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How to Pick the Best Test Prep Tutor
When it comes to the SAT or ACT, practice matters. One of the best ways to maximize your test taking potential is with a test prep tutor.
Finding a test prep tutor for the SAT or ACT is an important decision. But how do you go about finding the best test prep tutor for you? Here are some tips and best-practices to consider when you are looking for a test prep tutor:
Related: PSAT to SAT score conversion
Set your budget
One of the first questions you will need to answer is regarding your budget. We recommend that you talk to your parents to see what is doable for your family. SAT and ACT tutor fees can range wildly from free to $10-20 per hour to “comprehensive” packages that cost thousands of dollars. Research a variety of tutoring companies, including free ones like UPchieve, to find your best financial match.
Online or in-person?
The great thing about the internet is that high-quality test prep tutor can be accessed anytime and anywhere. In-person vs. online tutoring is a personal decision and depends on your style. Are you comfortable working with someone over Skype or video chat? Or do you prefer to communicate with someone “live” and in-person?
Don’t miss: What to look for in a college consultant
Ask for an intro consultation
Many tutors will offer a free consultation to prospective clients. These consultations can be great for a few reasons. First, the consultation session will allow you to see how you “gel” with the tutor, as well as their tutoring philosophy. This also gives you the opportunity to ask questions about how their process works.
Don’t miss: Advice for low test takers
Be wary of anyone who makes any promises
A good coach or tutor knows their limitations. Notably, they are unable to specifically “create” outcomes for their client. If a tutor promises a specific score increase, you should be very skeptical. Goal-setting is certainly an important part of the test prep process, but there are no guarantees.
Ask a friend!
Do you have any friends, family members, or acquaintances who have gone through the test prep or admissions process? If so, ask them for recommendations. They will be able to give you the inside scoop on potential tutors and their experiences. Similarly, your school guidance counselor may have some suggestions.
Related: What is a high SAT score?
Free resources
There are also some awesome SAT and ACT resources that are totally free! These can be a great supplement to having a tutor (particularly because both of the free resources include official ACT and SAT practice tests). You can also check out our guides to the SAT reading section and the SAT math section.
If you’re a student who does not enjoy taking tests, you can definitely take some comfort in the fact that you’re not alone. Luckily, we can help you out. Check out our guide to reducing test taking anxiety, as well as our guide to college admissions for low test takers.
Also read: ACT vs SAT: How to decide which test to take
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