Video Description:
Did you know SAT® and ACT® test scores can be the difference between being accepted or rejected? Here’s what no one tells you—and what to do about it.
Whether you’re in 9th grade or already a junior, your SAT and ACT scores have a bigger impact on your college future than you might think. In this video, we break down exactly why test scores matter, how they affect college admissions and scholarships, and what a realistic, grade-by-grade testing plan looks like.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why colleges returned to requiring test scores after going test-optional
- How scores determine college readiness (and what that means for you)
- The real score ranges you need for top Texas schools like UT-Austin, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech
- Why “general admission” scores aren’t always enough—especially for competitive majors like business or engineering
- A grade-by-grade testing plan for 9th, 10th, and 11th graders
- Test prep tips that actually work (hint: it’s not cramming)
⏱ Time Stamps:
- 0:00 – Intro: The Tortoise and the Hare
- 1:07 – How test scores are used in the admissions process
- 3:37 – Score ranges for popular Texas colleges
- 4:00 – What test optional really means
- 4:30 – Gen admissions vs. competitive major requirements
- 5:38 – Testing plans by grade level
- 8:51 – Test prep tips to help raise your score
- 10:43 – Closing thoughts
🎯 Whether you’re aiming for UT-Austin’s McCombs School of Business, Texas A&M Engineering, or still figuring out your list — knowing your score goals early puts you in control of your future.
📌 Resources Mentioned:
- Free digital SAT practice tests: collegeboard.org (KD also offers numerous practice tests through it’s test prep programs)
- Check your target school’s score requirements before you apply (usually available on the college’s website)
- For help with improving your score, check out KD’s Complete Test Prep
- For detailed guidance that walks students through the whole college exploration and application process, explore all that’s included in the APPLY NOW! Advantage Program
- If you need both test prep and college counseling, save up to $1000 when you sign up for KD’s College Prep Packages
Interested in learning how to improve PSAT, SAT®, and ACT® scores?
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