Test Prep Tips: CATES Blog

How do I know which SAT II to take? When should I take them?

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What can I do for the SATs as a sophomore? Is it too early to start preparing?

In many schools both in New York and around the country the SAT process begins in the spring of students’ sophomore year. These schools have begun administering the first of two PSATs at this time to give students an early taste of the SAT. While most students won’t take the actual SAT Exam the first time for about a year, many institutions are feeling like earlier is better to get students acclimated to the exam

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How much do colleges care about my extracurricular activities?  Is it really important to have them?

Extracurricular activities are a vital part of any college application.  They are not merely window dressing or gold star bonuses, but an essential component of what a student can present to a college admissions officer.  If you are a sophomore or junior without extracurriculars, today is the day to involve yourself in clubs, teams, service organizations, arts groups, or whatever interests you outside of class.

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What should I know about the SAT as a parent? How can I help my child?

The SAT process is undoubtedly a daunting one. Studying can be arduous, the anxiety surrounding the testdepleting, and the test itself can be long and frustrating. We commonly associate these stresses and strains with the students taking the SAT but rarely associate them with the parents of those students.

Parents often find everything associated with the SAT to be a nightmare.  All you want is the best for your son or daughter but have no real blueprint of how to help. The simple answer is that the best way to “parent” the SAT totally depends on what kind of student your child is.  The SAT rewards study, repeated mock-tests, and tutoring in differing combinations for every student.

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What should I do if I was deferred from Early Decision? Is there anything I can do?

It’s the moment you’ve worked so hard for. You know the mail is coming, and with it news of your college admission status at your number one choice.  Sifting through the mail you find that dreaded little envelope informing you that you’ve been deferred.

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