Answers to All Your College Prep Questions
| Frequently Asked Questions |
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| Paying for College F.A.Q. |
| SAT/PSAT F.A.Q. |
| Test Preparation F.A.Q. |
| College Prep Genius F.A.Q. |
Paying for College F.A.Q.
Cost of College
Free College
Preparing for College
How much does college cost?
$80,000 is the average cost for a four year private university. Many colleges have several full scholarships available for students who score well on the PSAT/NMQST (approximately 200 and above) or the SAT (approximately 1400 and above for Math/Verbal). Right now, the average math and verbal score is 980. College Prep Genius has proven to dramatically improve students’ scores on both the PSAT/NMQST and the SAT. It teaches students how to recognize hidden patterns and reveals secret tips that can be found on the SAT and PSAT/NMQST, helping students save time, figure out the correct answers, and raise their test scores. Click here to order now!
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Can you really get a full scholarship for college based on your PSAT/NMQST* or SAT* score?
Absolutely. My son received numerous offers from colleges because of his outstanding PSAT/NMQST score (219). Just a few of the offers he turned down were from Texas A & M (full-tuition, honors dorm, study abroad stipends), Texas Tech (full-tuition, room and board, one year graduate school money), Oral Roberts University (full-tuition, room and board, plus exclusive honors status and dorm), and Abilene Christian University (full tuition, plus room and board). My son graduated from Ouachita Baptist which gave him full tuition, study abroad stipends, free laundry and unlimited cafeteria access. After contacting other colleges, I found that these universities are not alone in granting such awards to significant PSAT/NMQST and SAT scores. For instance, Oklahoma Baptist University begins to give out full-tuition scholarships to students with a 1400 SAT (math/verbal)) or above. Texas Christian University gives out twelve Chancellor Scholarships (which amounts to a full-ride) for scores starting at 1400 (math/verbal), not to mention an additional $2000 for National Merit finalists. National Merit Scholars at The University of Florida not only receive a full ride, but also get $5,000 a year bonus to spend at their leisure. Ouachita Baptist offers a Board of Trustees Scholarship for full tuition, room and board, $1000 stipend and Honors Program for a 1320 SAT (math/verbal) and a National Merit standing. Belhaven College in Jackson Mississippi gives a Distinguished Scholar award (full tuition, room and board) for a 1320 (math/verbal). Many other universities offer full scholarships opportunities starting as low as 1320 as well.
If a student receives a scholarship but wants to delay going to a university, will he or she be able to take advantage of that scholarship later on?
Every college has its own rules and regulations, so it is best to check with each individual college about their scholarship offers. It is important to know that if a student receives too many college hours (from junior college, dual credit, CLEP courses, etc.), he or she may no longer be considered an incoming freshman but a transfer student and that can nullify opportunities for scholarships.
Also, if a student delays college after high school, the College Board does hold their test score for two years.
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When should my child start preparing for the PSAT/NMQST and SAT?
Immediately. It’s never too early to begin preparing for your child’s future, especially when it’s a matter of $80,000. I recommend starting PSAT/NMQST prep by ninth grade. The PSAT/NMQST is only offered once a year in October and it ONLY counts for the National Merit Contest in a student’s junior year. Therefore they should learn the techniques and patterns found on these tests early so that when it counts, they will be ready. However, the SAT is offered seven times a year, but statistics show that most students wait until their senior year to start preparing for this test. HUGE MISTAKE! Not only does this strategy add to the already mounting pressure of leaving high school, but it also shortens their time to improve, thus making it more difficult for them to raise their scores. Begin preparation now by ordering the College Prep Genius program!
How soon should a student start learning your information?
I get phone calls daily from people who want to register for my class right before an actual SAT. The truth is that the longer you wait, the less time you have to improve. Cramming for any test is never a good idea. Students should start learning about the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT at least in ninth grade. They should have good knowledge of Algebra 1 and 2 as well as Geometry by the end of tenth grade. They should be prepared by their junior year to take the PSAT/NMSQT, since a student is only eligible for The National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test in the eleventh grade.
When should a student take his first SAT?
That depends on how early he or she learns the importance of the test. If they are in ninth grade, they should work on practice tests at home. Ideally when they are scoring around 1200(math and verbal), then it is a good idea to sign them up for the real test. A good scenario would be that the student receives the desired score he or she wanted before his or her senior year. This can take the pressure off a year already full of college decisions, final exams and graduating. Of course, if the student learns the significance of this test somewhere in eleventh or twelfth grade, then he or she should make the SAT a priority and practice as much as possible at home (hopefully reaching around 1200 before test time). Then the student should schedule as many real tests as possible, especially since a senior has lonely a few opportunities to take test. Begin preparing by clicking here to order!
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SAT & PSAT/NMSQT F.A.Q.
Signing up for the Test
Taking the Real Test
SAT Question Difficulty
Test Scores
Sending SAT scores to Colleges
The PSAT/NMSQT
SAT versus ACT
Homeschooling and The SAT
Dyslexia and Special Needs
Adults and The SAT
How do I sign-up for the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT?
Parents or students can sign-up by mail or on the official web site www.collegeboard.com. Please sign up early because deadlines and late fees may apply. There is a nominal fee to sign up for the test, but waivers are available for individuals that may find this fee a financial burden. The PSAT/NMSQT can only be registered for at your local high school up until the day of the test if there is room.
How often are the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT offered?
The SAT is offered seven times a year (October, November, December, January, March, May, June), and the PSAT/NMSQT is offered once a year (Third Wednesday or Saturday in October).
What do I do if my child was signed up as a junior to take the SAT and then the next year I found out about the PSAT/NMSQT only counting for scholarships in their junior year?
If the student has not taken the PSAT/NMSQT yet, they still can. You can sign them up as a junior, as long as you show the appropriate graduation date that correlates with them being a junior. According to the National Merit Corporation, the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT are separate tests and grades are not compared. The PSAT/NMSQT score is only used for the scholarship contest and counts in a student’s junior year or the third year he or she takes it.
Is it true that colleges only want students to take the SAT 2-3 times?
False. There is no penalty for taking the SAT many times. It’s offered seven times a year. Colleges generally drop the lowest scores and some colleges will even take the highest scores from different sections on different tests. They do not average the tests.
What do I take to the real test?
Being prepared will help lessen the overall stress of test-taking, so gather these items the night before: several sharpened pencils (#2), calculator with new batteries, picture I.D., registration ticket (from College Board web site), driving directions, sweater (buildings are usually kept cold), and a snack. There are more priceless tips about “The week before the test, the day before the test and the day of the test” in the book College Prep Genius. Click here to order now!
What kind of calculator do I need for the SAT and PSAT?
First of all, all math questions on these tests CAN be answered correctly and quickly without a calculator. To learn the secrets to easily finding the math answers order here. However it is recommended that all students take a calculator to the test. You are only allowed to use it during the math sections, and sharing one will be cause for dismissal from the test. Here are the acceptable calculators: Graphing calculators, Scientific calculators, and Four-function calculators (not recommended option). BE WARNED – students may be seated away from other students (at the discretion of the test proctor) if their calculator has characters that are one inch or bigger or if it has a raised display where others may see it. THESE are unacceptable calculators: Laptop or a portable/handheld computer; Any calculator that has (typewriter-like) keypad, uses an electrical outlet, makes noise, or has a paper tape; Electronic writing pad or pen-input/stylus-driven device; Pocket organizer; and Cell phone calculators.
Can you give me some good tips on using a calculator?
It is always good to use the same calculator that you have been practicing with at home. Always bring one to the test just in case, and make sure it has fresh batteries. Simple functions are all that are needed, so don’t waste your money on expensive calculators. Learn how to never get out your calculator with College Prep Genius order now.
How many times can I take the PSAT/NMSQT?
Students can take the PSAT up to three times during high school. It is only offered once per year, but a student can take advantage of the test in the freshman, sophomore, and junior years. However, the score will only count for scholoraships during the junior year.
Is there Trigonometry or Calculus on the SAT test?
No! The highest math on the SAT will be Algebra 2, and on the PSAT/NMSQT will be Algebra 1. Most of the math problems come from basic Arithmetic and simple Geometry.
What makes an SAT question hard?
A question is considered hard if more people got it wrong on the experimental section of a previous test.
Are some SATs harder than others?
No, The College Board tries to make sure each test is created with the same level of difficulty and integrity. Every exam is independently graded on the same equal curve, so that no test is more difficult than any other.
Is it true that the test questions are in order of difficulty and I should work through the earlier questions fast and concentrate longer on the last questions?
No, they are not necessarily in order of difficulty, especially in the Critical Reading Section. To verify this, look at the answer key pages in the books, Official SAT Guide and The10 Real SATS. Treat each problem the same—look at it logically and follow the steps to success outlined in College Prep Genius. Click here to order now!
What is a good SAT score?
The average score right now is 1500 (out of 2400). A good starting score for scholarships for many colleges is around an1800. Full scholarships can be obtained with scores around 2100. A lot of colleges say they are not counting the new writing section for the first few years. If this is true, then around a 1400 (math and critical reading) would be a good starting point for scholarships. Test scores for college entrance vary from each college. Read testimonials of students who have raised their scores as much as 500 points.
How soon do I get my SAT test score back?
The fastest way to get your scores back is to create an account at www.collegeboard.com. Scores can be viewed on this website around two weeks after test date.
What if I think the College Board made a mistake in grading my test?
For a small fee, you can request your test to be hand scored. Call them at (609) 771-7600.
What if there were distractions that hindered my test score?
Contact Fair Test at (617) 864-4810, www.fairtest.org, FAX: (617) 497-2224.
SENDING SAT SCORES TO COLLEGES
How do you get your SAT score sent to the colleges that you are looking to possibly attend for your higher education?
When you sign-up on line for the SAT, there are four boxes where students can request their scores to be sent to the colleges of their choice at no charge. For a small fee, they can have their scores sent to additional colleges. For more information, visit http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/scores.html.
How do I get only my best test score sent to the school(s) of my choice?
The College Board has Score Choice where students can choose to send only certain scores to colleges. Sometimes a school wants to see ALL scores by a student, but the good news is that most colleges only want to know a student’s highest score. They don’t have time to go through every score. There is also no penalty for taking the test many times. Colleges don’t average the scores and many schools will take the highest scores from different sections on different tests to get the student the best score. Therefore it behooves students to take the test many times.
What is the difference between the SAT test and the PSAT/NMSQT test?
With the College Board changes in March of 2005, the two tests are very similar now. They both contain three sections: Math, Critical Reading and Writing. However, the PSAT/NMSQT does not contain an essay and has up to Algebra 1 on the math section, whereas, The SAT contains some Algebra 2. The PSAT/NMSQT is only offered in October (third Tuesday or Saturday) and the SAT is offered seven times a year (October, November, December, January, March, May and June). The SAT is used for college entrance as well as scholarship opportunities, but the PSAT/NMSQT’s sole purpose is to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship program.
Both tests are important and when students are studying test-taking techniques for one test, essentially they are also studying for the other test.
Why is the PSAT/NMQST so important?
If a student’s PSAT/NMQST score falls within the semi-finalist range, it will qualify him or her for numerous scholarship opportunities that can include full tuition, room and board, graduate school money, study abroad stipends and more. For many colleges, having a National Merit Scholar is a bragging right for their school since semi-finalists represent the top one percent of the nation. PSAT/NMQST scores from minorities are also entered in The National Achievement Award.
What if I miss the one chance at the PSAT/NMSQT when it counts?
Your student can take the PSAT/NMSQT alternative testing option, which is the converted SAT 1 test score taken in substitution for the PSAT/NMSQT. They have up to eight months to retake this test several times (after the October PSAT/NMSQT has been administered). This procedure includes calling or sending a letter to the National Merit Corporation (by March) stating that your child did not take the test and you want the extension/alternative testing time. It is not necessary to give a reason why they missed the test. The National Merit Corporation will send you information showing future SAT test dates and tell you to use their code on the test (code 0085). The scores will then go directly to them [The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (847)866-5100]. Students will still be eligible for scholarships opportunities. These scores can also count for their SAT as well. Besides the National Merit code, students will need to put down the code(s) for the colleges they want their SAT score to go to as well.
What is a great PSAT/NMSQT score?
It varies yearly depending on what state you live in and the average test score the year it is taken. For example, qualifying scores for Texas have been around a 216 but for Arkansas, they have been around a 201. A complete state test score breakdown can be found in the book College Prep Genius (Order now!). Out of a possible 240 points, in recent years, a test score anywhere in the 200-217 range has qualified students for the semi-finalist status. The National Merit Corporation will send all semi-finalists information and details about applying to be a finalist. To not be disqualified, make sure you do everything they ask and get the information mailed back in time to be eligible for any awards. Make follow-up calls to make sure materials were received. Out of the contenders, scholars are then picked. There are also scholarship opportunities for those who score at the National Merit Commendable level (10-15 points below the semi-finalist status).
What about getting my test booklet back?
The PSAT/NMSQT booklet will automatically be sent back to you/your school, but to get your SAT information, you will have to order the Question and Answer Service from the College Board. This service is usually offered for the October, January and May tests. Not only does this allow you the opportunity to go over the questions that were missed, but also the packet can be used to practice taking the test over again.
What is the difference between the SAT and the ACT?
The ACT is only offered six times and the SAT is offered seven times a year. The ACT is a curriculum-based test and contains English, Science and up to Trigonometry. The SAT is a logic test and based on Critical Thinking for its Math, Verbal and Writing sections. Most schools (especially Ivy-League) prefer the SAT and some schools will convert one score to the other. Start preparing for the SAT today by checking out the College Prep Genius curriculum.
Is the ACT conversion chart in this book the same for the new SAT?
Yes, at this point, The College Board has made no changes on the chart. Check with each individual college to see if they have a different conversion chart (Example: 1300 SAT – Math/Verbal = 29 ACT).
What is the difference between dual credit, AP classes and CLEP hours?
A dual credit class is when a student is enrolled in both a high school (public, private or homeschool) and a local college or university. Students take classes at both institutions to simultaneously earn credit for their graduation requirements as well as college credit. Although, some dual credit classes result in college credit, some are used as honors courses and some are used for internal class placement and prerequisite requirements.
AP (Advanced Placement) classes are college-level courses taken in high school. Students who complete AP courses are eligible to take AP exams designed by The College Board. These tests are scored on a scale of 1-5. A score between 3 and 5 may qualify a student for college credit at most colleges and universities.
CLEP (College Level Examination Program) allows a student to earn college credit by taking qualified CLEP tests in a particular subject. The tests are designed to correspond to a one-semester class; it can sometimes cover up to a two-year course. The exams are generally 90 minutes long and cover specific information on knowledge and skills acquired about a certain subject.
Are homeschoolers at a disadvantage when it comes to the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT?
Definitely not! The material on the SAT is not an exclusive curriculum found only at public or private schools. The test is a “reasoning” or logic test and the key to doing well is to learn the hidden strategies and recurring patterns that are usually found on these tests.
Where is the homeschooler’s PSAT/NMSQT score sent after it is graded?
Test scores (and booklets) will automatically be sent to the high school code placed in the grid. To ensure that scores/test are sent to your home, use the appropriate homeschool code for your state in the blank provided. Tests with the homeschool code will not affect the average scores of the testing facility.
Where do I find the homeschool code to put on the test?
The homeschool code for your state can be found at: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/psat/reg/homeschool/state-codes.html.
What if my child has dyslexia or another disability?
Accommodations can be made for students with special needs and time constraints can be lessened. However, going through the process of obtaining special accommodations could take many months. Parents will need to schedule a battery of tests, obtain the diagnostician’s report for their student, arrange for and implement accommodations at school, and have these accommodations in use in the school setting for a minimum of four months (College Board rule). When applying for special accommodations please keep in mind the time it takes for the College Board to process and grant/deny the request. Families may be limited to working with the school’s calendar/timetable for testing, ARDs and creating IEPs. Ideally, the process of preparing for standardized tests should start in the student’s freshman or sophomore year, to allow time for the College Board accommodations to be in place before the PSAT/NNSQT in the student’s junior year. For more information about forms, eligibility and documentation please visit http://www.collegeboard.com/ssd/prof/physical-disabilities.html.
Can adults take the SAT?
Yes, although not all colleges require it for older applicants. Please check with the school of your choice.
Test Preparation F.A.Q.
Improving SAT and PSAT/NMSQT Scores
Practicing for the Real Tests
Study Materials
SAT Vocabulary Words
Computer Test Prep
Preparing Younger Children
Can College Prep Genius help a student prepare for standardized tests and improve their score?
Every SAT is made up of reoccurring patterns throughout the test. College Prep Genius materials break down these methods and teach students to unveil the secrets of the SAT. Through clever ACRONYMS students can not only grasp these innovative concepts, but also can readily recall them to memory while taking the actual test. It’s like walking in with an answer key stored in your head. On average, students have raised their scores from 300-500 points by using these materials. See our testimonials!
Is it true that the only way to improve your SAT score is by enrolling in one of those expensive prep courses?
Definitely not! Usually prep courses are very expensive; they can cost between $2000-$5000 and only boast an average raise in test scores of 200 points. But why spend money to study material that may not be on the real tests? Only the creators of the test (College Board) know what will be on the test. It is better to learn to decode the hidden schemes and recurring patterns that the College Board likes to use on their tests so you can learn to answer their questions. College Prep Genius cleverly teaches students, through ACRONYMS, how to remember steps to these revealed patterns found on the SAT and PSAT/NMQST. Click Here to order now!
What if I am a bad test-taker?
Many students consider themselves “bad test-takers” because they tend to do poorly on standardized tests (even though they usually have good grades). Truthfully, these students are not bad test-takers! They just don’t understand the logic behind the test questions. Getting familiar with the recurring patterns, learning test-taking strategies and lowering test anxiety is the key to help students gain confidence in their test-taking abilities and raise their scores.
Is it better to wait to take a prep course (“Master the SAT Class” or DVD) until closer to the time of the real test so the information will be fresh on a student’s mind?
That would make sense if the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT were tests of content, but since they are tests of logic using recurring patterns and hidden tricks, the best way to be successful is to take the class/use the DVD as soon as possible. The longer a student waits, the less time there is to improve. Starting early is the key. Ideally, a student should learn test prep in 9th grade (7th if they are doing the Duke TIP Letter). With so much time to prepare, students can eliminate the stress of test anxiety when they reach the upper grades.
Since your course is considerably less than most prep courses, does it work and do you have any guarantees?
My goal is to free families from the enormous cost of test preparation. (We didn’t have thousands of dollars to spend on a prep class and I don’t believe in overcharging others for a program that can change their life.) If you are of the belief that a test prep class is worth more because it costs more, then here are some considerations to think about when looking for a class:
1. What is the reputation of the company?
Have you investigated their background and read reviews about their claims as well as the overall satisfaction from those who attended. Independent studies have shown that overall, most students do not raise their test scores because they do not attend all the labs and/or finish all the work that is assigned.
2. Who are the teachers?
Don’t just believe what they advertise, be willing to ask them what college they attended and what test score did they receive? (Some companies boast of their teachers coming from top colleges when in fact, this may be very untrue.)
3. What materials are they using for the students to practice with?
Most prep classes use fake tests that are irrelevant to the real SAT and PSAT/NMSQT. Make-believe tests are not like the real test and students will not be able to learn the recurring patterns that can only be found on College Board (the real test-maker) materials.
4. Have you read their guarantee in detail?
Many of the expensive courses may give a money-back guarantee if a student doesn’t raise his or her score by a certain point range. While this sounds like you can’t lose, read the fine print because it is designed so they don’t lose money. It may say that the student must attend every single class and turn in every single bit of homework (which is usually so much that most students are unable to complete because of their busy schedules). There are also prep schools that give the student an initial diagnostic test and then have them retake another test when they are finished with the course. Again, be aware because these are often their own tests and they may grade on a curve to reflect an increased score. Also, some high schools that contract with these schools are given special versions of the course and often don’t offer a guarantee.
5. Why do some students receive free classes while most parents pay the big bucks for the class?
Some expensive schools will purchase the PSAT/NMSQT scores of certain zip codes to find the students who are already scoring high as sophomores on this test. They will then offer them free classes at their school. While this is great for those students, it leaves out a lot of students who will have to pay the full price for the class. Besides, if those students score high on their next tests, it is difficult to tell if they did so based on the school or if they would have scored high anyway. This can inflate the overall statistics of the prep course. Some high schools will partner with some prep schools and will pay a portion of the tuition to them. Where is that money coming from and why are they only offering it to an elite group of students?
If you are considering spending a lot of money on a test prep course, just be informed and keep in mind that even if you have the money to invest in one, it is like a gym membership; if it is not used–it is money wasted! While there is no way to guarantee a student’s score will raise (although it is not unusual to see a score increase of 300 points), we do offer a 30 day money-back guarantee of our DVD set. Students MUST follow the “Checklist for Success” to help ensure an increase in their score. If a student doesn’t practice the correct way, it will be difficult for them to succeed. To excel in sports, an athlete must practice to win a game. The SAT and PSAT/NMSQT are really games, and if a student learns to play the College Board way–they can win!
What is the best way to practice for the real SAT test?
No one wants to waste their time or money when it comes to preparing for the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT. After students have learned the recurring patterns, shortcuts and test-taking techniques from the “Master the SAT Class” (Order Now!), it is extremely important that they continue preparing for the real test. (Just like in sports, athletes MUST practice in order to win a game.) I highly recommend that students ONLY practice with College Board materials. This is the company who makes the tests, and students need to become familiar with their questions, hidden patterns and schemes.
What about practicing for the PSAT/NMSQT?
All students should take the PSAT/NMSQT in ninth and tenth grade BEFORE it counts for big scholarships. This allows students to get familiar with the test, and they will receive their test booklet back so they can review it. All students should definitely take the PSAT/NMSQT in their junior year (offered in October) because this will qualify them for the National Merit competition.
There are only two differences between the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT: the SAT has Algebra 2 and an essay section which are not found on the PSAT. This means that as students are preparing for the PSAT/NMSQT, they are also preparing for the SAT. One of the best ways to practice for the PSAT/NMSQT is to purchase retired test booklets from The College Board’s online store. They will be listed under PSAT/NMSQT, and the answers will be emailed to you. Many of these resources are listed in College Prep Genius (Order Now!).
What is the best way to learn your clever ACRONYMS?
I suggest that you use index cards at first. At the top, write horizontally the section. Along the left side, write the ACRONYM vertically and big. Next to each letter, write the long version. On the flipside, do the same but write the shorter version. In the beginning, refer to the longer side as you are learning the ACRONYM. Then switch to the shorter version. After you have memorized each ACRONYM, start writing the word(s) at the top of the appropriate page. There is a section on the teaching DVD that contains the ACRONYMS for easy memorizing. Click here to order now!
What type of logic curriculum should I use?
Choose book(s) or course(s) that will strengthen your critical thinking skills and help you to reason logically.
Do you have a list of classic books for my student to read?
No, because there are so many good books to choose from. However, use these criteria when looking for classic books: well- known, enlarges your knowledge, has lasting value, has withstood time, high standard, unabridged. (Type “classic books” in search engine for starters.)
Why does your material not include a list of most often used vocabulary words on the SAT?
Learning a lot of vocabulary words is not necessarily the key to scoring higher on the Critical Reading Section. The College Board is the only one who knows what words will be on the test. You could learn 4,000 vocabulary words and not one of them be on the test. Since the SAT is a logic test, there are ways to figure out the words without knowing them. College Prep Genius gives you exclusive inside information to help with unknown words on the SAT.
Learning difficult vocabulary words that may be on the SAT can be painlessly mastered in a fun way by the new VocabCafe Book Series. Click Here to order now!
Do you recommend using computer training software for preparing for the SAT?
No. Since the real test is in a booklet and answers are derived by using a pencil, it is best to practice just like the real test. Test questions are designed to throw students off, so a pencil should be used to decipher the questions by circling, underlining, drawing arrows, etc. This cannot be done through a computer screen. I highly recommend that any SAT questions that are on the computer should be printed out and worked with a pencil.
How do I prepare my younger children?
Younger children should read good books, learn a basic logic curriculum, begin volunteer work/community service, look at future colleges, and prepare for the PSAT/NMSQT (to take for practice) in ninth grade. They should also have had Algebra 1, and Geometry before entering eleventh grade. If that’s not possible, then have them take Algebra 1 in ninth grade and Geometry in tenth. Then, start them in Algebra 2 as soon as possible. (Algebra 2 is on the SAT but not on the PSAT.)
What is the Duke Gift Program?
The Duke TIP Talent Search is for seventh graders in participating states who take the SAT or ACT. Go to http://www.tip.duke.edu/talent_searches/ for more information. Register at information@tip.duke.edu or call the Duke TIP office at (919) 668-9100, Monday-Friday 8-5 p.m., EST. Benefits could include: testing experience, college guides, merit certificate, Duke Gifted Letter and much more. This is open to students from public, private and homeschool backgrounds.
Students who are unable to participate in the annual 7th grade talent search can register for the “TIP Option” program. Students must meet at least one of the following criteria:
• Seventh graders who want to be involved with Duke TIP but do not qualify for the 7th Grade Talent Search;
• Seventh graders who qualify for the 7th Grade Talent Search but missed the deadline or test dates;
• Students in grades 7, 8, or 9 living outside the Duke TIP 16-state Talent Search Region;
• Students in grades 8 and 9 who want to take the SAT or ACT and report their scores to Duke TIP.
College Prep Genius F.A.Q.
Cost of Products
SAT Classes
The “Master the SAT Class” DVD
Speaking Seminars
Our Guarantee
Contact Information
How much do the materials cost?
The “Master the SAT Class” on DVD retails for $59.95, the textbook, College Prep Genius retails for $49.95, and the class workbook for $19.95. The DVD contains all the information found in the “Master the SAT Class”. The textbook contains over 325 pages jammed full of helpful advice, including: revealed secrets about the Verbal/Critical Reading Section (Sentence Completion), Math Section (covering the two passage-based sections of math, shortcuts, avoiding the calculator…), twenty-five pages of must-know math definitions, Writing Section/PSAT/NMQST (Identifying Sentence Errors, Improving Sentences and Improving Paragraphs), How to Write a winning Essay (including several pages of practice essay topics), Scholarship Contest Information (including what your score can get you and over thirty scholarship web sites), and how to conquer the college interview. In total there are over 350 tips, shortcuts, strategies and pertinent college prep material in the text. The workbook contains a full set of practice problems that complements the DVD and textbook and covers every SAT question type. The entire set bought together retails for $99. Start learning Today! Click here to order now!
College Prep Genius F.A.Q. | Top
How often are your SAT prep classes offered?
The classes vary year by year, but are usually offered through the spring, summer and fall. They are held all over the United States, and are based in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Click here for more information and the current class schedule. They are usually in high demand, so you will need to sign up early.
What does the “Master the SAT Class” cover?
College Prep Genius presents the “Master the SAT Class” which covers all aspects of the SAT and PSAT. Utilizing the revolutionary curriculum of the College Prep Genius textbook, this 10-hour course equips students to conquer the secrets of these standardized tests. Click here for a complete class overview.
How do I get College Prep Genius to come to my city?
Jean Burk frequently travels across America to teach her the “Master the SAT Class”. All one needs to bring College Prep Genius to your hometown is an adequate facility and a minimum of 25 students. We will take care of the rest. Check out our Host a Class page. For more information about bringing College Prep Genius to you, contact Jean by e-mailing jean@collegeprepgenius.com or calling 81-SAT-2-PREP.
How can I take advantage of your class if I don’t live in the DFW area and you’re not able to come to my city?
Due to popular demand of my class, my teaching DVD was released in the summer of 2008. You can NOW take my “Master the SAT Prep Class” in the privacy of your own home. Click here to order now!
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The “Master The SAT Class” DVD
How does your DVD set compare to your class?
The DVD set is the complete class in 12 easy lessons. Students can break the class down and learn at their own pace. With the DVD, they can go back over any part at any time. Click here to order now!
Which is better for the student, to take the class or buy the DVD set?
Every student is different. Some learn better in a classroom setting and others learn better at their own pace with the DVD. Because there is a special price for the DVD for students who take the class, many parents buy the DVD along with the class, so that their student can go back over the strategies, techniques and patterns over and over again. It is not only important to know why the right answer is right, but also why the other four are wrong and how not to fall for the wrong pattern on the real test.
Since most people need repetition to really get down the information, students can take advantage of this by either taking the class and then watching the DVD (there is a special price for enrolled students) or vice-versa. The advantage of having the DVD is the ability to go back over it again and again.
This 4-disc DVD set covers an extensive review of the College Prep Genius materials as discussed in the “MASTER THE SAT CLASS”. It’s the essential follow-up guide for students who truly want to get FREE College. In order to solidify the class strategies, most students will find this class review extremely beneficial and the perfect way to reinforce how to apply this information appropriately. Click here to order now!
How long are the DVD’s?
Each of the twelve lessons run around 45 minutes in length. (This does not include time to work the problems in the workbook.) This format makes it simple and easy to incorporate the DVD lessons into a regular class session. Click here to order now!
Can I use your materials (DVD set and books) to teach in my classroom?
Yes. I have a licensing agreement that allows my materials, since they are copyrighted, to be taught by someone else. To participate, you would need to purchase a DVD set, have a minimum of students and each student will be required to have their own book, workbook and pay for the nominal licensing fee. For more information, please contact Jean by e-mailing jean@collegeprepgenius.com or calling 81-SAT-2-PREP.
What if my DVD disc does not work?
Since there are many different types of DVD players on the market, the problem could be with the system. Try a couple of different machines to see if that is the problem. If you are still having problems, please contact us and we will gladly replace it.
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How do I get information about Mrs. Burk speaking to my group about “Free College at Your Fingertips?”
Mrs. Burk does travel all over to share her expertise in this area. For more information about Jean, Click here. To find out more about her seminar and traveling plans, write jean@collegeprepgenius.com or call 81-SAT 2- PREP.
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Do online orders have a guarantee?
Yes it does. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with the material, you can get a full refund within 30 days of purchase. NO QUESTIONS ASKED! This is risk-free, so order now and learn the steps to greatly improving your SAT and PSAT/NMQST scores! We will process refunds within one week of receiving an authorized return. You will receive a check for the full amount. Please send the product(s) to Maven of Memory, P.O. Box 398 Hurst, Texas, 76053.
What’s your Shipping Policy?
We use USPS for all orders shipped within the United States and internationally. Most paypal, credit and debit card orders are shipped within 24 hours. Mail or Fax orders are shipped once payment is received. Please note: We do not ship orders on Saturday or Sunday. Any order placed on Saturday, Sunday or a national holiday will be shipped on the next business day.
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How can I get in touch with you?
Feel free to contact us at info@collegeprepgenius.comor call 81-SAT 2-PREP (817-282-7737). Our business mailing address is P.O. Box 398, Hurst, Tx. 76053; FAX: 817-282-0000.
