The marketing of SAT preparation programs has become big business. There are a bewildering array of companies, books, and software programs available to help you prepare for the SAT Reasoning Test. As long as they don't take time away from your homework or other activities, spending some time with one makes sense. However, unless you already are making straight A's, it is not recommended that you spend a large amount of time taking a prep course, especially during the school year since your overall academic performance can suffer. 

Remember, admission officers say that your courses and grades are the most important factor they consider when making an admission decision. For that reason lengthy coaching courses, and especially those requiring a lot of time and effort that could be better spent on schoolwork or other worthwhile activities, may be detrimental to your admission chances. Need proof? Look at our online scattergrams. University of Michigan makes a great example.

To be sure, there are valuable test-taking tips and strategies that you should learn. SAT research from The College Board shows that 20 hours or so of quality preparation time results in about the same improvement as programs that are considerably longer--and more expensive. 

Remember, a change in your SAT Reasoning Test scores may help distinguish you from other applicants; but so will success in an especially rigorous set of courses, involvement in school or community activities, or demonstrating an outstanding talent. If you are attending summer school somewhere and want to also take an SAT preparation course, go ahead. But don't go to summer school simply to take an SAT course. It is not worth the expense.

Free Online SAT and ACT Preparation

Number2.com: Provides online test preparation courses are totally free! By creating an account you can access a customized course that includes user-friendly tutorials, practice sessions that dynamically adapt to each student's ability level, a vocabulary builder, and more. Since 2000, over 2 million students have enrolled in Number2.com's online courses, and the web site now receives over 50 million hits per month. If you are the type of student who is motivated to prepare on your own rather than attending a class, this site is great.

Local SAT Prep Options

Note: The SAS counselors are unable comment on the quality of service provided by local test prep companies. Satisfaction with a company often has to do with the particular teacher a student happens to get. They are listed for here as a service for our students. 

TestTakers: Preparation for the SAT Reasoning Test and Subject Tests is offered by TestTakers, a Singapore-based company founded by Columbia graduate Jeremy Craig. Each September TestTakers offers weekend classes for the SAT at SAS.. These sessions are available to SAS juniors and seniors - sorry, but non-SAS students are not allowed. Pick up information in the counseling office. Contact: Jeremy Craig, Program Director at 6728-7476 or info@testtakers-sg.com

Studyworks: 60 hours over 6 weeks. Cost S$1,350, includes 3 diagnostic tests given before, during, and after the course. Students are welcome to review any part of the course for free or to redo the entire course after the initial 60 hours for only $80. Individual tuition is provided for students who have difficulty fitting into the regular schedule. Contact info@studyworks.com.sg.or 6468-2621.

Icon+ Education Centre : Small-group SAT Reasoning Test prep courses can be customized specially for SAS students. In addition, SAS students will enjoy a 10% discount on all existing prep courses, which include unlimited and complimentary one-on-one consultations with the lecturer outside of class, a patented e-learning program that complements classroom teaching, access to study and video facilities, and Money-Back Guarantee on Improvement. Contact info@icon-plus.com or call 6336-6551.

SATs Zone: The basic basic SAT course is split into academic sessions and weekly tutorials. Academic sessions include 4 Verbal, 3 Math, and one full length test. Sessions also include techniques on time management, question strategy and difficult question practice. Once a weekly tutorial sessions are held for students who wish to cover areas of interest. The office is at Raffles Plaza. Call 6722 0836 or email for more information.

Seoul Education Centre: This private tuition center offers SAT prep, offering a 3.5 hour practice test every Saturday. Following the test, a 3-hour review class and an optional math review are offered. They are located at #11-04 Tanglin Shopping Centre. Call 6235-5465 for details.

Note to Local Test Prep Companies: If you would like your program listed here, please contact the SAS Counseling Department.