We recommend students aim to narrow their final lists as much as possible to create an optimal blend of around 10 – 12 reach, likely, and target schools. There is often little advantage or need for applying to additional schools beyond this threshold if the final list is well-cultivated to fit the needs and performance levels of the student. Too many schools may lead to increased stress as well as distraction.
Novella Prep
College Planning | Test Prep | Academic Tutoring | Rye New York | Stamford Connecticut
Other Frequently Asked Questions
The best way to start college planning is right after receiving your PSAT score, particularly for sophomores, and of course for juniors. The reason? The PSAT provides an early indication of your future SAT or ACT score, and coupled with GPA and potentially AP scores, provides a powerful tool for admission officers to utilize for admissions decisions, and therefore, for you as well! But, planning in the 10th grade means becoming aware of longer-term goals and mindsets, approached at a pace that is comfortable for the student as a means toward both personal growth and planning practicality. Plus, you will need to know what requirements you will need to fulfill while there is still time to meet those needs! For tips on the visits, watch this video.
If study skills are like cardio training, and tutoring is like the skill to play a sport, we know that the foundation is endurance and the fundamentals. Same with school. Start with an evaluation of your study habits, routines, and results from your current level of effort, and then consider tutoring only if still necessary. Otherwise, tutoring without fundamentals is a costly band-aid that creates dependency. See this video to learn more.
As of January 2021, The College Board announced they will no longer be offering SAT Subject Tests to U.S. students in an effort to streamline the application process for colleges and prospective students alike. Instead, your student should focus their efforts on the Reading and Writing & Language components of the SAT, and look to utilize subject-specific AP courses and exams to demonstrate mastery in a discipline’s core competencies. For more guidance on the advantages of AP tests, here is a helpful video on this topic.
Many students are applying to ten colleges, which means starting with a list of 20 makes sense. Consider some schools, initially, that take into account family and friends’ recommendations, but ultimately, use your results from Naviance, PSAT score, GPA, and major to refine your list. Make sure it is balanced in terms of how selective each choice is. For more information, here is a helpful video.
While there is no strategic benefit to taking the SAT or ACT in terms of admission, there are some differences to the format and item types. Novella Tip: Take a free practice SAT and ACT to see what feels like a better fit for you.