Preparing for college entrance exams

Parents can make sure students receive the proper training and encouragement to build confidence and excel on college entrance exams and other state-mandated tests.

It's that time of year again, when high school students get ready to take important college entrance exams such as the PSAT SAT and ACT. Just like any other test, students can improve SAT scores if they spend enough time studying and preparing. However, along with regular schoolwork and studying for finals, it can be difficult to find the extra time and motivation to study for these exams. That is why many parents encourage their teens to take test preparation courses.

According to a recent survey by the National Association for College Admission Counseling, test preparation can add about 30 points on the SAT and one point on the ACT. While this may seem like an insignificant increase, the survey also revealed that 20 to 40 percent of colleges agreed that a 20-point math increase or a 10-point reading increase would significantly improve a student's chance of admission.

With the proper guidance, any child can raise SAT scores. Many private tutoring companies specialize in test preparation courses for the SATs and ACTs as well as other standardized tests like the SAT II, AP exams, ISEE, SLEP, SSAT, and PSAT. These companies help countless students do better on these tests by offering an individualized approach that focuses on each student's specific testing needs. While one student may require a personal math tutor, another may need help with reading and writing.

When it comes to state standardized exams, students may be required to meet the state standards in order to move onto the next grade. In these cases, it is all the more important to ensure your child has a clear understanding of the required basic skills and passes successfully. The right child education franchise will offer professional services and help your child succeed in his or her academic career. While it is very common for students to experience anxieties of test taking, you can make sure your child receives the proper training and encouragement to build confidence and excel on these exams.

Sarah Michaels is a writer who resides in Cleveland, Ohio. Her work has appeared in numerous print and online publications.