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Brilliantprep

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this program prepare me for the PSAT 9/10?

Absolutely! Although this program is designed to prepare students for the SAT and ACT tests, it will also cover material that forms an essential portion of the PSAT 9/10. In other words, the math, grammar, and reading skills you learn in our classes will certainly be necessary for success on the PSAT!

Will the ACT and SAT instruction be separate?

No. We will be combining the ACT and SAT curricula in one comprehensive ten-week course. Our lessons will largely apply to both exams, with the exception of ACT science lessons. At the end of the course, students will take ACT and SAT practice tests to assess their growth over the ten-week period.

Does this program cover material in both the ACT and the SAT?

Yes! This course will go over the major topics found in both the ACT and the SAT. We will spend most of our sessions learning math, English grammar, and reading with an emphasis on vocabulary, as these three subjects are common in both exams. We will also introduce students to the science section of the ACT.

How much time must I commit to this program?

Each class will be once a week for two hours. You will also receive weekly homework assignments that will take around an hour to complete. Along with this, we highly recommend that you take practice tests or review the material we cover on your own. Although the amount of time that you commit to this program will ultimately be up to you, it is in your best interest to practice a little every day. By doing so, you will be setting yourself up for future reward.

Why should I begin the standardized test preparation process earlier than most students? How will this program help me in the future?

Sure, the SAT and ACT may seem far away right now, but they’ll be here before you know it. By starting test prep classes earlier, you will become better affiliated with the standardized testing process as well as the timing and question types associated with both the ACT and the SAT. The skills and strategies which you learn in our classes will give you an advantage when test day finally arrives. Below we have listed the three S’s—the three main reasons why jump starting preparation is the path to take.Self-Confidence: The more familiar you are with the content and the contexts of the SAT and ACT, the higher you will score on test day. Although you may begin our classes with a diagnostic test score that you’re not proud of, you will build confidence every time you use our strategies and techniques. By the end of the ten weeks, you will feel less doubtful and more prepared.Skills: Our classes will help you improve your exam scores, especially if you have been struggling with your test-taking skills. We will give you more practice using test taking strategies in order to make those skills second nature. That way, you will be able to complete both practice tests and actual tests efficiently yet accurately.Speed: Although accuracy is certainly an important aspect of every college prep exam, so is speed. Standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT have a lot of questions but not a lot of time to answer them. Time-management can often be a big challenge for students who are having trouble finishing the tests. In the 8th and 9th grade Primer course, we will teach you how to make the most of every minute of every test. After all, it is just as important to be quick as it is to be correct!

When does Brilliant Prep offer preparation for the ACT or SAT?

Brilliant Prep’s ACT and SAT Prep programs are catered for your wants and needs. This means that you have not one, but two choices for when to take Brilliant Prep classes:

  • If you prefer to take the December ACT or SAT, you should take the July through December classes.
  • If you prefer to take the March ACT or SAT, you should take the October through March classes.* * Look at the timeline below to learn more about the benefits and disadvantages of taking the tests at certain times.

How do I know whether to take the ACT or the SAT?

Well, that’s really up to you! This nifty chart will tell you some of the basics of both exams. No matter which one you choose, Brilliant Prep will be here to help you achieve success.ACT SAT Test Format English: 45 minutes, 75 questionsMath With a Calculator: 60 minutes, 60 questions Reading: 35 minutes, 40 questionsScience: 35 minutes, 40 questions*Background knowledge is not required for the science section.Reading: 65 minutes, 52 questionsMath Without a Calculator: 25 minutes, 20 questions Math With a Calculator: 55 minutes, 38 questionsWriting and Language: 35 minutes, 44 questionsQuestion Types Multiple Choice Reading and Writing and Language: Multiple choiceMath: Multiple choice and grid-ins Penalty for Wrong Answers? None! So, remember to answer every question! None! So, remember to answer every question! Scoring Section Scores: The English, Math, Reading, and Science scores range from 1-36.Composite Score: Your composite ACT score is the average of your scores on each section and will range from a 1-36. Section Scores: The Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing sections are each scored on a scale of 200-800.Composite Score: Your composite SAT score is the sum of the two section scores and will range from a 400-1600. Want More Information? http://www.act.org The College Board

And…Where does Brilliant Prep come into play?

You guessed it! Brilliant Prep is here to prepare 7th graders for the ACT or SAT so that they can achieve the best score possible.

What happens after I take the ACT or SAT?

A few weeks after taking the ACT or SAT, you will receive a score report that will show you not only your scores in every subject area but also a comparison of your scores to those of high schoolers and other seventh graders who also took the test. Depending on how high your scores are, you may be eligible for Duke TIP’s state or national recognition ceremonies and summer programs.

Why do I need to take the ACT or SAT exam? I’m only in middle school!

Have no fear! The ACT or SAT that you take in 7th grade is just a diagnostic test, meaning that your score isn’t going to go on your transcript or on your college applications. Your test scores will simply show Duke University where you stand in comparison to both high schoolers and your seventh grade peers. Although it may be intimidating to take a college entrance exam while in a room full of high schoolers, don’t feel stressed about getting a perfect score. Just try your best! You have nothing to lose.

Who is eligible to participate in this program?

Duke University’s 7th Grade Talent Search seeks high-achieving 7th graders (or 8th graders who skipped a grade) who outperform their peers in academic or aptitude exams. To be eligible for this program, students must first do one of the following:Score at or above the 95th percentile on an accepted grade-level standardized test or aptitude test Score at or above the 95th percentile on a state exam Score a 125 or above (full scale or composite) on an accepted IQ test If you want to know which tests qualify for eligibility into the Talent Search program, take a look at this link provided by Duke TIP.Once one of the above criteria has been met, students are then required to take an ACT or SAT exam without the essay writing section.

Will Brilliant Prep provide financial aid and scholarships?

No. However, we will guide you on the best ways to receive financial aid and scholarships from colleges (and even from your high school!). We will help you maximize your ability to gain money for college so that you can minimize the amount of money that leaves your pocket.

Along with teaching me how to create a college list and make the most of my college visitation experience, will Brilliant Prep also explain to me the different ways in which I can apply to college?

Of course! We understand that applying to college is a tedious and oftentimes confusing process, and we will walk you through the variety of ways (and apps) that you can use to apply for college, including the Common App, the Coalition App and so much more. And don’t worry! Rather than simply giving you a list of apps or application methods, we will teach you exactly how to use them so that you have no doubts when applying. Sounds like a good deal!

I want to apply to an Ivy League university. Will Brilliant Prep offer guidance on how to submit the best application possible?

Absolutely! No matter what university you wish to attend, we will teach you how to submit an exceptional application with strong recommendation letters, essays, and a resume chock-full of your activities.

Will I learn how to write a college application essay?

Yes! We will guide you on the best way to write an essay that truly stands out in the eyes of college admissions staff.

Along with in-class instruction and homework, is there anything else which students are required to do through your ACT and SAT prep classes?

We highly recommend that students follow our comprehensive study plan, which includes everything from downloading SAT/ACT apps with daily practice questions to reading editorials to improve vocabulary and reading skills. Students will discover that doing these things regularly will benefit them immensely on test day.

Do your SAT and ACT classes also prepare students for the essay portion of both exams?

Absolutely! We believe that all students should write the optional essay on both the ACT and the SAT. Thus, we teach students the tips and tricks needed to write the best essays possible. We frequently assign essays as homework and ask our students to send them to a renowned essay-grader, who provides students with scores and video feedback on where they can make changes. This way, students can fix their mistakes and track their improvement in their writing skills. As an added bonus, the writing skills that students learn in our classes also benefit them in English classes in school. It’s a win-win!

How much personalized attention does each student receive?

A lot! Classes are taught in a question and answer format and each student is called upon to participate. We are observant in class and watch as well as listen for indications that a student may be confused about or behind in a topic. In those cases, we initiate discussion and if needed, we offer to schedule a phone call outside of class to make a plan to help the student succeed. We also respond to student emails and text messages within 24 hours. After all, we want all of our students to shine!

Tell me about how your course is run.

We deliver our courses in two formats: instruction and testing. All instruction is done through live in-class discussions and explanations of questions from our provided workbooks. Testing is done via practice exams extracted from previously administered tests. Below is a brief overview of the three steps which our SAT and ACT prep courses follow:One Diagnostic Test: We use a diagnostic test as a tool to assess the student’s level of knowledge and test-taking abilities before our classes even begin. The diagnostic test score serves as a baseline measurement to analyze student progress through the course. That way, students can see how much they improved in just a matter of weeks!Learning and Instruction: We spend the bulk of our course teaching students material that will be tested on the ACT and SAT, providing them with test-taking strategies, and practicing with sections of real exams. We teach math in every session and rotate all other topics. We also give around one hour worth of homework each week.Practice, Practice, Practice: At the end of the ACT and SAT classes, students take practice tests each week so that they can compare their diagnostic test results to subsequent test scores and monitor their progress. The more times these tests are taken, the more comfortable students become with them and the better scores they achieve.

How do you assign homework for the classes?

We use two workbooks—Book A and Book B—for every course. We cover a little material from both books during each class, and we assign some math, reading, and/or writing homework from the books OR a practice essay at the end of each session.* In the following class we review the previous session’s homework assignment before moving on to new material.* Look below to learn more about our practice essay assignments.

How do you determine class size?

We keep our in-person classes at 12-15 students and our online classes at 8-10 students in order to give students the attention you are paying for and to assure them that they each get the opportunity to participate. We care about each student’s results —partly because their results are our reputation, and ultimately because our teaching hearts are rewarded when they succeed.

Do colleges prefer that students take the SAT/PSAT or the ACT?

All four-year universities accept both the SAT and the ACT. They are given a conversion table that allows them to compare applicant scores fairly. Nationwide, all institutions view PSAT National Merit scholar ratings as criteria for college acceptance and scholarship awards. Students cannot receive National Merit rankings without taking the PSAT and SAT. The SAT is unofficially “preferred” at schools in New York, Massachusetts, California, at Ivy Leagues, and at other high-caliber colleges. Meanwhile, the ACT is a required component of some states’ high school transcript records.In short, we recommend that every student prepare for and take both the SAT/PSAT and the ACT. Here are the two main reasons why:New Skill Set: By taking ACT and SAT prep courses, students naturally develop a combined skill set that maximizes potential scores on both tests. Studies, including one that followed a group of students through the preparation and 2014 testing process, indicate that of the students who took only the ACT prep course, 35% scored in the top 3%. On the other hand, of the students that took prep courses for both the SAT and ACT, 65% achieved scores in the top 3%. The students who took courses to prepare for both tests were the ones who achieved the highest scores.Scholarship Opportunities: The better test results achieved by taking both ACT and SAT prep courses increase scholarship opportunities (not just National Merit Scholarships!).

Is each class conducted in a “mixed-instruction” format?

Yes! Students (and adults) get bored if every assignment is a reading exercise, all classes are lectures, and every learning activity is the same. So, we regularly deliver information to our students in a “mix” that includes reading, lectures, discussions, and in-person consultations. We give immediate feedback to students on their performance on writing prompts and tests – this can occur in person or through email, phone calls, or WhatsApp messages.

How do you communicate with parents?

We create WhatsApp groups for each class, and both parents and students are welcome to join. We will post important announcements, links to resources, additional tips, and assignments on the group chat, so we highly recommend that you be a part of it. We also communicate individually with parents via email or phone as needed to assure that their student’s best interest is served.

Do you group students in classes based on their skill levels?

Because we provide each student with comprehensive and individualized instruction, we prefer to group students of different levels together. Over the years we have found that this reduces the self-consciousness of some students and the arrogance of others while stimulating natural, healthy competition. It also ensures that no assumptions are made about a student’s skill level and that all students can perform at their best of their ability. Moreover, we prefer to set up the teaching atmosphere in the same way as the testing atmosphere, in which students will not be sitting in skill level groups.

Do your ACT classes also prepare students for the essay portion of the exam?

Absolutely! We believe that all students should write the optional essay on the ACT. Thus, we teach students the tips and tricks needed to write the best essays possible. We frequently assign essays as homework and ask our students to send them to a renowned essay-grader, who provides students with scores and video feedback on where they can make changes. This way, students can fix their mistakes and track their improvement in their writing skills. As an added bonus, the writing skills that students learn in our classes also benefit them in English classes in school. It’s a win-win!

Along with in-class instruction and homework, is there anything else which students are required to do through your ACT and SAT prep classes?

We highly recommend that students follow our comprehensive study plan, which includes everything from downloading SAT/ACT apps with daily practice questions to reading editorials to improve vocabulary and reading skills. Students will discover that doing these things regularly will benefit them immensely on test day.

How much personalized attention does each student receive?

A lot! Classes are taught in a question and answer format and each student is called upon to participate. We are observant in class and watch as well as listen for indications that a student may be confused about or behind in a topic. In those cases, we initiate discussion and if needed, we offer to schedule a phone call outside of class to make a plan to help the student succeed. We also respond to student emails and text messages within 24 hours. After all, we want all of our students to shine!

Tell me about how your course is run.

We deliver our courses in two formats: instruction and testing. All instruction is done through live in-class discussions and explanations of questions from our provided workbooks. Testing is done via practice exams extracted from previously administered tests. Below is a brief overview of the three steps which our SAT and ACT prep courses follow:One Diagnostic Test: We use a diagnostic test as a tool to assess the student’s level of knowledge and test-taking abilities before our classes even begin. The diagnostic test score serves as a baseline measurement to analyze student progress through the course. That way, students can see how much they improved in just a matter of weeks!Learning and Instruction: We spend the bulk of our course teaching students material that will be tested on the ACT and SAT, providing them with test-taking strategies, and practicing with sections of real exams. We teach math in every session and rotate all other topics. We also give around one hour worth of homework each week.Practice, Practice, Practice: At the end of the ACT and SAT classes, students take practice tests each week so that they can compare their diagnostic test results to subsequent test scores and monitor their progress. The more times these tests are taken, the more comfortable students become with them and the better scores they achieve.

How do you assign homework for the classes?

We use two workbooks—Book A and Book B—for every course. We cover a little material from both books during each class, and we assign some math, reading, and/or writing homework from the books OR a practice essay at the end of each session.* In the following class we review the previous session’s homework assignment before moving on to new material.* Look below to learn more about our practice essay assignments.

How do you determine class size?

We keep our in-person classes at 12-15 students and our online classes at 8-10 students in order to give students the attention you are paying for and to assure them that they each get the opportunity to participate. We care about each student’s results —partly because their results are our reputation, and ultimately because our teaching hearts are rewarded when they succeed.

Is each class conducted in a “mixed-instruction” format?

Yes! Students (and adults) get bored if every assignment is a reading exercise, all classes are lectures, and every learning activity is the same. So, we regularly deliver information to our students in a “mix” that includes reading, lectures, discussions, and in-person consultations. We give immediate feedback to students on their performance on writing prompts and tests – this can occur in person or through email, phone calls, or WhatsApp messages.

How do you communicate with parents?

We create WhatsApp groups for each class, and both parents and students are welcome to join. We will post important announcements, links to resources, additional tips, and assignments on the group chat, so we highly recommend that you be a part of it. We also communicate individually with parents via email or phone as needed to assure that their student’s best interest is served.

Do you group students in classes based on their skill levels?

Because we provide each student with comprehensive and individualized instruction, we prefer to group students of different levels together. Over the years we have found that this reduces the self-consciousness of some students and the arrogance of others while stimulating natural, healthy competition. It also ensures that no assumptions are made about a student’s skill level and that all students can perform at their best of their ability. Moreover, we prefer to set up the teaching atmosphere in the same way as the testing atmosphere, in which students will not be sitting in skill level groups.

Will Brilliant Prep provide financial aid and scholarships?

No. However, we will guide you on the best ways to receive financial aid and scholarships from colleges (and even from your high school!). We will help you maximize your ability to gain money for college so that you can minimize the amount of money that leaves your pocket.

Along with teaching me how to create a college list and make the most of my college visitation experience, will Brilliant Prep also explain to me the different ways in which I can apply to college?

Of course! We understand that applying to college is a tedious and oftentimes confusing process, and we will walk you through the variety of ways (and apps) that you can use to apply for college, including the Common App, the Coalition App and so much more. And don’t worry! Rather than simply giving you a list of apps or application methods, we will teach you exactly how to use them so that you have no doubts when applying. Sounds like a good deal!

I want to apply to an Ivy League university. Will Brilliant Prep offer guidance on how to submit the best application possible?

Absolutely! No matter what university you wish to attend, we will teach you how to submit an exceptional application with strong recommendation letters, essays, and a resume chock-full of your activities.

Will I learn how to write a college application essay?

Yes! We will guide you on the best way to write an essay that truly stands out in the eyes of college admissions staff.

Along with in-class instruction and homework, is there anything else which students are required to do through your ACT and SAT prep classes?

We highly recommend that students follow our comprehensive study plan, which includes everything from downloading SAT/ACT apps with daily practice questions to reading editorials to improve vocabulary and reading skills. Students will discover that doing these things regularly will benefit them immensely on test day.

Do your SAT and ACT classes also prepare students for the essay portion of both exams?

Absolutely! We believe that all students should write the optional essay on both the ACT and the SAT. Thus, we teach students the tips and tricks needed to write the best essays possible. We frequently assign essays as homework and ask our students to send them to a renowned essay-grader, who provides students with scores and video feedback on where they can make changes. This way, students can fix their mistakes and track their improvement in their writing skills. As an added bonus, the writing skills that students learn in our classes also benefit them in English classes in school. It’s a win-win!

How much personalized attention does each student receive?

A lot! Classes are taught in a question and answer format and each student is called upon to participate. We are observant in class and watch as well as listen for indications that a student may be confused about or behind in a topic. In those cases, we initiate discussion and if needed, we offer to schedule a phone call outside of class to make a plan to help the student succeed. We also respond to student emails and text messages within 24 hours. After all, we want all of our students to shine!

Tell me about how your course is run.

We deliver our courses in two formats: instruction and testing. All instruction is done through live in-class discussions and explanations of questions from our provided workbooks. Testing is done via practice exams extracted from previously administered tests. Below is a brief overview of the three steps which our SAT and ACT prep courses follow:One Diagnostic Test: We use a diagnostic test as a tool to assess the student’s level of knowledge and test-taking abilities before our classes even begin. The diagnostic test score serves as a baseline measurement to analyze student progress through the course. That way, students can see how much they improved in just a matter of weeks!Learning and Instruction: We spend the bulk of our course teaching students material that will be tested on the ACT and SAT, providing them with test-taking strategies, and practicing with sections of real exams. We teach math in every session and rotate all other topics. We also give around one hour worth of homework each week.Practice, Practice, Practice: At the end of the ACT and SAT classes, students take practice tests each week so that they can compare their diagnostic test results to subsequent test scores and monitor their progress. The more times these tests are taken, the more comfortable students become with them and the better scores they achieve.

How do you assign homework for the classes?

We use two workbooks—Book A and Book B—for every course. We cover a little material from both books during each class, and we assign some math, reading, and/or writing homework from the books OR a practice essay at the end of each session.* In the following class we review the previous session’s homework assignment before moving on to new material.* Look below to learn more about our practice essay assignments.

How do you determine class size?

We keep our in-person classes at 12-15 students and our online classes at 8-10 students in order to give students the attention you are paying for and to assure them that they each get the opportunity to participate. We care about each student’s results —partly because their results are our reputation, and ultimately because our teaching hearts are rewarded when they succeed.

Do colleges prefer that students take the SAT/PSAT or the ACT?

All four-year universities accept both the SAT and the ACT. They are given a conversion table that allows them to compare applicant scores fairly. Nationwide, all institutions view PSAT National Merit scholar ratings as criteria for college acceptance and scholarship awards. Students cannot receive National Merit rankings without taking the PSAT and SAT. The SAT is unofficially “preferred” at schools in New York, Massachusetts, California, at Ivy Leagues, and at other high-caliber colleges. Meanwhile, the ACT is a required component of some states’ high school transcript records.In short, we recommend that every student prepare for and take both the SAT/PSAT and the ACT. Here are the two main reasons why:New Skill Set: By taking ACT and SAT prep courses, students naturally develop a combined skill set that maximizes potential scores on both tests. Studies, including one that followed a group of students through the preparation and 2014 testing process, indicate that of the students who took only the ACT prep course, 35% scored in the top 3%. On the other hand, of the students that took prep courses for both the SAT and ACT, 65% achieved scores in the top 3%. The students who took courses to prepare for both tests were the ones who achieved the highest scores.Scholarship Opportunities: The better test results achieved by taking both ACT and SAT prep courses increase scholarship opportunities (not just National Merit Scholarships!).

Is each class conducted in a “mixed-instruction” format?

Yes! Students (and adults) get bored if every assignment is a reading exercise, all classes are lectures, and every learning activity is the same. So, we regularly deliver information to our students in a “mix” that includes reading, lectures, discussions, and in-person consultations. We give immediate feedback to students on their performance on writing prompts and tests – this can occur in person or through email, phone calls, or WhatsApp messages.

How do you communicate with parents?

We create WhatsApp groups for each class, and both parents and students are welcome to join. We will post important announcements, links to resources, additional tips, and assignments on the group chat, so we highly recommend that you be a part of it. We also communicate individually with parents via email or phone as needed to assure that their student’s best interest is served.

Do you group students in classes based on their skill levels?

Because we provide each student with comprehensive and individualized instruction, we prefer to group students of different levels together. Over the years we have found that this reduces the self-consciousness of some students and the arrogance of others while stimulating natural, healthy competition. It also ensures that no assumptions are made about a student’s skill level and that all students can perform at their best of their ability. Moreover, we prefer to set up the teaching atmosphere in the same way as the testing atmosphere, in which students will not be sitting in skill level groups.

What are the refund and guarantee policies?

We do not give refunds or offer score guarantees. However, if students or parents are dissatisfied with their results, we work with them to address their concerns and support them through their final test.

Do you also help with the college admissions process?

Of course! We offer a College Admissions Guidance in-person bootcamp to work with students on their essay-writing skills, financial aid opportunities, resume building, and more! Additionally, through our College Essay Offering program, students can obtain valuable advice on how to strengthen their supplemental essays and their flagship essay in an individualized, feedback-oriented setting. If students are looking to explore our ACT and SAT prep offerings as well, then we would recommend that they sign up for our ACT & SAT + College Admissions Guidance package, which merges test prep with college advice to create one comprehensive, all-inclusive program. In short, we have a variety of college admissions programs designed to accommodate all kinds of students. After all, our dedication is for your higher education!

Is there a program that combines SAT and ACT prep?

Yes! We offer a Combined ACT & SAT program as well as an ACT & SAT + College Admissions Guidance program. Both programs are designed for high school sophomores who are serious about preparing for the ACT and SAT. However, students starting later in the test prep process may choose to focus on one test rather than both, so we offer SAT or ACT only options as well.

Do you offer programs for seventh and eighth graders to get a head start on their SAT and ACT prep?

Currently, we do not offer SAT or ACT prep classes for seventh or eighth graders. However, we do offer one-on-one tutoring for middle schoolers who are aiming to excel academically or who would like extra guidance in any of their core classes. To learn more about our tutoring options and flexibility, visit this link.

Do you offer free private tutoring to students in your in-person SAT/ACT prep classes?

No. However, students who would like private tutoring can pay an additional fee for one-on-one tutoring sessions with us.

What are the dos and don’ts of your in-person classes?

Do…Don’t…
Arrive to class five to ten minutes before it starts.Arrive late to class. Punctuality is key!
Avoid missing class. We offer makeup classes, but we strongly prefer that you attend the session time that you signed up for!Skip our office hours if you still have questions that need answering!
Complete your homework assignments before class starts.Work on your homework while class is going on. You are responsible for completing your assignments on time!

Do you assign homework?

Yes! No matter the class, we assign some kind of Math, Reading, and/or Grammar homework to keep our students in tune with core concepts. We always review assignments during the following session and allow for student questions and collaboration. We believe that at-home study is just as important as in-class instruction because it allows students to reinforce their knowledge of commonly tested topics.

Do you cover strategies or content?

Both! A solid grasp of the content (Math, Grammar, etc.) as well as specific strategies for beating your particular test are both critical to scoring high on the SAT and the ACT. Some students might need more focus on content, while others might have the content down and thus need more strategy review. Either way, we cover both for all students!

Do you have a YouTube channel?

As a matter of fact, we do! From SAT Reading playlists to an ACT English Bootcamp, we have hundreds of (free!) videos to assist you throughout high school. Our channel is constantly growing with new webinars, practice problems, Q&A sessions, and more! Check it out here: https://youtube.com/c/brilliantprep

How does program payment work?

It depends on the course offering that you choose. For our video courses, for example, we ask that you make a one-time payment, whereas for our tutoring sessions we offer a little more flexibility. On the contrary, for our in-person courses parents are required to pay in two installments: one just before the program starts and one during the second cycle of the program (ie. the SAT part of the Combined ACT & SAT Prep program). If you have any questions about course payment, contact us and we will work with you.

How does program pricing work?

Once you click the “Get Started” button at the top right corner of our website and go through the enrollment process, you will be able to locate the prices of each of our programs prior to making any payments. We accept checks that are hand-delivered to our office, credit card payment through our online portal, or direct bank transfers to Brilliant Prep via Zelle. If you have concerns regarding course pricing or payment, contact us and we will be happy to work with you.

How are you different as compared to your competitors?

Unlike our competitors, we support students through every stage of their test prep journey. Students who complete our courses gain access to hundreds of our content-based and strategy-based videos as well as detailed answer explanations from our online library. In our classes, we frequently give pop quizzes and tests to assess student progress, and we teach using material from our handcrafted, comprehensive workbooks. In addition, we provide our students with a multitude of practice tests, weekly workshops, and additional resources to alleviate their stresses and maximize their confidence. Through not only our test prep classes but also our college admissions guidance, we help each and every one of our students achieve their goals.

When do your classes start?

Our group classes typically begin in July, August, September, and January, and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Our tutoring sessions and video courses, on the other hand, begin whenever you register for them – your starting date is entirely up to you!

What is the policy for making up a missed class or practice test?

If possible, we prefer that students avoid missing class. Although we do offer makeup classes, this can result in uneven class sizes and less time spent per student. However, we do understand that students may occasionally experience schedule conflicts, and if they let us know about their absence in advance, we can arrange for them to attend a different session that week. If not, students are always able to watch a recording of the session they missed by visiting learn.brilliantprep.com and logging in with their credentials.As for practice tests, though we do not offer a makeup option, we do provide all students with a copy of each test so that they can take it on their own time if needed. With that being said, we highly recommend that your students attend our live practice tests so that they can reap the benefits of a simulated testing environment.

Are the instructors easily accessible to answer our questions?

Absolutely! You can contact us through email, and we will try our best to respond as soon as possible. Each instructor also has weekly virtual office hours during which both in-person and virtual students are welcome to get clarification on the weekly material or ask general questions. Parents who have questions about the program may join in during our office hours as well!We understand that the test prep and college prep processes are two very complex (and oftentimes confusing!) tasks, and we are here to help you every step of the way!

How much improvement do you see in your students?

This is a difficult question to answer because when it comes to test prep, one size doesn’t fit all. Because all students start off with a distinct knowledge base and diagnostic test score, some experience a more significant score increase than do their peers. For instance, we have had students begin our courses with an SAT test score of 1100 and improve by nearly 300 points, while others have started with a 1400 and have improved by around 100 to 200 points. What we can guarantee, however, is that if your child makes a conscious effort to learn our material, ask questions, and practice daily, her or she will be able to succeed.We believe that all our students are capable of growing and improving every day. If they follow our advice and work both hard and smart, they can achieve their target scores.

I’m thinking of preparing for the ACT/SAT, but…where do I start?

The test prep process can certainly be overwhelming, and you may be wondering when and how to begin. Here’s what we have to say:The When: When it comes to test prep, earlier is better than later! Despite that every student is different, we generally believe that beginning test prep at the start of your tenth grade year is the best way to go. That way, you can benefit from a full year of learning and practice tests and still have plenty of time to take the real deal. However, some students feel more comfortable starting test prep during their freshman year, while others start at the inception of their junior year. In the end, what matters most is that you create a schedule that works best for you.The How: The best thing that you can do when starting test prep is do your research. At Brilliant Prep, we offer a variety of programs (as well as video courses!) that are catered toward different students’ needs. We advise that you and your parents work together to decide which type of test prep program is best suited for your schedule. Then, you can proceed to signing up for a class. Once you do that, we will communicate with you regularly to help you ease your way into the test prep process.

What platform do you use for your virtual classes?

We are currently using Zoom for our virtual classes, tutoring sessions, and office hours. This platform allows us to share our screens and cameras with our students, and it also features a chat box, a hand-raising option, and much more.

Do I need a special device to attend live virtual classes?

No! You can attend live classes from the comfort of any location, and with any device! Mobile phones, tablets, desktops, and laptops are all acceptable, but we strongly recommend desktops or laptops due to their large screen size and compatibility with our online platforms.

Do you offer virtual classes, in-person classes, or both?

As of September 2021, all of our programs are virtual. However, as the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 continue to change, we hope to bring back our in-person and hybrid options as well. Whether students choose to take the online, in-person, or hybrid route, they will have complete access to all of our programs, from group lessons to one-on-one tutoring.

What is the PSAT/NMSQT®, and should I take it?

The PSAT/NMSQT®, also known as the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is taken by most students during October of their junior year of high school. Like the SAT, it has four sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math – No Calculator, and Math – Calculator. However, unlike the SAT, the PSAT not only has fewer questions in almost every section, but it also is mainly important for aspiring National Merit scholars. In other words, while the majority of high school students take the SAT, far fewer students take the PSAT because PSAT scores are not required on college applications.We recommend that you take the PSAT if you want to qualify to become a National Merit Semifinalist and receive a National Merit Scholarship. Even if you don’t become a National Merit Semifinalist, you still have the opportunity to become Commended, and that itself is a huge feat! Taking the PSAT will only help you, so we strongly encourage you to give it a try. And who knows? In the end, you may get a substantial college scholarship!If you want to learn more about the PSAT/NMSQT®, check out the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s official website.

Should I take AP exams?

The answer – it depends. It depends on where you want to go to college, what you plan to study in college, how much time you can commit to test prep in high school, and so much more. If you want to earn college credit while you’re still in high school, we highly recommend that you consider taking AP classes. Although these classes generally come with a heavy time commitment, the benefits far outweigh the pitfalls. Not only can you further highlight your academic strengths on your college applications, but you will also gain valuable skills needed in a collegiate environment. Plus, most colleges give you course credits for passing the end-of-year exams! It’s a win-win-win!

Will taking the SAT help me more than taking the ACT?

Almost all colleges accept either an SAT or an ACT score and do not prefer one over the other. With that being said, if you have enough time to prepare for both the SAT and the ACT, then we suggest that you take both. This way, you have more options when deciding which score(s) to send to colleges. Furthermore, as both tests are fundamentally different in their form and structure, you may find that you are significantly better at one over the other. You won’t find out unless you give each test a shot!

When should I start SAT/ACT prep?

When it comes to test prep, earlier is better than later! Despite that every student is different, we generally believe that beginning test prep at the start of your tenth grade year is the best way to go. That way, you can benefit from a full year of learning and practice tests and still have plenty of time to take the real deal.Some students feel more comfortable starting test prep during their freshman year, while others start at the inception of their junior year. In the end, what matters most is that you create a schedule that works best for you.

How many times can I take the SAT/ACT?

Although there is no limit to how many times you can take the SAT or ACT, we generally advise that you take each of them around three or fewer times. After all, if you can achieve your target score within your first three tries, then you’re done! Also, keep in mind that several colleges practice superscoring, meaning that rather than looking at one test as a whole, admissions officers look at how you performed on each section of exams you took on different dates. If your dream school offers superscoring, then you may consider taking the SAT or ACT fewer times.

Along with in-class instruction and homework, is there anything else which students are required to do through your ACT and SAT prep classes?

We highly recommend that students follow our comprehensive study plan, which includes everything from downloading SAT/ACT apps with daily practice questions to reading editorials to improve vocabulary and reading skills. Students will discover that doing these things regularly will benefit them immensely on test day.

Do your SAT and ACT classes also prepare students for the essay portion of both exams?

Absolutely! We believe that all students should write the optional essay on both the ACT and the SAT. Thus, we teach students the tips and tricks needed to write the best essays possible. We frequently assign essays as homework and ask our students to send them to a renowned essay-grader, who provides students with scores and video feedback on where they can make changes. This way, students can fix their mistakes and track their improvement in their writing skills. As an added bonus, the writing skills that students learn in our classes also benefit them in English classes in school. It’s a win-win!

How much personalized attention does each student receive?

A lot! Classes are taught in a question and answer format and each student is called upon to participate. We are observant in class and watch as well as listen for indications that a student may be confused about or behind in a topic. In those cases, we initiate discussion and if needed, we offer to schedule a phone call outside of class to make a plan to help the student succeed. We also respond to student emails and text messages within 24 hours. After all, we want all of our students to shine!

Tell me about how your course is run.

We deliver our courses in two formats: instruction and testing. All instruction is done through live in-class discussions and explanations of questions from our provided workbooks. Testing is done via practice exams extracted from previously administered tests. Below is a brief overview of the three steps which our SAT and ACT prep courses follow:One Diagnostic Test: We use a diagnostic test as a tool to assess the student’s level of knowledge and test-taking abilities before our classes even begin. The diagnostic test score serves as a baseline measurement to analyze student progress through the course. That way, students can see how much they improved in just a matter of weeks!Learning and Instruction: We spend the bulk of our course teaching students material that will be tested on the ACT and SAT, providing them with test-taking strategies, and practicing with sections of real exams. We teach math in every session and rotate all other topics. We also give around one hour worth of homework each week.Practice, Practice, Practice: At the end of the ACT and SAT classes, students take practice tests each week so that they can compare their diagnostic test results to subsequent test scores and monitor their progress. The more times these tests are taken, the more comfortable students become with them and the better scores they achieve.

How do you assign homework for the classes?

We use two workbooks—Book A and Book B—for every course. We cover a little material from both books during each class, and we assign some math, reading, and/or writing homework from the books OR a practice essay at the end of each session.* In the following class we review the previous session’s homework assignment before moving on to new material.* Look below to learn more about our practice essay assignments.

How do you determine class size?

We keep our in-person classes at 12-15 students and our online classes at 8-10 students in order to give students the attention you are paying for and to assure them that they each get the opportunity to participate. We care about each student’s results —partly because their results are our reputation, and ultimately because our teaching hearts are rewarded when they succeed.

Is each class conducted in a “mixed-instruction” format?

Yes! Students (and adults) get bored if every assignment is a reading exercise, all classes are lectures, and every learning activity is the same. So, we regularly deliver information to our students in a “mix” that includes reading, lectures, discussions, and in-person consultations. We give immediate feedback to students on their performance on writing prompts and tests – this can occur in person or through email, phone calls, or WhatsApp messages.

How do you communicate with parents?

We create WhatsApp groups for each class, and both parents and students are welcome to join. We will post important announcements, links to resources, additional tips, and assignments on the group chat, so we highly recommend that you be a part of it. We also communicate individually with parents via email or phone as needed to assure that their student’s best interest is served.

Do you group students in classes based on their skill levels?

Because we provide each student with comprehensive and individualized instruction, we prefer to group students of different levels together. Over the years we have found that this reduces the self-consciousness of some students and the arrogance of others while stimulating natural, healthy competition. It also ensures that no assumptions are made about a student’s skill level and that all students can perform at their best of their ability. Moreover, we prefer to set up the teaching atmosphere in the same way as the testing atmosphere, in which students will not be sitting in skill level groups.

I don’t need a full tutoring program, but I would like to meet with you occasionally to ask questions, get tips, build a study plan, etc. Can we do that?

Sure! Some students don’t want or need a comprehensive tutoring program for the SAT, ACT, or academic subjects, but they would benefit from occasional guidance, instruction, and review with us. You might benefit from extra help if you

  • are self-studying for the SAT or ACT and need some help reviewing tests and practice problems that are giving you trouble.
  • want a custom Study Plan for the SAT, ACT, or other tests.
  • would like to “check in” with a tutor occasionally to review your progress and suggest next steps.
  • are too busy with academics, sports, and extracurriculars for regular tutoring sessions but could benefit from intermittent coaching.
  • need help completing your school homework, or studying for an upcoming test, but don’t need a full-time tutor.
  • would like feedback on an essay you’re writing or a project you’re working on.
  • have questions about the college admissions process or need advice on college essays. Self-motivated students, student-athletes, homeschoolers, students on a budget — we’ve worked with all kinds of students who need extra support, and we’d love to help you out too! Contact us and we can discuss options.

What books and study materials do I need?

Depending on the subject taught, you’ll need

  • A webcam or built-in/external microphone, only for the audio (no video required on your side)
  • Access to Brilliant Prep’s courses (free as described above)
  • Official SAT/ACT/other prep guide (~$20)

How does scheduling work?

We prefer to set up a regular schedule, but we do have some flexibility week-to-week. We’ll work that out once we start working together. We have availability throughout the week and weekends.Our tutors live in different time zones, so we will coordinate our schedules to ensure our meeting times work for both of us.

How much do your students improve?

Student improvements depend on so many factors that a one-size-fits-all answer or a blanket score “guarantee” would be inappropriate. Check out a sample of feedback we’ve received from students, members, and parents. You can also get a sense of our teaching style and breadth of knowledge by viewing our free courses or browsing our Youtube channel. Many students have increased their scores just by using the video, textual, and practice resources offered in our courses; students who combine tutoring with our materials see the best results.

Where do we meet? How do the online sessions work?

In most cases, we’ll meet online through Blackboard Collaborate or Skype. Not only will we interact by voice, but also the tutor will be able to share his or her computer screen in order to write on a “virtual blackboard” during the session. This audiovisual pairing will make our sessions feel like we’re in the same room.For Blackboard Collaborate, you will not need any special software. We will provide you with a link to a private online teaching room. This is the option we use with most students. For Skype, you will need to create a free account and send us your contact information.

How does payment work?

You will be billed after each week of sessions. Payments can be made with credit card or Paypal. Note that you are NOT charged for prep work we do outside of session, including:

  • Crafting your weekly study plan.
  • Updating our shared folder (see below) so that everyone – tutor, student, parents, guardians – can keep track of progress.
  • Answering questions by email.
  • Creating worksheets, practice tests, and practice problems that we customize solely for our tutoring students. You can modify or cancel our tutoring relationship at any time. You are not locked in to any contract.
Note: All sales are final. We do not offer any money-back guarantee or refunds for our tutoring services, but we will work with you to make things right if you are unsatisfied for any reason.

How many hours of tutoring will I need? What schedule do you recommend?

We don’t run all our students through a cookie-cutter curriculum; instead, we design an individualized program based on their needs and goals. Therefore, we can’t give a blanket statement about how many hours of tutoring you might need until we get more information about your current score, score goals, and time available before the next test. However, we generally recommend one of the following basic schedules:Two sessions per week. This is the standard approach we advise for students who want an overview of the SAT or ACT in a reasonable time-frame (typically more than three months).Three sessions per week. Students who have less time to prepare for their test (less than 2 months) or want a more intensive preparation schedule would benefit from more frequent sessions.One session per week. This option is best suited for students who have plenty of time until their next test (greater than 6 months) or who need help on only one section of the test. This is also a great choice for younger students (8th, 9th, 10th graders) who want to get a head start on preparation but don’t want to commit to a full program just yet.Extra help (on-demand). If you don’t want or need a comprehensive tutoring program but would benefit from occasional guidance, instruction, and review with us, then you can book sessions as often as you need. This option is best for students who are self-studying, students too busy for regular tutoring, or students on a budget.We do offer other configurations of sessions and lengths of sessions in special circumstances, so contact us and we can discuss what works best for you.

Do you assign homework?

Yes! No matter the class, we assign some kind of Math, Reading, and/or Grammar homework to keep our students in tune with core concepts. We always review assignments during the following session and allow for student questions and collaboration. We believe that at-home study is just as important as in-class instruction because it allows students to reinforce their knowledge of commonly tested topics.

Do you cover strategies or content?

Both! A solid grasp of the content (Math, Grammar, etc.) as well as specific strategies for beating your particular test are both critical to scoring high on the SAT and the ACT. Some students might need more focus on content, while others might have the content down and thus need more strategy review. Either way, we cover both for all students!