our ACT versus SAT comparison chart for test differences. Sometimes the difference is like night and day, and for others, it may be a hairline higher on one versus the other. The student won't know which test is better, unless the individual takes one of each. We'll use our score concordance chart in order to make a test recommendation.

WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.

PACKET INCLUDES:

• ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET

• ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET

• *ACT/SAT ESSAY PROMPT

• FOUR PAGES OF LINED PAPER

• TEST INSTRUCTIONS

  *THE ACT/SAT ESSAY IS OPTIONAL. STUDENTS INTERESTED IN TAKING THE ACT/SAT ESSAY WILL CONTINUE ON WITH THE TEST AFTER THE FINAL MULTIPLE-CHOICE SECTION (ACT SCIENCE OR SAT MATH).

PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.

ALL ACT/SAT TESTS WILL BE PROCTORED VIRTUALLY THROUGH LESSONSPACE. THE DAY BEFORE EACH TEST, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAILED LINK TO JOIN THE VIRTUALLY PROCTORED TEST.

Private Mock Testing is also available. Please contact us for further information.

You Got Accepted - What's Next?

You Got Accepted - What's Next?

Things You Should Consider Now

Congratulations on getting accepted into college!

There are many things you should consider when making your final decision:

1. Wait for more options

2. Do your research

3. Talk it out

4. Reflect

5. Access your student portal

6. Keep track of deadlines

Learn more about what to do after being accepted into college and so much more with the FREE eBook, Planning for Your Future: Six Easy Ways to Start Preparing for What's Next

Things to Do After Receiving a College Acceptance Letter

1. Wait for more options. If you applied to more than one school, wait until you hear back from the others. Weigh the pros and cons of all your options before committing to the first school that accepts you.

2. Do your research… again. If you applied to a college, you’ve likely done some kind of research, and maybe even visited campus. Now that attending a particular college went from a possibility to a reality, you will likely view things a little bit differently. Before making a final decision, consider visiting (or revisiting) the campus as a first-year student. If a campus visit isn’t in the cards, use online resources to go on a virtual campus visit.

3. Talk it out. Talk to your family and friends about your options. Consider the costs associated with attending each school.

4. Reflect. Read your notes from your campus visit. If you haven’t already, make a college list to compare potential schools. Know what’s most important to you about each option (cost, distance from home, majors offered, student population, etc.). Sit quietly and picture your first day of college. What campus are you visualizing?

5. Access your student portal. Many schools have a student portal that hosts all the pertinent information and deadlines you need to know to move forward in the admissions process. Activation details are usually found in your acceptance materials.

6. Keep track of deadlines. Read through your acceptance letter completely and take note of important dates. Dates to keep in mind may include:

• Deadline to take placement tests

• Deadline to sign up for orientation

• Deadline to apply for housing

• Deadline to submit final high school transcript

• Deadline to file your financial aid documents

• Deadline to accept admission (and pay the acceptance fee, if applicable)

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).

Click here to view our subject tutoring packages or here to check out our academic coaching service.

Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.

What to do if you are waitlisted

Getting in to college just got harder.

Here’s what to do if you are waitlisted.

KEY POINTS

• In an application cycle unlike any other, more students were rejected or waitlisted at their top-choice schools.

• Now students are left with fewer options and only a short time to figure out their next move ahead of National College Decision Day on May 1.

Is big money and privilege blocking your kid from getting into an elite college?

If you were waitlisted at your dream college, join the club.

The hardest application cycle to date left more students in limbo than ever before.

In addition to the number of gap-year students who already accounted for as much as a quarter of next year’s freshman class, schools were “test optional” for the first time ever, which meant students didn’t need certain SAT or ACT scores—even though, ultimately, submitting an SAT or ACT score would help their application—in order to apply. That helped drive the surge in applications for fewer spots.

Heightened uncertainty due to Covid also encouraged students to cast a wider net, resulting in a record number of applications at many top colleges and historically low acceptance rates as a result.

“It’s almost a perfect storm,” said Hafeez Lakhani, president of New York-based Lakhani Coaching.

Lower acceptance rates, longer waitlists

Now students are left with fewer options and only a few weeks to figure out their next move ahead of National College Decision Day on May 1, the deadline for high school seniors to choose which college they will attend. (Last year, the coronavirus crisis pushed many schools to extend the deadline until June 1.)

At that point, they must cough up a non-refundable deposit to secure their seat at the school of their choice. And yet, many campuses remain closed to tours and visits, so students must also make these decisions sight-unseen.

And perhaps the biggest problem is that many students have been waitlisted at their top picks.

Waitlisted applicants have neither been outright rejected by a college nor have they been extended a formal offer of admission.

Instead, they may be considered for a seat between now and September, depending on whether there’s sufficient space for them in the incoming class, among other factors.

“For colleges, it’s a no-loss proposition,” said Eric Greenberg, president of Greenberg Educational Group, a New York-based consulting firm. “The more uncertainty about yield, the bigger the waitlist will be.”

Waitlists are an easy way to protect yield — or the percent of students who choose to enroll after being admitted — which is an important statistic for schools.

Nationwide, the average yield for freshmen at four-year colleges and universities fell to about 30% in the year before the pandemic, from closer to 40% a decade ago, according to the National Association for College Admission Counseling.

“It’s so more challenging for all of us to predict our class sizes,” said Leslie Davidson, vice president for enrollment management at Beloit College in Wisconsin.

Although Beloit received 3,300 applications for an incoming class with a target size of 260 students — and already received a record number of deposits as of the latest tally — the college could still be affected by waitlist activity at other places, Davidson said. When a student accepts an offer off the waitlist at another institution, they give up their spot elsewhere (and so on and so on).

Pandemic hammers higher education

Colleges with lower acceptance rates place more students on the waitlist and ultimately accept fewer of them.

Pre-pandemic, colleges granted spots to about 20% of waitlisted applicants, according to the National Association for College Admission Counseling, but that number falls to just 7% at the most selective colleges.

With far fewer students choosing to defer and many of last year’s gap year students returning, the percentage will likely be even lower this year, Lakhani said, “I expect that waitlists will not be heavily utilized.”

There are, however, ways to improve your odds.

How to get off the waitlist and into class

The first thing seniors who were waitlisted should do is write a letter of continued interest to the college to let them know why they want to attend, experts say.

“Pick one school that you would definitely go to and make a very, very clear statement: If given the spot, I would absolutely take it,” Lakhani advised.

Then, provide an update that demonstrates what you could bring to the table. For example, if you took classes or completed a research project that helped solidify why that school is now an even better fit.

Schools are waiting to hear what it is about the given student today that might be different from the same student a year ago.

Eric Greenberg

PRESIDENT OF GREENBERG EDUCATIONAL GROUP

Think: “How your story has evolved since you applied,” Lakhani said.

Finally, submit one more piece of information to help illustrate this new angle, such as an additional letter of recommendation or non-academic testimonial to your character story, Lakhani said.

Make a back-up plan for your back-up plan

In the meantime, “plans need to go ahead as if there’s no waitlist,” Greenberg said.

Settle on a school among the list of acceptances, based on which is the best fit in terms of cost, academics, campus life and other factors.

“That’s where it becomes imperative to see schools,” he added. “There seems to be a correlation between how well a person likes a school and how many times they’ve visited.”

Also consider the amount of aid available. Some financial aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, or from programs with limited funds. Students who were admitted in the first round tend to have first dibs on grants and other forms of aid.

“As time goes on, it’s typically harder to get financial aid if they get off a waitlist,” said Greenberg. “There are less funds available at that point.”

Covid has made paying for college harder, so affordability may be the most important consideration, after all.

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CONTACT US FOR A FREE PRACTICE TEST PACKET AND DIAGNOSTIC REPORT (VIEW SAMPLE STUDENT REPORTS: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, AND HSPT).

Click here to view our subject tutoring packages or here to check out our academic coaching service.

Vint Hill Educational Services offers test preparation for the ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. Each session is one-to-one for individualized support. The tutor will assign one to two hours of test prep homework after each session. The sessions are ninety minutes in length and test prep materials are included. The tutor will focus on the student's weakest areas of the test. In order to ensure improvement, the student will continue to take full-length practice tests throughout the course. The student will also learn tips and test-taking strategies.

5 College Admissions Trends For 2021

Five College Admissions Trends For 2021

The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the relationship between college-bound students, families, and the institutions themselves. Some believe that these changes are permanent—from the de-emphasis of SAT/ACT scores to the widening economic gap between well-off institutions and struggling universities to the trend of more students delaying their freshman year. Only time will tell how the pandemic will alter university trends for future generations. However, the following five trends will likely be of greatest impact in 2021.

Trend 1: Authenticity and resilience are prized traits for applicants

Admissions committees are less interested in students who dabble in a dozen clubs than those who go all-in on their strengths and show excellence in their chosen fields. This has never been more true than in the Covid-19 era, when many students do not have the option to participate in extracurriculars as they have in years past.

Students who have doubled down on their strengths and ‘wowed’ admissions committees by being themselves fare better than those who don’t. There are plenty of ways students can get creative and showcase their talents and hard work. Students can write books, conduct sophisticated research, and even found national and global organizations. Colleges want to see applicants with the internal drive and resilience to lead something bigger than themselves. Stories of adaptability, ingenuity, and community-mindedness will undoubtedly impress in the pandemic era.

Trend 2: Standardized tests will be “optional but preferred”

Universities in which an SAT or ACT score is optional tend to accept students with test scores more frequently than they do those students without. For example, at the University of Pennsylvania, 75% of students admitted in the early round submitted standardized test scores, whereas only 25 percent did not. So be aware that taking the SAT or ACT is probably a good idea if you are hoping to get into one of the more competitive schools.

Trend 3: More students will continue to apply to early admission programs

In the fall of 2020, early admission applications to Penn rose by 23%. MIT saw an unprecedented 62% increase in early applications from the fall of 2019 to 2020. Harvard has seen an increase of 57% from last year. This dramatic increase in early applicants among highly competitive schools may be explained by the fact that many of these schools, including all of the Ivies, no longer require SAT and ACT scores. Another factor: in years past (before the pandemic), students who applied early were more likely to gain acceptance—though the rate of early acceptance is decreasing at elite institutions due to the sheer volume of applicants. For instance, Harvard accepted about 7% of its early applicants in the fall of 2020, as opposed to nearly 14% of its early applicants in 2019. With travel plans curbed and high school seniors choosing to connect virtually with universities, students will continue applying in high numbers to highly selective colleges which they may not have considered pre-pandemic.

Trend 4: The return of international students to campus

With the advent of the Biden administration, we will see more international students back on campuses. Recent legislation that limited international student visas to four years (and in the case of some countries, two years) was in opposition to the long-standing practice of allowing students to stay in the US as long as they are in school and progressing in their studies. These policies resulted in a drastic decrease in the number of international student visas issued, from more than 600,000 in 2015 to 364,204 in 2019.

In a pre-election poll conducted by the Graduate Management Association Council, international candidates indicated that they would be more likely to matriculate in the U.S. if Biden became president. Under the new administration, federal agencies will likely work hard to facilitate international students’ higher education. It is likely we will see a significant increase in international scholars, even if some Covid-19 restrictions remain in place across college campuses.

Trend 5: More students taking a gap year before college

The Covid-19 pandemic caused many students to consider a non-traditional start to college. The number of students who chose to take a gap year rose significantly in the fall of 2020. The class of 2021 may choose a similar path and defer their college admission in order to explore non-academic interests.

The activism and organizing efforts of Gen Z, born in the late ‘90s, are well documented and have been compared to the youth movements of the 1960’s and 70’s. Members of Gen Z—which include current high school seniors—report being highly concerned about the environment, racism, discrimination against the LGBTQ community, economic inequality, and many other issues. Given the unrest in 2020 in regards to racism and pandemic inequalities, there will be a strong pull for future college students to go out and make a difference in their communities. This will especially be true if Covid-era restrictions remain in place this fall.

Mock ACT/SAT Test Dates with a Live Virtual Proctor 

 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:

• ACT/SAT answer sheet

• ACT/SAT test booklet

• ACT/SAT essay prompt

• Four pages of lined paper

• Testing instructions

The ACT/SAT essay is optional. Students interested in taking the essay will continue with the test after the final multiple-choice section (ACT Science or SAT Math). Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.

Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.

Mock ACT test dates:

May 8, 2021

more dates TBA

Mock SAT test dates:

April 24, 2021

May 22, 2021

more dates TBA

Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.

Learn more about our test prep program.

Find out how an academic coach can help.

Interested in pod tutoring? Contact us to learn more.

What's a Good ACT Score?

WHEN DETERMINING WHAT makes for a good ACT score, test-takers have to ask another question: "Good enough for whom, exactly?"

Like various other factors on a college application, the criteria for what makes a good test score are largely dependent on what schools want. A good ACT score at one school may fall below the mark at another based on admissions standards set by individual colleges.

"I think it varies considerably, depending on what schools you're targeting, and also what their current position is on testing, which seems to be quite a fluid situation these days," says Jill Madenberg, principal at Madenberg College Consulting in New York.

The coronavirus pandemic has prompted many colleges to go test-optional, meaning students can decide whether to submit ACT and SAT scores. Other colleges have gone test-blind, meaning they won't even look at scores submitted as part of applications. Many colleges made such moves after a string of cancellations by testing companies made it difficult for students to take these standardized exams.

The composite score on the ACT ranges from 1 to 36. The national average composite score was 20.6 for the class of 2020, per recent data from the ACT organization. This number marks a slight dip from the prior year, when the composite score averaged 20.7 for the class of 2019.

Determine a Good ACT Score for College Admissions

The national average may be down, but what ultimately is a good ACT score?

"Quite simply, there's no such thing as a good or bad score," Tony Le, a test prep expert at Magoosh, a California-based online test prep company, wrote in an email. "It's relative to the school that you are applying to & the context of the admissions process. The first place to look is the college's range of scores & you'll want to stay within this range to stay competitive."

But one ACT score that some college counseling professionals point to as the high water mark for selective institutions is a 34.

"We get a lot of students aiming for the Ivy League, and for the Ivies, it's a 34 that seems to be the magic number that students feel will give them their best shot," says Shahar Link, owner and founder of North Carolina-based Mindspire Tutoring and Test Prep.

Madenberg adds that "achieving a 34 or higher will get your application read at pretty much any school in America."

But students can and do get into many schools with much lower scores. After all, testing is only one part of an application, and colleges also consider letters of recommendations, high school GPA and admissions essays, among other factors.

Ultimately, schools' benchmarks vary. The national average ACT score for 2019 reported by nearly 340 ranked National Universities to U.S. News in an annual survey was 25.5.

Regarding ACT scores, experts advise students to look at the 50th percentile of students admitted in the most recent freshman class to know what ACT scores individual colleges value. Scoring in the 50th percentile means a test-taker scored equal to or higher than 50% of his or her peers. Theoretically, the higher the percentile rank the better the odds of admission at that school.

Students can use this benchmark as a rule of thumb, experts say. Being above the 50th percentile is a good sign. Although being below doesn't automatically disqualify students, it may mean that a school is a reach based on their ACT scores. In such cases, students may want to consider not submitting scores if that college is test-optional because submitting scores is unlikely to help their application.

Madenberg encourages students to personalize applications for each college according to where they landed in the 50th percentile range, so that they're sending scores to schools where they hit that target. "You don't have to do the same thing for every college," she says. "If you're applying to eight colleges, you can submit your scores to two or three of them and not the others."

And while many colleges are test-optional, submitting a score can still be worthwhile.

"If you submit a strong score, it's going to help you," Link says. "Or at least it definitely won't hurt you."

Similarly, Le suggests fewer students may take standardized exams as they remain optional at many schools, which means taking a test and submitting a score may offer another data point to evaluate an applicant and may help him or her stand out in the admissions process.

As for test-blind schools, there's no point in sending exam results to institutions that aren't even going to look at them as part of the admissions process or for determining scholarships, experts say.

How to Improve Your ACT Score

Performing well on the ACT often starts with taking a practice exam so students can see where they stand and what needs improvement. See the bottom of this page for information on taking a practice test online.

ACT practice tests can be a good way for students to familiarize themselves with the content and can serve as a diagnostic exam. Once students have identified their weak spots, they can work toward improving in those areas.

Test prep and college counseling experts generally encourage students to take the ACT at least twice. Nearly half of the students who take the ACT end up taking the exam more than once and typically improve their score, says Erika Tyler-John, ACT curriculum manager at Magoosh.

"One of the best things you can do to ensure your retake goes well is to learn as much as you can from your first attempt. Did you run out of time on any sections? Were there any question types you struggled with in particular? Did you experience more test anxiety than you do in your practice tests? Use your retake as an opportunity to address the things that impacted you (and your score) most on test day," Tyler-John wrote in an email.

She also encourages students to prioritize learning from their mistakes by investing time in the areas where they struggle.

"A great idea is to try to never make the same mistake twice – so once you make a mistake, dig into it to figure out what you did, why you did it, and how to recognize and fix it in a different problem," Tyler-John says.

In dealing with test anxiety, Madenberg encourages students to recognize that the ACT is just one of many exams they'll likely take in their high school career and to consider it "another day on the job." She also encourages students to recognize that the ACT score is just one of many factors that colleges consider and not a complete picture of an applicant.

"Colleges recognize that a test score is only a few hours of your time on one day," Madenberg says, "and it is not reflective or encompassing – good or bad – of who you are."

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Buy Any Test-Prep Package, Get 3 Hours Free
Through Apr 30, 2021
Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 one-to-one test prep hours for free when you purchase a 12-hour package ($345 value). Please contact us to learn more by clicking the link below.

Contact us to schedule a 20-minute test prep phone consultation. We can also help decide on which test to take, ACT or SAT. After we provide our recommendation, we’ll hand-pick the best tutor for your student. Sessions can be held in-person or virtually through Lessonspace.

We are here to support! As we handle the academics, this gives you time to ensure they are ready for “the world”.

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Rules on SAT Test Day

What to Expect on SAT Test Day

All test centers follow the same procedures and rules, which you should get familiar with before test day.

Important:

SAT Essay

If you're unsure about taking the SAT Essay, you may be able to remove or add it on test day with your coordinator's permission—if test materials, rooms, and staff are available. If you‘re able to switch on test day, there may be fees (or even a refund). Learn about changing your registration information.

Not yet registered?

On test day, bring a face covering and wear it as directed by the test center. Remember to also practice social distancing at all times.

Be prepared to answer questions about your health prior to entering the test center. If you feel sick the day of your test, please stay home and contact customer service for your options. You won’t be charged a change or cancellation fee if you stay home due to illness.

Check your test center's website for any additional or specific entry requirements it may have. If you're traveling to test, it's your responsibility to know and follow any quarantine requirements or travel restrictions in the location where you're testing. Test centers may require proof that you've followed quarantine requirements and/or travel restrictions at check-in.

Get the latest SAT covid-19 updates and information during this time.

Check for Test Center Closings

Monitor test center closings in the days leading up to your test and the day of your test to make sure your test center hasn't changed or closed.

We also recommend you check directly with the test center, including the test center's website, on the morning of the test.

Doors Open at 7:45 a.m.

All test centers open at 7:45 a.m. and doors close at 8 a.m., unless otherwise noted on your admission ticket. You cannot be admitted once testing has started. If you're late or absent on test day, you can reschedule. We recommend rescheduling as opposed to reregistering—it will cost less. Find out more about changing your registration information. We are currently waiving all change fees.

Make sure you show up with everything you need.

Get the test day checklist.

Testing Starts Between 8:30 and 9 a.m.

Your seat is assigned, not chosen by you. Wait to be seated. Here’s what will happen next:

• The test coordinator will read all instructions verbatim from a manual and can answer questions only about procedure, not about test questions or content.

• The test coordinator will tell you when to start and stop working on each section.

• You must work within each section of the test only for the time allotted.

• You may not go back to a section once that section has ended.

• You may not go ahead to a new section if you finish a section early.

• Do not skip sections. Doing so may result in score cancellation, delays, or both.

• After the test is finished, the test coordinator will collect and count the test books to make sure all materials have been turned in before dismissing you from the testing room.

Don’t be surprised if your test experience isn’t exactly like that of the student sitting next to you. The sections in your test book might be different.

Breaks

For most students, there is one 10-minute and one five-minute break during the test, the only times you can eat and drink.

• Keep your ID and admission ticket with you at all times. They’ll be checked every time you enter the testing room.

• Test books, answer sheets, and calculators must remain on your desk during breaks.

• You can't use this time to power up devices, like cell phones—if you do, your scores will be canceled.

Dismissal

If you take the SAT with Essay, you’ll likely be done testing around 1 p.m. If you’re not taking the essay, you’ll likely be done around noon.

Devices

We mention cell phones and electronics often, and for good reason. Your scores will be canceled if you don’t follow the rules around devices.

Things to keep in mind:

• Test administration staff reserves the right to collect and hold cell phones and other prohibited electronic devices during the test administration, including during break periods.

• If your device makes noise, or if you are seen using it, or if you attempt to access it at any time, including breaks, you will be dismissed immediately, your scores can be canceled, and the device may be confiscated.

• The College Board is not responsible for loss or damage to personal items, including electronic devices, while you are in the test center.

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Test Prep Deals

Buy Any Test-Prep Package, Get 3 Hours Free
Jan 2, 11:39 AM – Apr 30, 11:39 AM
Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 one-to-one test prep hours for free when you purchase a 12-hour package ($345 value). Please contact us to learn more by clicking the link below.

Contact us to schedule a 20-minute test prep phone consultation. We can also help decide on which test to take, ACT or SAT. After we provide our recommendation, we’ll hand-pick the best tutor for your student. Sessions can be held in-person or virtually through Lessonspace.

We are here to support! As we handle the academics, this gives you time to ensure they are ready for “the world”.

Mock ACT/SAT Test

Mock ACT/SAT Test Dates with a Live Virtual Proctor 

 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:

• ACT/SAT answer sheet

• ACT/SAT test booklet

• ACT/SAT essay prompt

• Four pages of lined paper

• Testing instructions

The ACT/SAT essay is optional. Students interested in taking the essay will continue with the test after the final multiple-choice section (ACT Science or SAT Math). Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.

Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.

Mock ACT test dates:

March 27, 2021

April 10, 2021

May 8, 2021

Mock SAT test dates:

April 24, 2021

May 22, 2021

Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.

Learn more about our test prep program.

Find out how an academic coach can help.

Interested in pod tutoring? Contact us to learn more.

---

Spring Special for Tutoring Packages

Receive 3 Free One-To-One Test Prep Hours

Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 prep hours for free, when you purchase a 12-hour package ($345 value).

Contact us to schedule a 20-minute test prep phone consultation. We can also help decide on which test to take, ACT or SAT. After we provide our recommendation, we’ll hand-pick the best tutor for your student. Sessions can be held in-person or virtually through Lessonspace.

Impact of CV-19 - Admissions and Testing

Impact of COVID-19 on College Admission and Testing

Before COVID-19, most colleges and universities had elaborate admissions guidelines that were designed to present holistic pictures of their applicants. Some of the criteria they used to form these snapshots included a student's GPA, test scores, their school's academic rigor, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, volunteer and work experience, as well as their essay.

But, the pandemic has changed all of that. For instance, some high schools are no longer calculating grades and some extracurricular activities are canceled. Plus over the summer, students were unable to get internships, participate in summer programs, prep for or take standardized tests, volunteer, and sometimes even work. Consequently, a number of students feel like their applications are not as strong as they could be.

Consequences of COVID-19

In fact, according to a survey by Art & Science Group in collaboration with the College Board, nearly 45% of rising seniors said that COVID-19 has impacted their qualifications or the strength of their applications.1

For instance, 30% of white and Asian students, said they were unable to participate in extracurricular activities, while nearly 25% of Black and Hispanic students were unable to participate in summer educational programs.

Additionally, 21% of Black students and 13% of white students said their grades had been "compromised" by the pandemic. Meanwhile, 23% of students from the lowest-income group in the survey said they hadn't been able to work to save money for college.

What's more, widespread cancellations this past spring and summer have prevented many students from prepping for or taking the ACT and SAT exams. In fact, at the time of the survey, two-thirds of the respondents had not yet taken the SAT and nearly three-quarters had not yet taken the ACT.

And, as many as 51% of underrepresented minority students, 51% of low income students, and 51% of first generation college students were less likely than others to have taken the exams. For this reason, the class of 2021 is likely to submit vastly different college applications than those who graduated in 2019 and 2020.

What to Expect

Colleges and universities have had to adapt to meet this ever-changing landscape of student applicants. Some have made their application requirements test-optional, created virtual campus tours, and are actively engaged in leveling the playing field as much as they can to accommodate the challenges students are experiencing—especially because some areas of the country have been hit harder by the coronavirus than others.

Here is a closer look at what your student can expect when applying to college this fall and winter.

Test-Optional Schools

Some colleges are waiting to see how the pandemic impacts high schools this year before making a final decision about whether or not to implement a test-optional policy.

That said, there are a significant number of colleges and universities that have made the decision to become test-optional already. According to the National Center for Open and Fair Testing (FairTest), more than 1,600 accredited colleges and universities have made tests optional for 2021 admissions.2

Consequently, before you shell out money for your child to take the ACT or the SAT, visit the the FairTest website to determine if the schools your child is applying to are test-optional this year. Also, keep in mind just because a school is test-optional, this does not mean they are test-blind.

In other words, if your child does well on standardized tests, be sure that they include their test scores with their application. Doing so will strengthen their application and make them a stronger candidate.

If, however, your student struggles with standardized testing or has test anxiety, then you may want to consider skipping the tests and highlight their other qualifications.

If your student is considering not submitting standardized test scores, they need to make sure the rest of their application is pretty solid. While not submitting scores is a nice option for students who don't do well with standardized tests, it also means that the rest of their application will be more heavily weighted.

So, if you and your student think their application would be improved by including standardized test scores—and your student is able to take a test before the application deadline—then by all means, take the test and submit the scores.

Canceled or Postponed Tests

When it comes to taking standardized tests, some students will find it easier to schedule and take tests than others. Both the ACT and the SAT have scheduled exam dates, but are leaving it up to each test site to determine whether or not they are going to offer the test. Both organizations are suggesting that students monitor their testing locations to be sure the tests are still being offered as planned.

If you are planning to take the SAT or an SAT subject test, you can visit the College Board's website to determine if your testing location has cancelled a test. The site also indicates whether or not a make-up test will be offered.

As for the ACT, they do not have a list of cancellations. But you can research your test center to be sure the test is being offered before scheduling your test.

Both organizations also encourage students who plan to take the tests to register as soon as possible for the exams they want to take. With limited test dates and locations—plus a backlog of students who were unable to take their exams in the spring or summer—the availability is limited. They also both encourage students to wear face masks when taking their exams.

Virtual Campus Tours

In the past, students showed interest in a college or university by visiting the campus. But, with many campuses closed to students this fall, admissions officials have started offering virtual campus tours for prospective students. Many are also reaching students through virtual question and answer sessions, personalized emails, and social media.

Here are some ways your child can make the most of this situation:

• Ask them to develop a list of the schools they're interested in.

• Encourage your child to reach out to their admissions counselor at their top schools and begin developing a relationship—even if it is only through email and virtual calls.

• Reach out to a professor or two within their desired major to introduce themselves and ask about the courses offered.

• Follow their top picks on social media to gather information and show interest in the school—especially if your student likes or re-shares the information they post. (Just be sure your teen cleans up their social media account before following their top colleges.)

A Word From Verywell

While COVID-19 has completely changed the college admissions process this year, there are some unintended positives to all these changes. First, the pandemic has leveled the playing field when it comes to making college visits and doing lots of extras to enhance the college application that low income students cannot always afford. No one is doing these things so it's forcing students to get creative in order to make their application stand out.

Second, because many campuses are closed, it's much easier for students to get in touch with admissions professionals because they aren't traveling much. As a result, be sure your student reaches out to them and builds a relationship. Plus, they are likely to be very empathetic to the things students are experiencing because their lives have been upended by COVID-19 as well.

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2020-2021 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES  

AS OF AUGUST 2020, WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.

PACKET INCLUDES:

• ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET

• ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET

• *ACT/SAT ESSAY PROMPT

• FOUR PAGES OF LINED PAPER

• TEST INSTRUCTIONS

  *THE ACT/SAT ESSAY IS OPTIONAL. STUDENTS INTERESTED IN TAKING THE ACT/SAT ESSAY WILL CONTINUE ON WITH THE TEST AFTER THE FINAL MULTIPLE-CHOICE SECTION (ACT SCIENCE OR SAT MATH).

PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.

ALL ACT/SAT TESTS WILL BE PROCTORED VIRTUALLY THROUGH LESSONSPACE. THE DAY BEFORE EACH TEST, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAILED LINK TO JOIN THE VIRTUALLY PROCTORED TEST. THE TEST INSTRUCTIONS CAN BE USED SHOULD A STUDENT LOSE CONNECTION TO THE TESTING LOBBY.

ACT

Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below. 

Mock ACT test dates:

• February 27, 2021

• March 27, 2021

• April 10, 2021

• May 8, 2021

SAT

Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below.  :

Mock SAT test dates:

• March 6, 2021

• April 24, 2021

• May 22, 2021

We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils. 

We can send parents a practice test as well, to administer to their student in-home. We will send out a free practice test packet along with proctoring instructions. Parents must send the answer sheet back to us via email or mail. 

Spring 2021 SAT Test Day

What to Expect on SAT Test Day this Spring

As the spring SAT administration dates approach, we want to lessen the uncertainty that has resulted from the coronavirus. One way we can do this is by making sure you know what to expect leading up to test day.

Health and safety

Our top priorities are the health and safety of students and educators. Local schools and test centers make individual decisions about whether to administer the SAT. All weekend test centers must adhere to local public health guidelines and follow College Board requirements. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You’ll need to bring a mask or protective face covering and will be required to wear it when you enter the test center and throughout the duration of testing. We recommend you bring a spare. You won't be allowed into the testing center unless you are wearing one. (Take a full-length practice test while wearing a mask before test day to prepare yourself for the test day experience.)

• You’ll be required by test centers to be seated at least 6 feet away from other students.

• Check your test center’s website for any additional health and safety measures so you’ll be prepared to follow them.

• If you feel sick the day of your test, stay home. Contact customer service on the next business day for your options. You won’t be charged a change or cancellation fee if you stay home because you’re sick.

• If we receive a report of a positive covid-19 case from someone at your test center, we will notify students and staff present on test day as well as local health authorities. Your information may be shared for contact tracing purposes if necessary.

To comply with local and College Board health and safety regulations, be ready to agree to the following when entering the test center or testing room:

1. You don’t have covid-19 or reason to believe you have covid-19. Symptoms include cough, fever, chills, muscle pain, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sore throat, and recent loss of taste or smell.

2. In the past 14 days, you haven’t come into close contact—within 6 feet—of someone who tested positive for or is presumed to have covid-19.

3. To your knowledge, you aren’t violating any travel restrictions or quarantining requirements.

4. You promise to wear a mask the entire time you’re at this test site and follow instructions from testing staff.

5. By entering the testing center and testing room, you accept the risk of covid-19 exposure. Although we’ve taken measures to create a safe environment, it’s impossible to remove all risk.

You should also check your test center's website for any additional or specific entry requirements it may have. 

If you're traveling to test, it's your responsibility to know and follow any quarantine requirements or travel restrictions in the location where you're testing. Test centers may require proof that you've followed quarantine requirements and/or travel restrictions at check-in. 

Students who violate requirements put in place by their test center or College Board will be dismissed from the test center, their scores will be cancelled, and they will not receive a refund. 

Communicating with you about test center closures and reduced capacity

Many locations will have reduced capacity because of social distancing guidelines. Unfortunately, we expect many test centers to encounter full or partial closures. We’re checking with test centers and asking them to report closures or reduced capacity as early as possible to ensure students are informed and to reduce uncertainty ahead of test day.

We’ll communicate changes about your test center’s status as quickly as possible. Students who are being moved to a different test center and students whose registrations are being canceled because a test center decides to close or reduce capacity will be directly notified by College Board. Be aware that there may be a delay between the test center closing and the email notification. In the days leading up to each test, we’ll give updates about test center closures as often as possible. We also suggest you check directly with the test center, and visit the test center’s website, the day before and morning of the test.

While your status in My SAT will be updated as frequently as possible, there may be delay with last-minute closings. Test centers may have closed or rescheduled to a makeup date at the last minute, even if there is still an active admission ticket. Please check this page, your email, and the test center's website the night before and the morning of the test, especially if you're planning to travel to your test center. 

We may need to get in touch with you if your test center makes the decision to close or reduce capacity between now and test day. Check your emails every day, and if you are in the U.S. opt in to receive texts. Here's how you can make sure we're able to contact you.

What to do if your SAT registration is canceled

Visit our website to register for a future test date. If you can’t find a seat at a nearby test center for your preferred date, be sure to check out other test dates.

See upcoming SAT dates here.

We know the virus has heightened the stress of applying to college for many. Colleges and universities understand that due to covid there are limited opportunities for students to take the SAT. Most aren't requiring test scores for the upcoming admissions cycle, and they’re rightfully extending deadlines and/or accepting scores after deadlines pass for students who choose to submit them. You can check college websites to get the most accurate information on their policies and deadlines.

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Receive 3 Free One-To-One Test Prep Hours

Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 prep hours for free, when you purchase a 12-hour package ($345 value).

Contact us to schedule a 20-minute test prep phone consultation. We can also help decide on which test to take, ACT or SAT. After we provide our recommendation, we’ll hand-pick the best tutor for your student. Sessions can be held in-person or virtually through Lessonspace.

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Vint Hill Educational Services offers mock tests for the ACT and SAT. These are taken in a group setting to simulate the testing environment. For the ACT and SAT, we will review the scores to see which test the student is scoring higher on. Since all colleges and universities accept both tests, it's beneficial to know if your child is scoring higher on the ACT or SAT. Check out our ACT versus SAT comparison chart for test differences. Sometimes the difference is like night and day, and for others, it may be a hairline higher on one versus the other. The student won't know which test is better, unless the individual takes one of each. We'll use our score concordance chart in order to make a test recommendation.

2020-2021 MOCK ACT/SAT TEST DATES  

AS OF AUGUST 2020, WE WILL BE PROCTORING TESTS VIRTUALLY ON SATURDAY MORNINGS AT 9:00 AM. UPON REGISTERING FOR A VIRTUAL MOCK TEST, YOU’LL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET VIA USPS MAIL.

PACKET INCLUDES:

• ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET

• ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET

• *ACT/SAT ESSAY PROMPT

• FOUR PAGES OF LINED PAPER

• TEST INSTRUCTIONS

  *THE ACT/SAT ESSAY IS OPTIONAL. STUDENTS INTERESTED IN TAKING THE ACT/SAT ESSAY WILL CONTINUE ON WITH THE TEST AFTER THE FINAL MULTIPLE-CHOICE SECTION (ACT SCIENCE OR SAT MATH).

PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.

ALL ACT/SAT TESTS WILL BE PROCTORED VIRTUALLY THROUGH LESSONSPACE. THE DAY BEFORE EACH TEST, STUDENTS WILL RECEIVE AN EMAILED LINK TO JOIN THE VIRTUALLY PROCTORED TEST. THE TEST INSTRUCTIONS CAN BE USED SHOULD A STUDENT LOSE CONNECTION TO THE TESTING LOBBY.

ACT

Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below. 

Mock ACT test dates:

• February 27, 2021

• March 27, 2021

• April 10, 2021

• May 8, 2021

SAT

Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below.  :

Mock SAT test dates:

• March 6, 2021

• April 24, 2021

• May 22, 2021

We also offer one-to-one mock testing at our offices. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT, and SAT Subject Tests. We provide the test booklet, essay booklet, answer sheet, testing timer, calculator, and pencils. 

We can send parents a practice test as well, to administer to their student in-home. We will send out a free practice test packet along with proctoring instructions. Parents must send the answer sheet back to us via email or mail. 

No More SAT Essays

College Board Will No Longer Offer
SAT Subject Tests or SAT with Essay

As students and colleges adapt to new realities and changes to the college admissions process, College Board is ensuring its programs adapt with them and is making some changes to reduce demands on students. College Board is no longer offering SAT Subject Tests in the U.S.. Because SAT Subject Tests are used internationally for a wider variety of purposes, College Board will provide two more administrations, in May and June of 2021, for international students.

• Students currently registered for an upcoming Subject Test in the U.S. will automatically have their registration canceled and fees refunded.

• Students who are currently registered for, or plan to register for, an upcoming Subject Test outside the U.S. can still test through the June 2021 administration. Students who no longer want to take Subject Tests can contact College Board’s Customer Service to cancel and receive a refund.

College Board will also discontinue the optional SAT Essay after the June 2021 administration.

• Students who are currently registered, or plan to register, for an upcoming SAT with Essay will still be able to test through the June 2021 administration. Students who prefer to cancel the optional Essay portion of their SAT can do so in their online account, with no change fees, until the registration deadline.

• After June 2021, the Essay will only be available in states where it’s required as part of SAT School Day administrations. Students scheduled to take the SAT on a school day should check with their school about whether the Essay will be included.

Writing remains essential to college readiness and the SAT will continue to measure writing and editing skills, but there are other ways for students to demonstrate their mastery of essay writing, and the SAT will continue to measure writing throughout the test. The tasks on the SAT Reading and Writing and Language sections are among the most effective and predictive parts of the SAT.

SAT FAQ:

What is the current 2021 SAT administration schedule?

You can find SAT test dates and deadlines here.

 

When will registration open for fall 2021 and spring 2022 SAT administrations?

Registration for fall 2021 and spring 2022 will open in June 2021.

Why is College Board discontinuing SAT Subject Tests?

To reduce demands on students. The expanded reach of AP and its widespread availability means the Subject Tests are no longer necessary for students to show what they know.

What should I do if I’m already registered for or was planning to take SAT Subject Tests?

Students in the U.S. who registered for the May and/or June 2021 Subject Tests will automatically have their registrations canceled and fees refunded. No further action is needed. If you were planning to submit Subject Test scores, check directly with the colleges you plan to apply to for alternative ways to strengthen your applications.

Students outside the U.S. can still take SAT Subject Tests in May and/or June 2021. Check with the colleges you plan to apply to for their SAT Subject Test policy so you can decide whether Subject Test scores will be valuable to you. If you no longer want to take Subject Tests, you can contact Customer Service to cancel your registration and get a refund or change your registration to take the SAT. The best way to contact Customer Service is to call +1-212-713-7789 (international). Customer Service hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. If you can’t call, email customer service at sat@info.collegeboard.organd be sure to include the following information: test month, test year, first name, last name, full address, date of birth, and name of school.

 

When will registration for international students who want to take Subject Tests in May and June be cut off?

International SAT and SAT Subject Tests Administration dates and deadlines can be found here.

Why do international students still get to take SAT Subject Tests through June, but U.S. students don’t?

Subject Tests are used internationally for a wider variety of purposes, such as advanced standing/placement at universities and local credential equivalences for entering colleges and/or as credentials for international students planning to study in some countries.

I’ve already taken SAT Subject Tests. Will colleges still accept those scores?

College Board has reached out to its member colleges, and they’ll decide whether and how to consider students’ Subject Test scores. Students should check colleges’ websites for the most up-to-date information on their application policies.

How long will score sending for SAT Subject Tests be an option?

Students can continue sending their Subject Test scores.

 

How can I show my skills in specific subject areas without the opportunity to take SAT Subject Tests?

College Board has continued to enrich and expand access to AP courses, which let students showcase their skills through challenging coursework. Many colleges already use AP course participation and exam scores as indicators of a student’s ability and interest in a particular subject area. And colleges also have access to information about student performance in key subject areas through their SAT scores, high school transcript, course selection, and other measures. Check directly with the colleges you plan to apply to for alternative ways to strengthen your applications.

 

Why is College Board discontinuing the optional SAT Essay?

College Board is adapting to respond to the changing needs of students and colleges. This change simply streamlines the process for students who have other, more relevant opportunities to show they can write an essay as part of the work they’re already doing on their path to college.

What should I do if I’m already registered for or was planning to take the optional SAT Essay?

Students can still take the optional SAT with Essay through the June 2021 administration. Check with the colleges you plan to apply to for their SAT Essay policy so you can decide whether taking the optional SAT Essay will be valuable to you. If you no longer want to take the optional Essay portion of your SAT, you can cancel in your online account, with no change fees, until the registration deadline. For information on how to add the Essay to your SAT registration, click here. visit collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/policies-requirements/changes.

 

Will colleges still consider Essay scores if I submit them?

Check with the colleges you’re interested in about their policies. If you take the SAT with Essay, colleges may consider your scores as part of their holistic review process. Students registered for the SAT with Essay can cancel the Essay portion if they choose to.

For more information on this development, please visit the official College Board websitehere.

Mock ACT/SAT Test Dates
with a Live Virtual Proctor 

 

VHES offers online mock SAT and ACT tests Saturdays at 9:00 am through Lessonspace, a teaching platform that enables our proctors to oversee virtual exams and gauge students' test readiness. Upon registering for mock tests, students will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:

• ACT/SAT answer sheet

• ACT/SAT test booklet

• ACT/SAT essay prompt

• Four pages of lined paper

• Testing instructions

The ACT/SAT essay is optional. Students interested in taking the essay will continue with the test after the final multiple-choice section (ACT Science or SAT Math). Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed link to join the virtually proctored test.

Upon completion of the test, parents and students receive a 9-page diagnostic report showing how the student is performing in each dimension of the SAT or ACT. This detailed report is used to establish a baseline score, is the basis for test-prep planning, and is instrumental in helping us customize a tutoring program that addresses the most pertinent test sections. For students taking both the ACT and SAT, we also provide a concordance chart with test recommendations. See what our baseline test reports look like: ACT and SAT. There is a $25 test registration fee.

Register for a mock test by clicking on a specific test date below.

Mock ACT test dates:

January 30, 2021

February 27, 2021

March 27, 2021

April 10, 2021

May 8, 2021

Mock SAT test dates:

February 13, 2021

March 13, 2021

April 24, 2021

May 22, 2021

Visit our Mock Testing page to learn more.

Learn more about our test prep program.

Find out how an academic coach can help.

Interested in pod tutoring? Contact us to learn more.

Combat the “Covid-19 Slide”

How Tutoring Programs Can Combat the “Covid-19 Slide”

The current pandemic has led to unprecedented disruptions in student learning in the United States. Remote learning, decreased instruction time, and fewer opportunities for personalized interactions with teachers have set the stage for widespread learning loss, also referred to as the “Covid-19 slide.” These risks are greatest for low-income students, students of color, and students who were already in need of additional support before schools closed their doors. As the education system works to stabilize and adapt, addressing learning loss must stay at the forefront of the conversation. Policy and education officials must be proactive in identifying strategies to combat the growth of preexisting inequities and gaps in educational access and achievement. Rigorous research indicates that tutoring — supplemental one-on-one or small group instruction — may be one of the most effective tools they can employ.

J-PAL North America’s new publication, “The transformative potential of tutoring for PreK-12 learning outcomes: Lessons from randomized evaluations,” summarizes a meta-analysis of 96 randomized evaluations of different tutoring programs. Drawing primarily from research in high-income countries, this publication examines the effectiveness of tutoring programs across a variety of characteristics, including tutor type, subject, student grade, and others. The meta-analysis finds that tutoring programs have consistently large, positive impacts on students across this range of program aspects. The magnitude and consistency of the findings point to tutoring as one of the most agreed-upon and impactful tools available to educators for improving student learning.

The review identifies valuable insights and trends across five categories.

• Program effectiveness: Across all studies included in this analysis, tutoring programs consistently lead to large improvements in learning outcomes for students, with an overall pooled effect size of 0.37 standard deviations. (Effect sizes greater than 0.3 standard deviations are considered to be large impacts, especially in the context of education interventions.) This impact translates to a student advancing from the 50th percentile to nearly the 66th percentile.
  

• Tutor type: Tutoring programs led by teacher or paraprofessional tutors are generally more effective than programs that use nonprofessional (volunteer) or parent tutors. Paraprofessional tutors include, among others, non-teacher school staff, undergraduate and graduate students in education, and service corps fellows. Paraprofessional programs led to positive effects of nearly the same magnitude as teacher programs and were more consistent in their outcomes. This presents a potentially cost-effective option for highly impactful programming.
  

• Student grade level: The effects of tutoring programs tend to be strongest among students in earlier grades, although a smaller set of programs at the secondary level was also found to be effective at improving learning outcomes.
  

• Subject material: While overall effects for math and reading tutoring programs are similar, reading tutoring tends to be relatively more effective for students in preschool through first grade, while math tutoring tends to be more effective for students in second through fifth grade.
  

• Time and location of tutoring: Tutoring programs conducted during school tend to have larger impacts than those conducted after school. Many programs shown to have weaker effects used parents as tutors or took place in an after-school program. Researchers hypothesize that it is difficult to ensure that tutoring actually occurs in these settings.

This publication is meant to serve as a resource for supporting student learning and minimizing the growth of academic disparities during the Covid-19 slide. In addition to highlighting tutoring as an effective educational tool, it also identifies meaningful trends to inform how tutoring programming can be implemented most effectively. Finally, the publication outlines key open questions about how to effectively scale tutoring programs, support older students, and make tutoring accessible to the students who need it most. J-PAL North America is seeking to answer some of these questions through their COVID-19 Recovery and Resilience Initiative.

We also invite you to explore how Vint Hill Educational Services can help if you need greater flexibility in the how, when, and where of your educational journey. We have a consistent record and demonstrated success of helping students improve their grades, scores, and overall academic functioning. In addition, all our programs are taught by highly qualified teachers and tutors. You can find out more about us by visiting our website or calling us directly at 540-680-4004. We're always happy to talk with you about your options and how we can help.

SAT Math Strategies

Strategies for the SAT Math Section

The SAT remains an important aspect for most college admissions processes, and schools use it as one factor to determine a student’s college readiness. It can even help students qualify for merit scholarships. There are a lot of reasons why you should do your best on this test, so we’ve compiled some of our expert advice to help you improve your score on the math portion, which goes from easiest to hardest.

1. Focus on a single question – Take it easy and relax. Don’t worry about the next 20 questions. You may feel the need to rush and that’s normal. If you’re patient, you will work faster and produce better results.

2. Utilize a two-pass approach – Answer all questions that you can on your first pass through. Each question is worth the same point. Don’t let one question suck up your time. Circle the question and move on to the next. Tip: The first set of grid-in questions is easier than the last handful of multiple-choice questions. If you’re having trouble, go ahead and skip to the grid-in questions. On your second pass, go back to the first question you circled. Use everything in your math toolbox and answer the ones first that you’re most comfortable with. Within the last 30 seconds, answer the remaining multiple-choice questions that are blank (bubble in any answer) and write down an answer for the grid-in questions. There is no point deduction for incorrect answers!

3. Use the process of elimination – Look to eliminate answer choices and you’ll have a better chance in getting the question correct. Consider values in the problem and use logic to your advantage.

4. Draw in your test book – Test booklets include extra white space. Use the space around the problem and to the sides. Write down steps, draw a chart, label the sides of shapes, and strike out incorrect answers. You can even rewrite important numbers or phrases. This helps reduce careless mistakes and justifies answers.

5. Don’t erase computations in your test book – This is a big waste of time. You can cross out calculations that you no longer want to consider. This is faster than trying to erase with your pencil, especially if you’ve written out a long formula.

6. Information that is irrelevant – On occasion, you’ll find that a certain SAT math question contains information that is not required. This piece of information doesn’t have anything to do with solving the problem. This can make students second guess themselves. If you’ve solved the problem without using the piece of information in question; chances are that you’ve solved the problem correctly. Put a star or X next to information that may not be required.

7. Re-check your work, but do it efficiently – Perform a quick spot check after each section. It’s better to do this at the end of each problem then at the end of the entire section. The SAT contains “attractor answers” that lure students into picking a false answer. They seem correct to the student because the student doesn’t fully understand the problem. Tip: Use your calculator to verify the answer. Plug in the answer to see if it fits into the equation. Make sure you answered the question correctly and not just a step towards finding the answer.

8. Turn algebraic expressions into solid numbers – Most of the SAT math problems can be solved by picking your numbers for certain variables. It’s good to know what types of questions can be solved this way. This approach works well with problems that have variables as their answer choices. When you pick your own numbers, you’ll be able to turn algebraic expressions into solid numbers. For example, a problem involving minutes or seconds, you might try utilizing the number 60.

9. Plug in answer choices – Plugging in numbers is a useful SAT math strategy. Try solving a problem in the reverse direction, by plugging in the provided answer choices. Doing so, will help tackle the more difficult questions. Plugging in is also beneficial on word problems.

10. Don’t forget about your calculator – Your calculator is only allowed on one of the two SAT math sections. About half of the questions on the calculator allowed section really require one. The calculator will find graphing points for you and take care of fractions. The best calculators approved by the College Board will let you compute trigonometric functions and setup graphing plots. Check the College Board website calculator policy section for more details.

11. Grid-in questions – There are 13 total grid-in questions. Grid-in questions progress from easy to difficult. Students should always answer the easier grid-ins before attempting the more difficult grid-ins. Make sure the ovals are filled in correctly. Grid-in answers will never be a negative number. Some grid-in questions have more than one correct answer. The student must enter in mixed numbers as improper fractions or decimals. Always start with the far left grid-in column!

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Prep with us for a spring ACT or SAT and receive 3 one-to-one test prep hours for free. Please contact us to learn more. 

We are here to support! As we handle the academics, this gives you time to ensure they are ready for “the world”. See our website for more info on tutoring and test prep during the pandemic.