K-12     Education Guide    

5 tips to ace college entry exams



Prepping for ACT and SAT exams is crucial

Prepping for ACT and SAT exams is crucial


Because most colleges and universities require applicants to submit ACT or SAT results as part of admissions consideration, prepping for the test itself can be a critical component of that process.

While it can oftentimes be hard to deal with the anxiety that comes with a rigorous test meant to show your mastery of certain subjects and concepts, such as reading and mathematics, consider these test prep tips to help boost your score while simultaneously lowering stress.

Register early
To allow yourself as much flexibility as possible, taking college entrance exams during your junior year of high school is encouraged. If you don’t get an ideal score, you can refine your approach and retake the exam with a better idea of what to expect.

Take a practice test
Any test prep plan should start with a practice SAT or ACT exam. Taking practice tests under realistic conditions can help you gain a better understanding of the content of the test, improve your time management and help combat test anxiety. You can use your practice test as a baseline to set goals and focus the rest of your prep on areas you would like to improve before the real thing.

READ MORE: Essay Question Tests

Sign up for a prep course

If you find studying on your own difficult or not as successful as you’d hoped, a prep course can put you through the paces and hold you accountable. Complete with homework and in-class practice, prep classes can range from small groups to larger classes taught by test experts. Some school districts even offer after-school programs dedicated to ACT or SAT prep.

Gather supplies
To help reduce test day stress, gather everything you’ll need the night before. Check the list of banned items – cellphones aren’t permitted – to make sure you don’t accidentally bring something you’re not allowed to have. Ensure your bag is packed with your admission ticket, valid photo identification, several sharpened pencils with erasers, an approved calculator (with fresh batteries) and a watch, if allowed.

Get a good night’s sleep and eat breakfast
While it can be tempting to stay up late the night before the test to cram, you’re likely to perform better with a full night’s sleep. Sleep is important for retention, and eating a balanced breakfast before heading out the door can aid in your ability to focus. To make your morning easier, prep breakfast before bed to keep an early morning from starting even earlier.

Remember, the college admissions process involves more than just test scores. Visit eLivingtoday.com for more education tips and information.

(eLivingtoday.com)
Photo courtesy of Getty Images



Other articles by HVP News Reporters


  • 5 garage safety tips

    Make sure everything is secure and functioning properly

    When you throw open the windows, you’ll likely be spending more time with the garage door open, too. Make access to your outdoor equipment safer with these tips to get your garage ready for the warmer months. read more »
  • 7 vegetables to grow easily in your home garden

    All you need is a little time and effort

    Growing fresh, healthy vegetables at home may not be as hard as it sounds. Novice gardeners just need good dirt, easy plants to grow, lots of sunshine and the right amount of water. read more »
  • 7 budget-friendly gardening hacks

    Tricks to help you create a cost-effective garden

    Gardening can be a simple way to beautify your yard, relieve stress and save money on your grocery bill, but like any hobby, you can get carried away buying necessary equipment. read more »
  • 2023 I Love My Parks Day Events

    Volunteer with your family to clean up a local state park

    I Love My Park Day is an annual event that brings together thousands of volunteers to enhance and celebrate New York's amazing parkland. read more »
  • Spinach and artichoke stuffed mushroom caps

    Simple, easy and delicious

    Bringing an element of elegance to your holiday celebration is easy when you start with party-pleasing ingredients, and great tasting food often starts with dairy. read more »
  • Parmesan crusted chicken

    Super easy to make

    Not only is this Parmesan Crusted Chicken dish delicious, it is super simple to make. read more »
  • 5 resilient flooring trends for spring remodeling season

    Spruce up your home this spring

    If the idea of a spring remodel brings equal parts intrigue and dread, starting with your flooring can make the process more appealing. For example, sustainable, resilient flooring comes in a variety of options to both your budget and personal style. read more »
  • Tips on navigating moving and storage scams

    New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection Releases Guide

    the New York Department of State’s Division of Consumer Protection announced the release of a comprehensive guide that provides consumers with important tips to avoid moving and storage company scams. read more »
  • Top tips to win a college scholarship

    Creative ideas to help your student out

    More than half of American families used scholarships to pay for college last year. From merit-based to artistic-focused, there are a variety of awards available. read more »
  • Understanding maternal health and hypertension

    7 tips for a heart-healthy pregnancy

    A common misconception is high blood pressure (HBP), or hypertension, rarely affects women. However, nearly half of all adults with HBP are women. read more »