Test Preparation
PTSA’s Test Prep Program can help you achieve your highest SAT or ACT score.
PTSA’s Test Prep Program can help you achieve your highest SAT or ACT score.
Register for mock tests and test prep classes
Students from other schools are welcome!
SAT Prep classes and mocks offered in-person on the West Po campus. Laptop required.
ACT prep classes offered online only. ACT mocks offered in-person on campus.
SAT & ACT Mock Tests: $23.00
Offered in-person on the West Po campus. Laptop required for SAT mocks.
SAT Group Classes: $475.00
Target prep for the 10/5/24, 3/8/25, or 6/7/25 official SAT test dates. In-person, laptop required.
- Comprehensive treatment of major strategies
- Access to Study Guides and Session Notes
- 3 scheduled Mock Test opportunities
- 15 hours of group tutoring instruction
- Detailed Results analysis
ACT Classes
Contact Marilyn Aboff, @email for options.
Applerouth's Self-Paced Online Course: $125.00
Available for purchase ($125.00) on the PTSA’s MemberHubStore.
This comprehensive online course gives you everything you need to raise your SAT or ACT score, stay motivated, and have fun doing it – all from the comfort of home and on your own schedule. One-year license, unlimited access.
- Video lessons for every section of the SAT or ACT
- Thousands of practice problems & solutions
- 3 or 4 full practice tests to track your score
- Customized lesson plan based on your results
- Includes Applerouth's 900+ page study guide
- More details about content for SAT course available here.
- More about the ACT course here.
Scholarships
WPHS student need-based scholarships for mocks and classes are available through the College and Career Center Specialist, Karen B, Young, @email. Over summer only, contact Marilyn Aboff, [email protected].
Big News in the Testing World
Automatic Scholarships Based on SAT/ACT Scores – 2024
ACT Announces Shorter Test with Optional Science Section – an Unqualified Win for Students
What We’ve Learned about Test-Optional and Test-Required Admissions by Jed Applerouth, PhD
Cornell Is Next in Line to Reinstate Testing Requirements by Jed Applerouth, PhD
Other News and Articles by Applerouth Experts
Are Official Tests Still Relevant?
Test optional does not mean test blind! Check the websites of your favored colleges to see their admissions policy and check the scholarship pages to see if test scores are used for admissions, to select scholarship recipients, or for class placement. A good test score can only improve your application and you choose whether or not to include your score!
Other Resources
- WPHS Student Services – Contact your school counselor to discuss options
- WPHS College and Career Center Specialist, Karen B, Young, [email protected]
- SAT/ACT Accommodations Specialist, Candace Brown, [email protected]
- Applerouth Tutoring – Experienced tutors are available for questions at 202-558-5644
- ACT/SAT Websites: ACT.org for ACT and collegeboard.org for SAT
- PTSA Test Prep Chair – Marilyn Aboff, [email protected]
General Test Prep Information & Tips
Do you know your test preference?
Most students will show a strong preference for either the SAT or ACT format. This preference usually results in students naturally testing the SAT equivalent of 100 points higher on their preferred test. Sponsored by PTSA, mock tests are offered through Applerouth to help students determine their preferred format and establish baseline test scores – not to mention the benefits of practice. Sophomores can make their junior year less hectic by determining test preference late in their sophomore year! Juniors, get a little extra practice!
Set your Testing Date
Juniors who participate in extracurricular activities are strongly encouraged to look ahead at their activities schedule to determine the dates they are available to take the official SAT or ACT. Most students take the official tests more than once. Plan ahead for up to 3 test dates and register early for most convenient testing locations.
Decide Your Test Prep Strategy
Once the testing date is set, determine your strategy for test prep. Self-directed free resources are available on Blackboard and the official testing sites. For those students who work better in a more structured classroom environment, the PTSA sponsors an on-campus SAT test prep program (through Applerouth Tutoring).
Why Take a Mock SAT or ACT?
Did you know that 54% of students show a natural increase the second time they take a real test? Use the mock to practice test time management skills – see if you have the ability to apply the content and strategies learned while studying when in an official test environment. Test your mental endurance. Earn confidence for the “real thing.”
Increase Your College Choices
Now is the time to find out where you are missing the most points on your SAT or ACT. Take a mock and use the individualized score report to focus your limited study time. Report includes suggested “homework” in popular prep books.