Amazing Education’s SAT Preparation Courses
The Importance of the SAT
The SAT remains a critical component of college admissions, particularly for Ivy League and other top-tier universities, as it provides a standardized measure to evaluate applicants’ academic readiness. While many schools have adopted test-optional policies, a strong SAT score:
Enhances your application and demonstrates academic ability.
Can strengthen your candidacy for scholarships and merit-based aid.
Is a benchmark that supports GPA and extracurricular achievements in the application process.
In recent years, Ivy League and other top-tier universities have adjusted their standardized testing policies, particularly concerning the SAT and ACT. Here’s an overview of the latest requirements:
Reinstating Test Requirements:
Several prestigious institutions have reinstated mandatory SAT or ACT score submissions for upcoming admissions cycles:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): MIT was among the first elite universities to reinstate SAT/ACT requirements after temporarily adopting test-optional policies during the pandemic.
Harvard University: For enrollment in Fall 2025 (Class of 2029), Harvard will require standardized test scores.
Brown University: Test requirements will be reinstated for students enrolling in Fall 2025 (Class of 2029).
Dartmouth College: Standardized test scores will be mandatory for Fall 2025 admissions (Class of 2029).
Yale University: Adopting a test-flexible policy, Yale will require standardized test scores for Fall 2025 enrollment (Class of 2029).
California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Test requirements will resume for students enrolling in Fall 2025 (Class of 2029).
Stanford University: Standardized test scores will be required for Fall 2026 admissions (Class of 2030).
Continuing Test-Optional Policies:
Some institutions have chosen to extend their test-optional policies:
Princeton University: Continuing with a test-optional policy for upcoming admissions cycles.
University of Pennsylvania: Maintaining a test-optional stance for the near future.
Cornell University: Extending test-optional policies for upcoming admissions.
Recommendations for Applicants:
Stay Informed: Regularly check the official admissions websites of your target universities for the most current information on standardized testing requirements.
Consider Submitting Scores: Even if a university is test-optional, strong SAT or ACT scores can enhance your application by demonstrating academic readiness.
Holistic Application: Remember that admissions decisions are based on multiple factors, including GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.
It’s crucial to stay updated on each institution’s specific requirements and consider how submitting test scores may impact your individual application.
Ivy League and Top-Tier Universities’ SAT Requirements（for reference only）
Below is a detailed breakdown of the SAT score ranges (25th–75th percentile) for top universities:
Ivy League Universities
| University | SAT Score Range (25th–75th Percentile) |
|---|---|
| Brown University | 1440–1570 |
| Columbia University | 1480–1560 |
| Cornell University | 1390–1540 |
| Dartmouth College | 1460–1560 |
| Harvard University | 1460–1580 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 1460–1550 |
| Princeton University | 1440–1570 |
| Yale University | 1460–1580 |
Other Top-Tier Universities
| University | SAT Score Range (25th–75th Percentile) |
|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | 1510–1580 |
| Stanford University | 1440–1570 |
| University of Chicago | 1500–1570 |
| California Institute of Technology | 1530–1580 |
| Duke University | 1480–1570 |
| Northwestern University | 1460–1560 |
| Johns Hopkins University | 1500–1550 |
| Vanderbilt University | 1470–1570 |
SAT Structure and Question Types
Exam Structure
| Section | Timing | Number of Questions | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading & Writing | 64 minutes | 54 questions | Comprehension, grammar, reasoning |
| Math | 70 minutes | 44 questions | Algebra, problem-solving, data analysis |
| Total | ~2 hours | 98 questions | Combined score out of 1600 |
Detailed Question Types and Examples
Reading & Writing Section
Passage-Based Questions
Example:What is the central idea of the passage?
Passage: “Urban gardens have revitalized communities by providing fresh produce.”
Choices: (A) Urban gardening is inefficient. (B) Fresh produce is expensive. (C) Community gardens create positive change. (D) Gardening requires significant resources.
Grammar and Usage
Example:Which version best corrects the sentence?
Original: “She have always enjoyed painting landscapes.”
Choices: (A) She has always enjoyed (B) She have always enjoyed (C) She are always enjoyed (D) No change.
Vocabulary in Context
Example:What does the word “tenacious” mean in the sentence?
Sentence: “Her tenacious attitude led her to complete the marathon.”
Choices: (A) Lazy (B) Determined (C) Unsure (D) Weak.
Math Section
Algebra
Example: Solve 2x+3=112x + 3 = 112x+3=11. What is xxx?
Choices: (A) 4 (B) 5 (C) 6 (D) 7.
Problem Solving and Data Analysis
Example: A survey shows that 60% of respondents prefer option A. If 300 people participated, how many chose option A?
Choices: (A) 150 (B) 180 (C) 200 (D) 240.
Geometry and Trigonometry
Example: What is the area of a triangle with a base of 10 and a height of 5?
Choices: (A) 15 (B) 25 (C) 30 (D) 50.
Preparation Tips and Strategies
Math Preparation
Understand Key Topics: Focus on algebra, geometry, and data interpretation.
Use a Calculator Wisely: Practice both calculator and non-calculator problem-solving.
Review Errors: Learn from mistakes in practice questions.
Reading & Writing Preparation
Develop Reading Skills: Read academic articles and analyze author’s arguments.
Master Grammar Rules: Practice subject-verb agreement, punctuation, and sentence structure.
Expand Vocabulary: Use flashcards and learn context-based word usage.
Amazing Education SAT Preparation Courses
Short-Term Intensive Courses
| Course | Duration | Content | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math Bootcamp | 4 weeks, 5x/week | Algebra, geometry, data analysis | Solve timed math drills. |
| Critical Reading & Writing | 4 weeks, 5x/week | Comprehension, grammar, essay writing | Analyze and annotate complex passages. |
| Mock Test Series | Weekly | Full-length timed SAT practice tests | Simulate real test conditions. |
Long-Term Comprehensive Programs
| Course | Duration | Content | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation SAT Prep | 12 weeks, 3x/week | Basics of math and English | Build skills with practice sets. |
| Advanced SAT Prep | 12 weeks, 3x/week | Focus on high-level questions | Solve real SAT questions under guidance. |
| Personalized Tutoring | Flexible | Custom-tailored plans for individual needs | One-on-one essay reviews. |
Modular Courses
| Course Module | Focus Area | Example Questions |
|---|---|---|
| Grammar Essentials | Sentence correction, structure | Identify errors in sample sentences. |
| Data Mastery | Graphs and statistics | Interpret survey data to answer problems. |
| Essay Writing Workshop | Persuasive and analytical writing | Craft an essay based on prompts. |
Why Choose Amazing Education?
Expert Coach: Experienced SAT instructors with proven track records.
Customized Plans: Tailored courses for different levels and schedules.
Comprehensive Resources: Access to practice tests, worksheets, and online tools.
Holistic Support: Guidance on time management, stress reduction, and test strategies.
With Amazing Education’s structured courses, expert guidance, and personalized support, students can confidently prepare for the SAT and achieve their best possible scores.
Amazing Education helps prepare students in all varieties of academic tests and planning, including:
Three Stages of Academic Planning
sTAGE ONE
Goal Setting and Assessment
Description: This initial stage involves identifying short-term and long-term academic and career objectives. It includes assessing the student’s current strengths, weaknesses, interests, and academic performance to establish clear, achievable goals.
Key Activities:
Self-assessment of skills and interests
Setting specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals
Identifying desired career paths and academic outcomes
sTAGE tWO
Strategic Planning and Course Selection
Creating a timeline for achieving academic milestones and preparing for standardized tests if necessary
Description: In this stage, students develop a detailed roadmap to achieve their set goals. This includes selecting appropriate courses, extracurricular activities, and other academic opportunities that align with their objectives.
Key Activities:
Choosing relevant courses and electives that support career aspirations
Planning participation in extracurricular activities, internships, or volunteer work
sTAGE THREE
Implementation and Monitoring
Seeking feedback from teachers, mentors, and advisors to improve and stay aligned with goals
Description: The final stage focuses on executing the academic plan and continuously monitoring progress. This involves staying disciplined, managing time effectively, and making necessary adjustments to stay on track toward achieving the goals.
Key Activities:
Following the established study schedules and course plans
Regularly reviewing academic performance and adjusting strategies as needed
Effective academic planning is a dynamic process that begins with setting clear goals, followed by strategic planning to outline the path to those goals, and culminates in diligent implementation and ongoing monitoring to ensure success.
Discover a world of possibilities
Contact us to maximize your academic potential and realize your educational aspirations with personalized, expert instruction from Amazing Education’s dedicated team.
We believe every student has the ability to excel, and our mission is to provide the precise support needed to realize that potential. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, navigating the complexities of college admissions, or seeking mastery of a specific subject, our carefully tailored approach is designed to meet your unique needs. Our record of success highlights our commitment to academic excellence, but what truly sets us apart is our unwavering dedication to your intellectual growth.
Our teaching and college admissions planning teams have helped students secure places at prestigious universities worldwide, including Harvard University, Dartmouth College, Princeton University, the University of California, Berkeley, the University of Cambridge, Stanford University, Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, Columbia University, Duke University, the University of Chicago, the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia (UBC), the University of Waterloo, McGill University, and many others.
Join us on this transformative journey—contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve life long academic learning and even career success.