Why Tests Are Important

Are the Publics Next?

The private schools aren't the only ones returning to testing. UT Austin announced they will switch from test-optional to test-required for the fall 2025 applicants (high school class of 2024).

The statistics that came with this announcement were stunning:

• Of their enrolled 2023 first-year students, those who submitted test scores under the test-optional policy had a first-semester GPA 0.86 points higher than their counterparts.
• Those same students were 55% less likely to have a first-semester GPA less than a 2.0.

Students who submit test scores are more likely to perform better in college. This is the most likely reason more schools will return to testing.

Money, Money, Money

This Mizzou scholarship chart for fall 2024 students (Missouri residents) is one of the most transparent in the industry. GPA is on an unweighted 4.0 scale. There's a similar chart for non-Missouri residents.

• 3.3 GPA, 21 ACT to 3.3 GPA, 22 ACT = $1,000/yr = $4,000 total award
• 3.7 GPA, 24 ACT to 3.7 GPA, 25 ACT = +$2,500/yr = $10,000 gain ($14,000 total award)
• 3.85 GPA, 27 ACT to 3.85 GPA, 28 ACT = +$1,500/yr = $6,000 gain ($20,000 total award)
• 3.85 GPA, 31 ACT to 3.85 GPA, 32 ACT = +$2,200/yr = $8,800 gain ($28,800 total award)

A failure to submit test scores leaves scholarship dollars on the table. The ROI of test prep is clear.

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How to Improve (Their Math Score)

Coaching Moment

​“I have no idea” is not allowed in my ACT math sessions.

Outside Resource

​Mathchops is the best math practice tool for the ACT.

I give my students a free Mathchops subscription during the time we work together. We check their stats regularly, discuss the benefit of spaced repetition, and analyze how an adaptive math software can help their score improve.

​100 questions in Mathchops ≈ 1 point of improvement, according to data from Mathchops.

Other Stuff

Upcoming Deadlines

Pathway Prep July 13 Small Group ACT Prep Course Registration: May 31

June 8, 2024 ACT Photo Upload: May 31 (the Friday before test week)

July 13, 2024 ACT Registration: June 7*

*I have heard that spots are already filling for the July test. If you're planning to register for that test, please do so ASAP!

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Until next week,

Alex Pint
913.991.8217

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