This guide is designed to walk you through every aspect of how to visit a college, equipping you with the necessary knowledge to make an informed and astute decision about your future academic pursuits.
The 7 Best Extracurricular Activities for College Applications
While different schools put different stock in extracurricular activities, almost every college considers them when deciding which students to admit. For example, the University of South Florida ranks extracurricular activities just behind grades, difficulty of coursework, and standardized test scores in terms of importance.
The right high school activities can make a big difference during the admissions process. In this guide, we cover the best extracurricular activities for college applications and answer frequently asked questions.
6 Summer Tips to Prepare you for College
College can be demanding, so it’s essential to take advantage of the summer months to prepare yourself. From relaxing and recharging to getting organized and networking, these tips will help you make the most out of your summer break. By the end of it, you’ll have boosted your skills, made some valuable connections, and set yourself up for success.
9 Things High School Sophomores Should Be Doing
5 Resources to Prepare for AP Exams
You’ve Got This! Get Ready for Your AP Exams.
This year stay focused on following through. Completing an AP Exam always has benefits, no matter your score. It shows colleges you’re willing to challenge yourself by completing college-level coursework. And if it’s your first time taking an AP Exam, learn what to expect so you’ll feel confident on test day.
1. New for 2023- AP Daily: Practice Sessions
Mark your calendars for AP Daily: Practice Sessions, a new video series focused on practicing free-response and multiple-choice questions. These short, 15-minute video sessions will be led by experienced AP teachers. Two sets of video recordings will be released—the first set on April 17 and the second set on April 24. Both sets of videos will be posted on AP Classroom and YouTube and can be watched at any time before your AP Exams. Check out the session schedule here.
Note: Practice sessions are not available for AP Seminar, AP Research, AP Art and Design, and AP World Languages. However, videos on the Review page under Course Resources in AP Classroom are excellent preparation resources for these courses.
2. AP Daily Videos
Review and continue building your knowledge of course content and skills with AP Daily. Watch these short videos, taught by experienced AP teachers, on your own time to review and practice all the content and skills that will be assessed on your AP Exam this year. Log in to AP Classroom to get started.
Pro Tip: AP Daily Live videos can be viewed with closed captioning. Search words, scan, and get the information you’re looking for quickly!
3. AP Daily: Live Review Recordings
Did you know that you’re able to view last year’s AP Daily: Live Review videos? Access them in AP Classroom. Go to the Review page in the Course Resources section to view them. It’s never too early to start preparing!
4. Other AP Classroom Resources
AP Daily, AP Daily: Practice Sessions, and AP Daily: Live Review recordings are available in AP Classroom, along with these resources that your teachers may use to help you prepare throughout the year.
Topic Questions: Practice questions assigned by your teacher that check your understanding and give you immediate feedback on each unit topic.
Progress Checks: Assessments unlocked by your teacher to gauge what you know and can do after each unit of the course. Use the results to create a study plan for the AP Exam.
My Reports: A personal dashboard that shows your understanding of course content and skills over time so you can view your progress from unit to unit.
Additional Tips: Use this handy interactive user guide to get the most out of your AP Classroom experience.
5. Take advantage of our other free resources to prepare yourself:
Ask your AP teacher about a review plan that uses coursework, previous assignments, and AP Classroom resources.
Click the About the Exam tab on any of the course pages to learn about your course’s exam.
Practice for your upcoming AP Exams with questions created by the AP Program. If your exam has them, you can download free-response questions and review sample student responses and scoring guidelines from previous exams on the About the Exam tab of your course page.
Subject Tutoring with vhes:
Vint Hill Educational Services offers subject-based tutoring in math, science, reading, writing, English, history, and foreign language. Our tutors take subject-specific tests to demonstrate their content knowledge before being hired. We can guarantee they know the content.
Science Tutoring:
Earth Science
Physical Science
Geosystems
Biology
AP Biology
Chemistry
AP Chemistry
Physics
AP Physics
Math Tutoring:
K-7 Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
Trigonometry
Statistics
Pre-Calculus
Calculus AB/BC
AP Calculus
Foreign Language Tutoring:
Spanish
French
Latin
German
Writing Tutoring:
Elementary
Middle School
High School
Reading Tutoring:
Elementary
Middle School
High School
Phonics
English Tutoring:
Middle School
High School
AP English
AP Literature and Composition
History Tutoring:
World History
AP World History
US History
AP US History
Government
AP Government
Vint Hill does not just assign any available tutor; we actually handpick the best tutor for your child. Before accepting the tutor, parents receive a tutor profile to review and approve. The tutor matching process consists of the following: subject area knowledge, tutor education, tutor personality, tutor background, student weaknesses, student schedule, and location preference (at our office, in-home, public library, local coffee shop, or virtual).
Parents receive access to our online Teachworks tutoring system and will be able to review tutor session notes, receive session email reminders, plus keep track of session hours used/hours remaining.
Key Facts About Digital AP Exams
Key Facts About Digital AP Exams
The Advanced Placement Program® (AP) enables willing and academically prepared students to pursue college-level studies while still in high school.
The program consists of college-level courses developed by the AP Program that high schools can choose to offer, and corresponding exams that are administered once a year.
Digital exams are available for 7 AP subjects in May 2023:
AP Computer Science Principles
AP English Language and Composition
AP English Literature and Composition
AP European History
AP Seminar
AP U.S. History
AP World History: Modern
The digital option is available to schools in the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.
Digital exams are optional. Schools make local decisions and choose to offer digital, paper, or a combination of paper and digital.
No application is required to order digital exams. The AP coordinator indicates the mode for relevant exams in AP Registration and Ordering.
AP coordinators work with school or district technology staff on the school’s technical readiness for digital testing.
Resources are available to help schools get ready to administer digital AP Exams.
Digital exams are proctored and administered in school on the same schedule as paper exams. They may not be taken at home.
Digital exams include the same number of sections, number and type of questions, question choice (if applicable), and timing as the paper exams.
Students can go back within a section or part to review or complete previous questions. As on the paper exam, students may not return to parts within a section that have already been completed.
Students can use the Bluebook™ testing app on a wide range of devices.
Bluebook requirements are typical of other applications used in schools.
Accommodations such as extended time are provided in Bluebook.
Full instructional planning reports will be available to schools and teachers for students who take digital AP Exams.
Fast Facts
There are 38 AP courses in seven subject categories.
Each AP course is modeled on a comparable introductory college course in the subject. Learn how AP courses are developed.
Each course culminates in a standardized college-level assessment, or AP Exam.
AP Exams are given in May each year at testing locations all over the world.
Schools must be authorized by the AP Course Audit to offer approved AP courses and use the AP designation.
Benefits
Taking AP courses and exams can help students:
Stand out on college applications. AP courses on a student’s transcript shows that they’ve challenged themselves with the most rigorous courses available to them. And success on an AP Exam shows that they’re ready for college-level coursework.
Earn college credit and/or skip introductory courses in college. Most four-year colleges and universities in the United States—as well as many institutions in more than 100 other countries—grant students credit, placement, or both for qualifying AP Exam scores. Search credit policies by college.
Vint Hill Educational Services offers subject-based tutoring in math, science, reading, writing, English, history, and foreign language. Our tutors take subject-specific tests to demonstrate their content knowledge before being hired. We can guarantee they know the content.
Science Tutoring:
Earth Science
Physical Science
Geosystems
Biology
AP Biology
Chemistry
AP Chemistry
Physics
AP Physics
Math Tutoring:
K-7 Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry
Trigonometry
Statistics
Pre-Calculus
Calculus AB/BC
AP Calculus
Foreign Language Tutoring:
Spanish
French
Latin
German
Writing Tutoring:
Elementary
Middle School
High School
Reading Tutoring:
Elementary
Middle School
High School
Phonics
English Tutoring:
Middle School
High School
AP English
AP Literature and Composition
History Tutoring:
World History
AP World History
US History
AP US History
Government
AP Government
Vint Hill does not just assign any available tutor; we actually handpick the best tutor for your child. Before accepting the tutor, parents receive a tutor profile to review and approve. The tutor matching process consists of the following: subject area knowledge, tutor education, tutor personality, tutor background, student weaknesses, student schedule, and location preference (at our office, in-home, public library, local coffee shop, or virtual).
Parents receive access to our online Teachworks tutoring system and will be able to review tutor session notes, receive session email reminders, plus keep track of session hours used/hours remaining.
For more info, visit us at www.vinthilles.com or contact us here.
Digital SAT Brings Student-Friendly Changes to Test Experience
In early 2022, The College Board announced plans to shift the SAT to a computer-based format. The pencil-and-paper version will be retired and students will eventually only be able to take the test digitally (unless they need accommodations that require a physical version of the test). Moreover, the new SAT will be adaptive — the content of the test will adjust according to each student’s performance within the first module.
Understanding Your AP Exam Score
How Are AP Exams Scored?
If you’re studying for an AP exam right now or are thinking about taking an AP class in the future, you might be wondering: how are AP exams scored?
In this post, we'll break down the scoring process, all the way from the raw scores you earn on the multiple-choice section and essays to how you get a final score on a scale of 1-5. Knowing how AP exams are scored can help you do your best on them—especially if you want a perfect 5!
The AP Scoring Scale
Each AP test is given a score from 1 to 5. According to the College Board (the group that administers AP tests), these numbers translate in the following ways:
5: Extremely Well Qualified
4: Well Qualified
3: Qualified
2: Possibly Qualified
1: No recommendation
Any score that's 3 or higher is considered a passing score, though some colleges only accept 4s and 5s for credit. (See AP’s college database for specific policies at each university.) Getting a 5 is especially desirable because, for most exams, it puts you in the top 10-20% of scorers.
Your 1-5 score is a scaled score, converted from a composite score. Your composite score is calculated from the total number of raw points you earned from your correct multiple-choice answers and your free response. It’s a bit confusing, but we will guide you through the process!
How Are AP Tests Scored?
The majority of AP exams consist of two sections: multiple choice and free response. On some exams each section is weighted equally, whereas on others one section is worth slightly more. You can look up the specifics for each exam on the official AP courses pages.
The multiple-choice section is graded by a computer. There are no deductions for incorrect or blank answers, so your raw multiple-choice score is simply the number of questions you get correct.
The free-response section is graded during the annual AP Reading held in the first two weeks of June. The AP Reading is basically a huge convention. Tons of teachers and college professors gather to grade thousands and thousands of student-written responses for each exam.
This is why you don't get your AP scores until July even though you take the test in May: the written portion of your exam isn't graded until mid-June.
After that, the College Board has to calculate the composite score and final scaled score for each exam, equating the test so the scores stay even from year to year. (For example, they want to make sure a 3 on the AP US History exam means the same thing from one year to another, even if one version of the test turned out to be more difficult for students.)
(Side note: There is a good chance that an AP teacher at your school goes to the AP Reading each year. It can be interesting and helpful to talk to them about what happens at the convention, how quickly free responses are scored, and the best and worse free responses they’ve seen. These are answers that will vary a lot from subject to subject but could ultimately be helpful to you!)
Each free response is given a "holistic" score, meaning it's evaluated for its overall effectiveness or correctness. Typically, points aren’t deducted for the occasional small error, such as a spelling or grammar mistake. Most tests grade their free responses between 1 and 9, with 1 being least effective and 9 being nearly perfect.
Your raw free-response score is the total of the scores you get for each response.
Looking for help studying for your AP exam?
Our one-on-one online AP tutoring services can help you prepare for your AP exams. Get matched with a top tutor who got a high score on the exam you're studying for!
How to Get a Scaled AP Score Between 1 and 5
After your multiple-choice section is graded by a machine and your free response is graded by a human, your essay and multiple-choice scores are combined to give you a composite score. This score is just a way of combining the two section scores so that they are weighted correctly. For example, for AP English, multiple choice is worth 45% and free response is worth 55%. Often, composite scores are between 0 and 100, or 0 and 150.
The composite score is then converted to a number on the scaled score range 1-5. This means that for each scaled score, there is a range of possible composite scores that could earn it. For example, a 5 could be any composite score between 110 and 150 on one exam.
Since scaling varies year to year, there are no exact cutoff numbers for scores for AP tests, and the College Board does not release detailed scoring data. Furthermore, you will not see what your composite score was on your AP score report—you'll only get the final number between 1 and 5.
However, many teachers, prep books, and websites have come up with formulas to predict the scaled score for each AP test, which can help when you are grading your practice tests and trying to come up with a target score.
Scoring Example: AP English Language and Composition
As we've seen, AP test scoring is not exactly straightforward. To help clarify the process, we will walk through a scoring example using the most popular test, AP English Language and Composition.
Also known as the class in which you annotate every. Single. Thing.
Here are the basics of the AP English exam: it has 55 multiple-choice questions, worth 45% of your score, and three essays, worth 55% of your score. Each essay is graded between 1 and 9.
Before we get into the scoring example, remember that this guide is an estimation since score conversions can vary year to year based on test difficulty. While it's impossible to precisely predict an AP test score before you get your score, you can still get an idea of how the process works.
Step 1: Add Up Your Correct Answers to Get Your Raw Scores
There are 55 multiple-choice questions on the AP English exam. Let's say you get 40 right, get eight wrong, and leave seven blank. Your raw multiple-choice score would be an even 40 points.
Out of the three essays, let's say you earn the following scores from the graders: 4, 7, and 8. This gives you a total raw essay score of 19 (4+7+8).
Step 2: Convert Your Raw Scores to a Single Composite Score
Now, this is the tricky part in which we will convert each of those raw scores to a single composite score between 0 and 150.
The maximum converted essay score is 82.5, or 55% of 150. The maximum converted multiple-choice score is 67.5, or 45% of 150. To figure out your composite score, use this formula:
(Multiple Choice Raw Score x 1.23) + (Essay Raw Score x 3.05) = Composite Score
In this example, your multiple-choice composite score would be 49.2, and your essay composite score would be 57.95. Thus, your total composite score would be 107 (rounded down).
Step 3: Use the Chart to Estimate Your Scaled Score
The last step is easy. Use the chart below to estimate your final AP score (on a scale of 1-5):
Composite Score (0-100 or 0-150)Scaled Score (1-5)104-150592-103476-91350-7520-491
As you can see, your score of 107 would earn you a 5—but just barely!
Again, these numbers are estimates and will shift from year to year based on test difficulty. Since 107 is just over the mark of 104, it's possible that in some years it could net you a 4 instead of a 5.
What About Scoring Other AP Tests?
We’ve learned how to score an AP English Language and Composition exam. However, you can’t use this exact same process for every AP test. Most AP tests have slightly different section weights and question totals, so the scoring formulas are different.
For example, AP Calculus AB has fewer multiple choice questions (45), more free responses (six total), and weighs each section at 50%.
Each AP subject is a unique challenge ... and has its own scoring formula.
So how can you figure out how the AP tests you are taking are graded?
First, if you’re taking the AP class for the test you want to take, ask your teacher if he or she has a formula for converting practice test scores to scaled scores. Most AP teachers have a formula they use with their students for practice exams.
If you’re not taking the class or your teacher doesn’t have a formula, either find a prep book for your specific test or search online.
Remember that all formulas are estimates. So if you really want a 5, you shouldn’t aim for the lowest possible composite—you should aim for perfection, or very close. That’s the only way to guarantee you'll get a 5 on test day.
On the other hand, if you just want to make sure you pass, try to aim for a 4 so that even if you make more mistakes than you're hoping to, you’ll still get at least a 3!
Private ACT/SAT/Subject/AP Tutoring
ONE-TO-ONE ACT/SAT/AP PREP TUTORING - SESSIONS CAN OCCUR IN-HOME, AT OUR OFFICES, ONLINE VIA LESSONSPACE, AT A LOCAL LIBRARY OR COFFEE SHOP.
Vint Hill Educational Services offers subject-based tutoring in math, science, reading, writing, English, history, and foreign language. Our tutors take subject-specific tests to demonstrate their content knowledge before being hired. We can guarantee they know the content.
Science Tutoring:
Earth Science
Physical Science
Geosystems
Biology
AP Biology
Chemistry
AP Chemistry
Physics
AP Physics
Math Tutoring:
K-7 Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Algebra II
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Trigonometry
Statistics
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AP Calculus
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Reading Tutoring:
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English Tutoring:
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AP English
AP Literature and Composition
History Tutoring:
World History
AP World History
US History
AP US History
Government
AP Government
Vint Hill does not just assign any available tutor; we actually handpick the best tutor for your child. Before accepting the tutor, parents receive a tutor profile to review and approve. The tutor matching process consists of the following: subject area knowledge, tutor education, tutor personality, tutor background, student weaknesses, student schedule, and location preference (at our office, in-home, public library, local coffee shop, or virtual).
Parents receive access to our online Teachworks tutoring system and will be able to review tutor session notes, receive session email reminders, plus keep track of session hours used/hours remaining.
For more information, please contact us here.
5 Tips to Complete College Applications on Time
College admissions is a step-oriented process with numerous deadlines. Since prospective students are often juggling college applications alongside high school classes and activities, it's easy to fall behind or procrastinate.
But a well-thought-out plan, anchored by a few organizational tips, can keep students on track with college applications. Check out these expert recommendations for how students can keep delays from undermining their college ambitions:
Start planning early for college applications.
Create a detailed timeline for college applications.
Ask for letters of recommendation early.
Budget time for application essays.
Allow adequate time to prepare other admissions materials.
Start Planning Early for College Applications
College application deadlines vary, so students may be juggling different dates depending on their target schools. While regular decision deadlines arrive sometime in January, early action and early decision deadlines are traditionally in November. Identifying a specific admissions avenue is important to keep students on task, experts say.
"I think one of the best things particularly a senior in high school can do is to really clearly define what their choice set is," says Brian Troyer, dean of undergraduate admissions at Marquette University in Wisconsin. "I know a lot of college counselors, counselors within high schools, would encourage students to begin narrowing their list between their junior and their senior year. Hopefully, a student isn't having to navigate 20 different institutions' application timelines."
Though high school students often begin trimming their list of schools down and writing essays in the summer before their senior year, many application tasks also arise during their junior year, such as taking the ACT or SAT and visiting campuses, says Angela Warfield, principal consultant and founder at admissions consulting firm Compass Academics.
"If students use their Junior year to explore college selection, they will have a clear sense of schools (based on their scores, major plans, culture, location, cost, etc.)," she wrote in an email. "This will allow them to feel confident adding colleges to their Common App and beginning the process of creating an application timeline for each school on their list."
She adds that students who fail to plan accordingly "often find themselves in panic mode."
Create a Detailed Timeline for College Applications
Keeping track of the many requirements in the college admissions process can be simplified by creating a list of when those tasks come due, experts say. For example, Hafeez Lakhani – founder and president of Lakhani Coaching – says his admissions firm creates a customized spreadsheet for each client that breaks down application tasks and timelines.
Creating a spreadsheet with admissions tasks can help students clearly see what needs to be accomplished and work toward those goals. Setting up reminders on a digital calendar around certain dates can also help, experts say.
"Dates to consider include: application deadlines, testing date/score submissions deadlines, dates for recommenders to submit letters of support, and important scholarship deadlines," Warfield wrote in an email.
She notes that students should also include Oct. 1 on their calendars, which is the date the Free Application for Federal Student Aid – which is required for federal and often state and institutional financial aid – becomes available each year.
Ask for Letters of Recommendation Early
Asking for a letter of recommendation well in advance can help students avoid falling behind in the admissions process, experts say, noting this as a common pitfall for college applicants. High school counselors and teachers often juggle multiple requests for letters of recommendation and need time to write and personalize each one.
"I don't think it's fair to give recommenders less than four weeks to write their letters," Lakhani says.
Generally, the more time teachers or counselors have, the more personalized they can make such letters. And these letters are important in the admissions process, Troyer says, because colleges value the insights they share.
"I think it's important that students and families know we really do care about these, we like to read them and I think they have to recognize that counselors and teachers put a lot of thought or want to put a lot of thought into each individually tailored letter of recommendation," Troyer says.
Budget Time for Application Essays
Writing college essays is another area where students should allow themselves ample time.
Lakhani says students often procrastinate on admissions essays because they are "intimidated by the blank page."
But these narratives are highly valued by admissions committees where an essay may be the only writing sample a college sees for a student. While essays often aren't make or break, a strong essay can elevate a student's odds of admission. On the flip side, a sloppy or poorly written essay can make a college question an applicant's dedication.
Students should set aside time not only to write the essay but also to brainstorm the topic in advance, experts say.
"We never encourage students to write essays overnight," Lakhani says. He urges students to keep revising, tweaking and perfecting until they've fine-tuned their admissions essay.
"Think of our first drafts as gateways to get to better drafts," he advises.
Allow Adequate Time to Prepare Other Admissions Materials
A high school transcript and activities list are among the other admissions materials commonly needed for college applications. Troyer notes that the turnaround time for high school transcripts may vary, so students should check with their counselors on what to expect and allow a minimum of one week for these materials.
Developing an activities list can be another challenge. While this list is student-dependent, experts say they should think carefully about it and highlight activities that they feel reflect their interests and ambitions.
Students may also want to get a jump-start on the Common App, a popular application portal, as soon as it opens on Aug. 1.
But ultimately, students should remember to prioritize requests for items that depend on others, says Warfield.
"We usually advise that students prioritize the items outside of their control first: letters of recommendation, transcript requests, and (test) score reports. These can often be delayed through no fault of the applicant, so being on top of these requests first will ensure that there is plenty of time for the schools to receive a complete application."
Private ACT/SAT Tutoring
ONE-TO-ONE ACT/SAT PREP TUTORING - SESSIONS CAN OCCUR IN-HOME, AT OUR OFFICES, ONLINE VIA LESSONSPACE, AT A LOCAL LIBRARY OR COFFEE SHOP.
CURRENT SAT FORMAT AND STRUCTURE
Reading – 65 minutes (52 questions)
Writing and Language – 35 minutes (44 questions)
10 minute break
Math – No calculator – 25 minutes (20 questions)
Math – Calculator allowed – 55 minutes (38 questions)
On the SAT, students will have an average of 1 minute and 10 seconds to answer each question. This includes the multiple-choice questions and the math grid-in questions. This varies drastically from the ACT, which gives students an average of 49 seconds per question. The format is similar to the ACT; however, there are two SAT math sections and no dedicated science section like the ACT. There is no penalty for answering incorrectly. Therefore, students should answer every multiple-choice question. Students can only gain points on the SAT, so it’s important not to leave any questions unanswered. The SAT contains four answer choices, instead of five, which was seen on the old SAT (pre-2016).
Interested in a customized test prep program? We will review previous SAT practice test scores or official SAT scores to determine the area of focus. We can also email out a SAT practice test to take at home and provide an analysis for a customized SAT prep program.
Contact us to learn more about our SAT prep program or choose a package from below.
CURRENT ACT FORMAT AND STRUCTURE
English – 45 minutes (75 questions)
Math – 60 minutes (60 questions)
10 minute break
Reading – 35 minutes (40 questions)
Science – 35 minutes (40 questions)
5 minute break
Essay – 40 minutes (each prompt is different and three perspectives are provided for analysis)
On the ACT, students have an average of 49 seconds per question. The ACT is known as a fast paced test; however, the questions are presented in a straightforward and content driven manner. The test focuses on academic achievement, meaning, what students actually learn in high school. There is no deduction for answering incorrectly, so it’s best to answer every multiple-choice question. The ACT composite score is comprised of the four main sections (known as tests): English, math, reading, and science. Most colleges and universities post the ACT middle 50% composite score for their last freshmen class. This helps the student to set an ACT score goal with his or her tutor. A low score on one section can pull down the ACT composite score. However, with ACT prep tutoring, we have seen students go up 8, 9, 10, and 11 points in a single section. All sections of the test have four answer choices, except for the math section which has five answer choices. There is little vocabulary on the ACT, and in lieu of this there are more reading passages.
Interested in a customized test prep program? We will review previous ACT practice test scores or official ACT scores to determine the area of focus. We can also email out an ACT practice test to take at home and provide an analysis for a customized ACT prep program.
Contact us to learn more about our ACT prep program or choose a package from below.
2022-2023 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 will receive a test packet in the mail that includes the following:
ACT/SAT Answer Sheet
ACT/SAT Test Booklet
Test Instructions
Please sign up no later than Monday during the week of the mock test. Please make sure to include your mailing address during registration, so that we can mail you a testing packet.
ACT/SAT tests will be proctored virtually through LESSONSPACE. The day before each test, students will receive an emailed linked to join the virtually proctored test. The test instructions can be used should the student lose connection to the testing lobby. Please ensure that you have a working built-in mic (or a headset) and audio on your laptop/desktop.
ACT
Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below.
Mock ACT test dates:
SAT
Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below. :
Mock SAT test dates:
We also offer one-to-one private mock testing at our offices or virtually through Lessonspace. This consists of a full-length practice test for your child. Tests include: ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT. 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.
In-Office or In-Home Testing (One-To-One)
ESTABLISHES A BASELINE SCORE FOR THE STUDENT
TESTS INCLUDE
ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, & HSPT
$125 Standard Test (In-office)
$175 Special Accommodations (In-office)
FREE Parent Administration (In-home)
One-to-one private testing at our offices or in-home testing proctored by a parent. A perfect fit for students that need to get acclimated to the test format, structure, and timing. This can help to relieve nervousness and anxiety. Parents have the option of administering the test to their child for free. They can also choose to drop their student off at our offices and we will administer the test to the student. Parents will receive a diagnostic score report from our testing software. View sample reports: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, and HSPT. An individual test scores comparison chart is provided for the ACT and SAT.
Click on the links below to purchase private mock testing, or to learn more:
Private Mock ACT Administration
Private Mock SAT Administration
Private Mock SSAT Administration
Private Mock ISEE Administration
Private Mock HSPT Administration
Why It Is Harder to Get Into College in 2023?
Numerous degree-seeking students may find getting into college in 2023 harder than the previous years. Trends such as going test-optional, increasing diversity and emphasis on demonstrated interest can make the admissions process competitive, especially at institutions known for their high selectivity level.
SAT Going Digital in 2023
SAT Going Digital in 2023
Back in September of 2018, ACT made the change to computer-based tests for all students outside the US. It’s only time that the SAT will follow suit.
College Board has recently announced that the SAT (and also PSAT) will also become a computer-based test starting in 2023. The SAT will become digital first, beginning with the March 2023 test. PSAT will go computer based starting Fall of 2023.
The major advantage of taking the test online will be a quicker turnaround time for score calculation. Students will be able to receive their test scores in a few days instead of weeks. College Board also suggests that these tests will be unique for each student (but did not elaborate whether it will the order of questions that are different, or two students may receive different questions), thus eliminating the possibility of a “leak test”, which can affect all students taking the same exam.
The scores will still be out of 1600. However, the digital test will be shorter: two hours instead of three for the current paper test. Students will also be given more time per question.
The format will also be slightly changed. For the reading section, students will be given shorter passages with one question per passage. There will also be a wider selection of topics for these passages. For the math sections, there will only be one instead of two, and the students will be able to use a calculator for the entire section.
All tests before the March 2023 exam will still be paper-based. We will let you know when we find out more about the detailed changes.
Mock SAT Testing and Tutoring with
Vint Hill Educational Services
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.
2022-2023 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 WILL RECEIVE A TEST PACKET IN THE MAIL THAT INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING.
ACT/SAT ANSWER SHEET
ACT/SAT TEST BOOKLET
TEST INSTRUCTIONS
PLEASE SIGN UP NO LATER THAN MONDAY DURING THE WEEK OF THE MOCK TEST. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR MAILING ADDRESS DURING REGISTRATION, SO THAT WE CAN MAIL YOU A TESTING PACKET.
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 THE STUDENT LOSE CONNECTION TO THE TESTING LOBBY. PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE A WORKING BUILT-IN MIC (OR A HEADSET) AND AUDIO ON YOUR LAPTOP/DESKTOP.
ACT
Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below.
Mock ACT test dates:
SAT
Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below. :
Mock SAT test dates:
We also offer one-to-one private mock testing at our offices or virtually through Lessonspace. 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.
What is Dual Enrollment?
Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college classes while they are still enrolled in high school.
These classes count for both high school and college credit. High school students who complete dual enrollment classes generally take fewer classes in college and save money on total college costs.
Getting Ready for College—It’s Easier Than You Think
It’s never too early—or too late—to explore your options for college or career school. We’ll walk through some key steps in preparing for college and provide resources that can help you along the way. You’ll have to take the time to research and understand your options, but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help students make informed decisions and find out what they need to do!
7 Ways to Help Your Kid with College Application Essays
Top 49 Scholarships for College Students in November 2022
One of the biggest misconceptions about scholarships is that they are only for high school students. In fact, there are numerous lucrative scholarship opportunities that current college students can apply for. These scholarships for college students can help you pay for tuition, room, board, fees, and other expenses like books and laptops.
Your SAT Score Report Explained
The top portion of your score report contains a big black number. This is your SAT Score, also referred to as your total score. Next to your score are the numbers 400–1600, indicating that the range of possible scores on the SAT is 400–1600. To the right of your total score is your score percentile, telling you what percentage of students who took the test did better or worse than you. In small type below your score is your Score Range…
PSAT Test and SAT Overview
Overview
The PSAT/NMSQT is a standardized test that 11th graders (and some 10th graders) take in October. Like the SAT, it measures the knowledge and skills in reading, writing, and math students learn in the classroom—the same knowledge and skills your child needs to succeed in college and career.
Fast Facts
The primary date for the 2021 PSAT/NMSQT was Wednesday, October 13, while some students took the test on Saturday, October 16 or Tuesday, October 26. See more PSAT/NMSQT test dates.
Students sign up for the PSAT/NMSQT at their school—not online. See how homeschooled students can sign up and take the test at a local school.
By taking the PSAT/NMSQT as a junior, students may meet the requirements to enter the National Merit® Scholarship Program, an academic competition for recognition and scholarships. Additionally, the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, and PSAT 10 connect students to another $300 million in college scholarships for students across major demographics. Learn more about the scholarships.
The PSAT/NMSQT has three parts: the Reading Test, the Writing and Language Test, and the Math Test. See what's on the test.
PSAT/NMSQT scores are available online in December. Here's how your child can see their scores.
We never send PSAT/NMSQT scores to colleges.
If your child qualifies for a PSAT/NMSQT fee waiver, they take the test for free. After they take the PSAT/NMSQT, your child may also be eligible for other fee waiver benefits, including 2 free SATs, unlimited free SAT score sends to colleges, waived college application fees at participating colleges and more. Learn more about fee waivers.
Why the PSAT/NMSQT Is Important
When your child takes the PSAT/NMSQT, they open the door to more benefits than you might think.
It connects students to more than $300 million in scholarships, including the National Merit® Scholarship Program. If your child opts into our free Student Search Service®, scholarship providers will invite them to apply.
It's excellent practice for the SAT. Both tests measure the same knowledge and skills and ask the same types of questions, so PSAT/NMSQT takers will know what to expect on the SAT.
It's the first step to a free, personalized SAT study plan. Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy® uses your child's PSAT/NMSQT score to create a customized SAT study plan with sample questions that focus on areas where they need help.
It shows student progress on the road to college. The PSAT/NMSQT is part of the SAT Suite of Assessments, a series of tests beginning in eighth grade that shows your child and their teachers whether your child is on track for college.
It shows which Advanced Placement Program® (AP) courses your child is ready for. The PSAT/NMSQT Score Report indicates which college-level AP courses your child has the potential to succeed in.
Read More About It
For Students: Scholarships and Recognition
About the SAT Suite of Assessments
Parent's Guide to Official SAT Practice
For Students: Discover Your AP Potential
How to Sign Up
The only way your child can sign up for the PSAT/NMSQT is through their high school. Each school's signup process differs, so your child should talk to their school counselor to learn more.
Some students pay a small fee to take the PSAT/NMSQT, but many students have test-related fees covered in full or in part by their school. If your child qualifies for a PSAT/NMSQT fee waiver, they test for free. For more information, talk to your child's school counselor.
Read More About It
Learn About the PSAT/NMSQT and PSAT 10
PSAT/NMSQT Fee Waivers
How to Practice
The best way your child can prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT is to pay attention in their high school classes and study the course material. Students who do well in school are likely to do well on the PSAT/NMSQT.
Because the PSAT/NMSQT and the SAT focus on the same subject areas and ask the same types of questions, your child can use Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy to practice for the PSAT/NMSQT. It's a free, interactive study tool that provides a personalized practice plan that focuses on exactly what your child needs to stay on track for college.
Your child can download and print official PSAT/NMSQT practice tests.
PSAT/NMSQT Scores
PSAT/NMSQT scores range from 320 to 1520 and are on the same score scale as the SAT. This means that a score of 1100 on the PSAT/NMSQT is equivalent to a score of 1100 on the SAT. The only difference is that SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, because the difficulty level of the questions is higher than on the PSAT/NMSQT.
After your child takes the October PSAT/NMSQT, their scores will be available online in mid-December. If your child has a College Board online account, they'll get an email saying their scores are ready to view on the Student Score Reports website. If they don't, they can talk to their school counselor to get their scores.
Who Sees PSAT/NMSQT Scores
We don't send PSAT/NMSQT scores to colleges. We only send your child’s PSAT/NMSQT score to:
Their school (always), school district (often), and state (often)
National Merit Scholarship Corporation
Select scholarship and recognition programs (your child may opt out of)
If you want to log in yourself to see your child's score report, use the email and password your child used when they set up their College Board online account.
Once your child gets their score report, they should sit down with you and go over it. That way, you both know what to focus on to be ready for college. Score reports also indicate suitable AP or grade-level courses to take in the future.
Read More About It
For Students: Understanding Scores
For Students: Who Sees Your Scores
Student Search Service
PSAT and SAT Tutoring
ONE-TO-ONE SAT PREP TUTORING - SESSIONS CAN OCCUR IN-HOME, AT OUR OFFICES, ONLINE VIA LESSONSPACE, AT A LOCAL LIBRARY OR COFFEE SHOP.
“We were happy because this program focuses on the individual. After our daughter did the mock practice tests, it was discovered she only needed SAT math tutoring. The in person 1 on 1 prep got her up 210 SAT math points!
— Leslie N. (Washington, DC)
VIEW OUR ACT VERSUS NEW SAT COMPARISON CHART
VIEW OUR ACT SCORES VERSUS NEW SAT SCORES CONCORDANCE CHART
SAT FORMAT AND STRUCTURE (FOR JUNE 2021 TEST AND BEYOND)
Reading – 65 minutes (52 questions)
Writing and Language – 35 minutes (44 questions)
10 minute break
Math – No calculator – 25 minutes (20 questions)
Math – Calculator allowed – 55 minutes (38 questions)
On the SAT, students will have an average of 1 minute and 10 seconds to answer each question. This includes the multiple-choice questions and the math grid-in questions. This varies drastically from the ACT, which gives students an average of 49 seconds per question. The format is similar to the ACT; however, there are two SAT math sections and no dedicated science section like the ACT. There is no penalty for answering incorrectly. Therefore, students should answer every multiple-choice question. Students can only gain points on the SAT, so it’s important not to leave any questions unanswered. The SAT contains four answer choices, instead of five, which was seen on the old SAT. A new SAT report will encompass a math section with a scale score of 200-800 and a reading/writing section with a scale score of 200-800. The overall combined scale score will be 400-1600.
SAT Reading
The new SAT will focus more on academic achievement. The College Board is eliminating sentence completions from the new SAT and increasing the presence of tier 2 vocabulary. All of the SAT reading passages will be considered “long” as the College Board got rid of the shorter passages. Students will need to be skilled at citing evidence, extracting information, analyzing structure, and purpose. The new SAT reading section will include a pair of related passages and questions will ask students to draw connections.
SAT Math
The new SAT math section will focus heavily on algebra. The College Board added a sub-score to the new SAT report titled “Heart of Algebra.” Geometry will be de-emphasized, while algebra will be the main focus. There will be more real-world math problems, for example, how to leave a calculated tip at a restaurant. The new SAT will include trigonometry for the first time. Both the ACT and SAT will now contain trigonometry. Formulas are provided on the SAT, unlike the ACT, and there will be the introduction of a no calculator math section.
SAT Writing and Language
The SAT writing and language section will test students editing and revising skills. They will need to correct errors in sentence structure, usage, and punctuation. There will be at least one informational graphic on the SAT reading and writing section. This section will be similar to the ACT English section.
We offer SAT prep throughout the Washington DC area, Northern VA area, Richmond VA area, Fredericksburg VA area, Charlottesville VA area, Raleigh NC area, and Charlotte NC area. We will have a SAT tutor come to your home for one-to-one instruction. We will review previous SAT practice test scores or official SAT scores to determine the area of focus. We can also email out a SAT practice test to take at home and provide an analysis for a customized SAT prep program.
Contact us to learn more about our SAT prep program or choose a package from below.
12-Hour SAT Prep Package $1,500.00
18-Hour SAT Prep Package $2,070.00
24-Hour SAT Prep Package $2,520.00
36-Hour SAT Prep Package $3,420.00
How to Start Planning for College in 10th Grade
How to Start Planning for College in 10th Grade
As you settle into your sophomore year, think about taking on new challenges to prep for college—this is a great time to do it.
Review the college checklist for ninth grade and use it as part of your college planning process:
Meet with your high school counselor
Schedule an appointment with your school counselor to make sure your course schedule is challenging enough to prepare you for college
Find out about the College-Level Examination Program (CLEP)—it’s accepted by 2,900 colleges and universities and can help you get college credit, save money, and save time
Explore Advanced Placement Courses
Learn about the AP Program and how it can lead to college credit, advanced placement, or both at most colleges in the U.S.
Consider which of the 38 AP courses you want to take next school year
If you’re already enrolled in a course, be sure to register for AP Exams. Taking AP Exams helps you show colleges you’re committed and motivated to succeed. Check with your AP teacher or coordinator about your school’s registration deadline.
Take the PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10
Take the PSAT/NMSQT or the PSAT 10 and get feedback through your scores on your college readiness and a free, personalized SAT practice plan to help you get ready for the SAT and for college
Learn 4 ways to make the most of your PSAT 8/9 and PSAT 10 scores
If you’re thinking of attending a U.S. military academy
Request a precandidate questionnaire from an academy you’re interested in
Along with your family, research how to get financial aid
Find out how financial aid can help you afford college, where it comes from, and how you apply for it
College can cost less than you think—learn the basics of college costs
Inside the classroom
Develop time-management skills and get more out of your time in high school
Create a routine for finishing your homework more efficiently and effectively
Attend college fairs or a campus tour
Attend at least one college fair and talk to representatives from colleges you may be interested in
If possible, visit a college nearby to see what campus life is like
How to Write a College Essay
Not only is the college essay a place to showcase writing skills, it's one of the only parts of a college application where a student's voice can shine through.
Unlike test scores and transcripts, the college admissions essay offers students a chance to showcase their personality.
"The essays are important in part because this is a student's chance to really speak directly to the admissions office," says Adam Sapp, assistant vice president and director of admissions at Pomona College in California.
Prospective college students want their essay, sometimes called a personal statement, to make a good impression and boost their chances of being accepted, but they have only several hundred words to make that happen.
This can feel like a lot of pressure.
"I think this is the part of the application process that students are sometimes most challenged by," says Niki Barron, associate dean of admission at Hamilton College in New York, "because they're looking at a blank piece of paper and they don't know where to get started."
That pressure may be amplified as many colleges have gone test-optional in the past year, meaning that ACT and SAT scores will be considered if submitted but are not required. Other schools have gone test-blind and don't consider such scores at all. In the absence of test scores, some admissions experts have suggested that more attention will be paid to other parts of an application, such as the essay.
But just as each applicant is unique, so are college admissions policies and priorities.
"Being test optional hasn't changed how we use essays in our selection process, and I wouldn't say that the essay serves as a substitute for standardized test scores," Barron wrote in an email. "A student's academic preparation for our classroom experience is always front and center in our application review process."
Essay writing tips offered by experts emphasize the importance of being concise, coherent, congenial, honest and accurate. An applicant should also flex some intellectual muscle and include vivid details or anecdotes.
From brainstorming essay topics to editing the final draft, here's what students need to know about crafting a strong college essay.
Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a College Application Essay
Getting Started on the College Essay
A good time for students to begin working on their essays is the summer before senior year, experts say, when homework and extracurricular activities aren't taking up time and mental energy.
Starting early will also give students plenty of time to work through multiple drafts of an essay before college application deadlines, which can be as early as November for students applying for early decision or early action.
Students can go online to review essay requirements for the colleges they want to apply to, such as word limits and essay topics. Many students may start with the Common App, an application platform accepted by more than 900 schools.
In addition to the main essay, some colleges ask applicants to submit one or more additional writing samples. Students are often asked to explain why they are interested in a particular school or academic field in these supplemental essays, which tend to be shorter than the main essay.
Students will want to budget more time for the writing process if the schools they're applying to ask for supplemental essays.
"Most selective colleges will ask for more than one piece of writing. Don't spend all your time working on one long essay and then forget to devote energy to other parts of the application," Sapp says, noting there may be additional questions on an application requiring thoughtfully written responses.
How Long Should a College Essay Be?
Though the Common App – which students can submit to multiple colleges – notes that "there are no strict word limits" for its main essay, it suggests a cap of about 650 words.
"While we won't as a rule stop reading after 650 words, we cannot promise that an overly wordy essay will hold our attention for as long as you'd hoped it would," the Common App website states.
The word count is much shorter for institution-specific supplemental essays, which are typically around 250 words.
How to Pick a College Essay Topic
The first and sometimes most daunting step in the essay writing process is figuring out what to write about.
There are usually several essay prompts to choose from on a college application. They tend to be broad, open-ended questions, giving students the freedom to write about a wide array of topics, Barron says.
The essay isn't a complete autobiography, notes Mimi Doe, co-founder of Top Tier Admissions, a Massachusetts-based advising company. "It's overwhelming to think of putting your whole life in one essay," she says.
Rather, experts say students should narrow their focus and write about a specific experience, hobby or quirk that reveals something personal, like how they think, what they value or what their strengths are. Students can also write about something that illustrates an aspect of their background. Even an essay on a common topic can be compelling if done right.
Students don't have to discuss a major achievement in their essay, a common misconception. Admissions officers who spoke with U.S. News cited memorable essays that focused on more ordinary topics, including fly-fishing, a student's commute to and from school and a family's dining room table.
What's most important, experts say, is that a college essay is thoughtful and tells a story that offers insight into who a student is as a person.
So, no matter what topic students choose, they'll ultimately be writing about themselves, says Ethan Sawyer, founder of the College Essay Guy website, which offers free and paid essay-writing resources. "What we think of as the topic is just the frame or the lens that we're using to get into other parts of you."
If students are having trouble brainstorming potential topics, they can ask friends or family members for help, says Stephanie Klein Wassink, founder of Winning Applications and AdmissionsCheckup, Connecticut-based college admissions advising companies. Wassink says students can ask peers or family members questions such as, "What do you think differentiates me?" Or, "What are my quirks?"
The essay should tell college admissions officers something they don't already know, experts say. Students should ensure they're writing about something that isn't mentioned elsewhere in their application, perhaps in the activities section, or expand greatly on the topic if it is noted elsewhere.
Writing the College Essay
Some experts encourage students to outline their essay before jumping into the actual writing.
But there isn't one correct way of doing things, says Sara Newhouse, senior consultant at Enrollment Research Associates and former vice president for admission and financial planning at Birmingham-Southern College in Alabama.
"Your writing process is your own," she says. Newhouse encourages students to use whatever process worked for them in the past when they completed writing assignments for English and other high school classes.
The first draft of an essay doesn't need to be perfect. "Just do a brain dump," Doe says. "Don't edit yourself, just lay it all out on the page."
If students are having a hard time getting started, they should focus on their opening sentence, Doe suggests. She says an essay's opening sentence, or hook, should grab the reader's attention.
Doe offered an example of a strong hook from the essay of a student she worked with:
"I first got into politics the day the cafeteria outlawed creamed corn."
"I want to know about this kid," she says. "I’m interested."
But Sawyer cautions that students shouldn't get so caught up in writing the perfect hook that they neglect the rest of their essay. He also says he's read some essays that were excellent overall, even though they had what he would consider mundane hooks.
Editing and Submitting the College Essay
While admissions officers try to learn about students via the essay, they are also gauging writing skills, so students want to make sure they submit top-notch work.
"The best writing is rewriting," Sapp says. "You should never be giving me your first draft."
When reviewing a first essay draft, students should make sure their writing is showing, not telling, Doe says. This means students should show their readers examples that prove they embody certain traits or beliefs, as opposed to just stating that they do.
After editing their essay, students should seek outside editing help, experts recommend. While there are individuals and companies that offer paid essay help – from editing services to essay-writing boot camps – students and families may not be able to afford the associated fees.
However, there may be options to defray the costs. Sawyer, for example, says he offers scholarships to students from low-income families that cover the cost of one-on-one essay consultations.
The availability of and level of feedback from free essay advising services vary. Some college prep companies offer brief consultations at no charge. Free essay workshops may also be available through local high schools, public libraries or community organizations. Khan Academy, a free online education platform, also offers a series of videos and other content to guide students through the essay writing process.
Colleges themselves may also have resources, Barron notes, pointing to pages on Hamilton's website that offer writing tips as well as examples of successful admissions essays. Likewise, Hamilton also holds virtual panel discussions on writing admissions essays.
Students have other options when it comes to essay help. They can ask peers, teachers, school counselors and family members for help polishing an essay.
Newhouse says it works well to have other people proofread an essay in two stages. The first stage focuses on content. Readers should look for information gaps in the essay – anything they are confused about. Once the content is nailed down, the second proofing stage focuses on style, including grammar, punctuation and spelling.
But proofreaders should not change the tone of the essay. "Don't let anyone edit out your voice," Doe cautions.
And while proofreading is fair game, having someone else rewrite your essay is not.
When an essay is ready to go, students will generally submit it online along with the rest of their application. On the Common App, for example, students copy and paste their essay into a text box.
Sapp says even though students often stress about the essay in particular, it's not the only thing college admissions officers look at. "The essay is the window, but the application is the house," he says. "So let's not forget that an application is built of many pieces."
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.
2022-2023 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.
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. PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE A WORKING BUILT-IN MIC (OR A HEADSET) AND AUDIO ON YOUR LAPTOP/DESKTOP.
ACT
Register for a mock ACT by clicking on a specific test date below.
Mock ACT test dates:
SAT
Register for a mock SAT by clicking on a specific test date below. :
Mock SAT test dates:
We also offer one-to-one private mock testing at our offices or virtually through Lessonspace. 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 2022-2023 school year.
In-Office, Virtual, or In-Home Testing (One-To-One)
ESTABLISHES A BASELINE SCORE FOR THE STUDENT
TESTS INCLUDE
ACT, SAT, PSAT, SSAT, ISEE, HSPT and SAT Subject Tests
$125 Standard Test (In-office)
$175 Special Accommodations (In-office)
FREE Parent Administration (In-home)
One-to-one private testing at our offices, private virtual testing through Lessonspace, or in-home testing proctored by a parent. A perfect fit for students that need to get acclimated to the test format, structure, and timing. This can help to relieve nervousness and anxiety. Parents have the option of administering the test to their child for free. They can also choose to drop their student off at our offices and we will administer the test to the student. For virtual private proctoring, we will secure a date and time for one of our proctors to meet the student online. Parents will receive a diagnostic score report from our testing software. View sample reports: ACT, SAT, SSAT, ISEE, and HSPT. An individual test scores comparison chart is provided for the ACT and SAT.
Summer 2022 - VHES Get Ahead Program
Book a summer package and be prepared for the start of next school year. Receive up to 4 FREE one-to-one instructional hours (expires 7/31/22).
5 Ways to Tour Colleges at Home
If you're unable to tour colleges physically, there are different ways to get to know a college through its online resources and social media presences. Many schools are offering virtual tours, chats with admissions officers and current students, and other online options to help you get familiar with their school.