Evaluating When an SAT Tutor Makes Sense

Nothing strikes fear into parents’ hearts like receiving their children’s PSAT scores and realizing that they have their work cut out for them if they are going to get a scholarship to the college of their dreams.  The knee jerk reaction is often to immediately find an SAT tutor in the area and try to secure as many private sessions with that tutor as possible. 

Smart parents should be wary of any tutoring company that tries to sell you a package of numerous sessions of expensive private tutoring based solely on their children’s PSAT scores.  Good tutoring companies will always allow you flexibility and should never lock you in to long term commitments.

It’s important for parents to understand that although SAT tutoring can be a very effective means of helping a student raise their SAT scores, in most cases it should not necessarily be the first action taken.  Oftentimes, students who have not yet taken a full length SAT under real testing conditions can get great results from an online SAT preparation program, workbooks or group classes.  These options are often much more affordable and should be considered before throwing down $100+/hr. for private one on one SAT tutoring.

SAT Tutoring Is A Great Resource, But It’s Not The Only Resource

There are many parents who believe that any problem can be solved by simply throwing money at it and this is not always the case.  Private one on one tutoring is a pricey option and for some students it may be the correct solution.  However, good tutoring companies offer many options when it comes to tutoring that will help such as classes or small groups.  Students often prefer participating in classes or small groups as it can be motivating to go through stressful situations in the comfort of their peers.

Online SAT preparation programs are often very affordable options that allow students to work at their own pace and in the comfort of their own home.  There is also less demand on parents and their busy schedules as they don’t have to worry about making sure their children have transportation to and from their sessions.

There Are Situations Where SAT Tutoring Is the Right Choice

• When all other options have been exhausted and the student has one last chance to raise their score to get into the college of their choice.

• The student does not feel comfortable or has anxiety about asking questions and trying to get an instructor’s attention in a classroom setting.

• The student has responded well to tutoring sessions in the past and needs the pressure of being accountable to someone in order to accomplish tasks.