SAT and ACT Test Prep in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

Preparing for a test can be intimidating and frustrating for students at any age or educational level. Many people remember the SAT and ACT as tests where studying wouldn’t be helpful, but the amount of preparation material that is currently available demonstrates why that isn’t the case. Most high school students receive some form of test preparation. When students are ranked based on a percentile score as compared to their peers, not having an excellent score can put them at a disadvantage.

Which to Choose? SAT vs. ACT:

The SAT:

  • There are 4 sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math without a calculator, and Math with a calculator.
  • Both math sections together equal 800 points, and the combined reading/writing sections equal 800 points, totaling 1600 points.
  • Science and History questions are integrated in these sections.
  • Vocabulary is in context in the reading and writing sections.
  • There is no penalty for unanswered questions.
  • The essay section is optional.
  • All sections, including math, include lengthy paragraphs.
  • Math formulas are provided.
  • Scores can be super-scored, using the highest score from each section, taken from multiple tests.

The ACT:

  • There are four sections: Reading, Writing, Science, and Math. A calculator is permitted for the math section.
  • Requires you to know math formulas.
  • Has no penalty for incorrect answers.
  • Tests vocabulary only through reading comprehension.
  • Each section is scored 1-36. The total score is an average of the four scores. Some collegessuper-score, using the highest score from each section, from multiple tests.
  • The essay writing section is optional.

These are the major differences between the SAT and ACT. However, the only way to tell which is right for you is to try both. You can do so in an official test environment or by doing a sample test online or with a study guide. We recommend using The Official SAT Study Guide (“the only guide by the SAT test Maker”) and The Official ACT Prep Guide (“from the makers of the ACT test”).

The Right Time to Prepare

Much of the stress that comes from taking the ACT or SAT comes from feeling unprepared, which is why beginning preparation as early as possible can help to alleviate some tension. Students should prepare for either exam for at least six to eight weeks and should take two to three tests to get the best results. Many of our students begin preparing twelve weeks in advance or earlier.

Is there a Guarantee?

Tutoring For Success always guarantees a qualified tutor. However, because of the unique learning styles, educational levels, studying schedules, and life circumstances of each student, we can’t guarantee specific results and score improvements. We strive to give students the right tools, mindset, and focus to push their score potential as far as it can go, without adding any more stress to their lives than they’re already facing. We’ve seen many students who have experienced remarkable success in both the ACT and SAT.

We Serve the Following Washington, D.C. Metro Areas:

Washington, DC

Virginia

  • Northern Virginia
  • Alexandria
  • Arlington
  • Fairfax County, including Chantilly, Fairfax, Falls Church, Herndon, McLean, Oakton, Burke, Reston, Springfield, Vienna, Great Falls, and Lorton
  • Loudon County, which includes Ashburn, Leesburg, and Sterling
  • Prince William County, including Manassas, Woodbridge, and Gainesville

Maryland

  • Suburban Maryland
  • Montgomery County, which includes Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Potomac, Rockville, Silver Spring, Olney, Gaithersburg, North Potomac, and Germantown.

To get accepted into a college of choice, it is imperative for students to strive to attain the highest scores possible. One-to-one assistance is the best way to target each student’s specific areas that need improvement. Contact us for more information on SAT and ACT Test Prep.