So far, the College Board has released only five practice tests for the redesigned tests—one PSAT and four SATs. The PSAT can be found here, and the SATs can be found here. There are also a handful of SAT practice questions here. Students who want more math practice will find the Official SAT Math Subject Test guide helpful. The Writing and Language portion of the new (P)SAT is very similar to the English portion of the ACT. You can download a free ACT here, and you can find the Official ACT guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about our test prep programs, tutoring, or scheduling? You’re not alone. Our FAQ page covers the most common things parents and students want to know, from course details to registration logistics. We’ve put everything in one place to make it easy for you to find the answers you need. Don’t see an answer to your question? Contact our office and we can help with any unanswered questions and to provide the guidance you need.
- PSAT
What practice materials are available for the (P)SAT?
- ACT
What calculators are allowed at the official ACT?
Click here to see the complete list of approved SAT calculators. The new SAT and PSAT have one “calculator permitted” section and one “calculator not permitted” section.
- PSAT, SAT, Test Prep, Administration
Do I need to register for a practice test review?
Yes. All students who plan to attend a practice test review must register in order for us to have adequate seating. Registration links are sent via e-mail to all enrolled students as new practice test reviews are added.
- Tutors/Teachers
What can I expect from the private tutoring sessions?
Personally tailored reviews of the student’s drafts and guidance from instructors who have helped many students through the application process and seen them succeed. After three private tutoring sessions, your student can expect to come away with a polished essay ready to submit to colleges! Need help with supplemental writings? We can help with those in your sessions too!
- Test Prep, College Admission, Tutors/Teachers
What can I expect from the workshop?
An overview of college entrance essay “dos and don’ts” as well as example essays that have gotten students into University of Texas, Princeton, Wellesley, and more. We’ll discuss what topics to consider, and which one’s to stray away from. Come prepared to take notes and start brainstorming!
- Writing, College Admission
Who should attend a college essay workshop?
Rising seniors who are ready to work on college entrance essays!
- Writing, College Admission
What is the college essay workshop?
The college essay workshop is a special package offered every summer consisting of one 90-minute group seminar and three, one-hour private sessions to help students prepare college entrance essays.
- ACT, Administration
Is official test registration included in my More Than A Teacher registration?
No. We are not allowed to register students for official tests.
- PSAT
When is the PSAT offered?
The PSAT is offered once a year, around the second week of October. Students should check with their school counselor to make sure they are registered for the PSAT.
- PSAT, Scholarships
Who qualifies as National Merit finalists?
Juniors with PSAT scores at or near the top 1% of PSAT scores in the state may qualify for National Merit Semifinalist. In order to become finalists, semifinalists must demonstrate academic strength via their GPA, submit a qualifying SAT or ACT score, get letters of recommendation, and write essays per National Merit’s specifications. All required documentation must be submitted within the time frame required by National Merit. Students who miss more than 10-15 questions on the entire test are unlikely to qualify for semifinalist or finalist but may still receive recognition. Read our blog, Understanding the National Merit Scholarship Process, to learn more.
- PSAT, Writing, Scholarships
Who should attend a National Merit Writing & Language Review?
Juniors who have come through our PSAT classroom program and will be taking an official PSAT test in October should attend a National Merit Writing and Language Review. This optional class is especially helpful for high achieving students who are hoping to earn National Merit.
Students who have not been through our PSAT classroom program, and students who have already taken their junior year PSAT should not attend this optional class.
- Writing
Why isn’t the essay class available during summer sessions?
Summer classes are designed to prepare rising juniors for the PSAT in October. There is no essay on the PSAT, so we wait until after students have taken the PSAT to teach the essay portion of the SAT. Students who take summer classes will be notified when essay classes are available in the fall.
- Writing
What is covered in the essay class?
A comprehensive overview of what makes a great SAT essay, an in-class essay exercise, and a thoroughly reviewed SAT essay with tips on how to improve your score.
- Administration
Can I make up a 3 hour class using a 2 hour class?
No. If you normally take 3 hour classes, a 2 hour class will not cover the information needed to fulfill your class schedule. You may, however, take two 2 hour classes to make up one 3 hour class. Call us for details 512-453-7272
- Administration
Can I make up a 2 hour class using a 3 hour class?
Yes. If you normally take 2 hour classes, you will see repeated information in our 3 hour classes due to the organization of the classes.
- Administration
How many make up classes can I attend?
You may attend as many make up classes as you need! With our returning privileges, you may take and retake as many of our classes as you’d like from various schedules. Please see the note about registering. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at 512-453-7272!
- Administration
Do I have to register?
As long as a class schedule does not say “limited seating available,” “registration closed,” or “contact office,” you may attend any class as a make up without calling ahead or registering. Please call if you see any of the aforementioned notices. We’re willing to work with you to find a class that works with your schedule!
- PSAT, SAT
What calculators are allowed at the official PSAT/SAT?
Students may use their own approved calculator on test day or take advantage of the Desmos graphing calculator built directly into the testing application. An identical version can be found here.
To view a complete list of approved calculators for the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, and PSAT 10, click here.
- Administration
Can I make up a class I missed?
Yes! Find a make up class here: https://www.morethanateacher.com/find-a-make-up-class/ You can also give our office a call at 512-453-7272 for more make up class options.
- Test Prep
When should I attend a practice test review?
Practice Test Reviews are offered occasionally throughout the year. It is ideal to attend a practice test review as closely following your practice test as possible. Practice test review dates and registration links are emailed to all enrolled students as they are added to our calendar.
- Test Prep
Who can benefit from Practice Test Reviews?
Practice Test Reviews are only offered to students currently enrolled in a MTAT class. Enrolled students will receive notification of our practice test reviews as they are added to our calendar.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
What are Practice Test Reviews?
Practice Test Reviews are free, open forum time slots that provide MTAT students with the opportunity to ask teachers questions about a recent practice test or current test prep class on a first-come, first-served basis. These sessions are a great way to get additional assistance at no extra cost to you! Students must come prepared with questions or materials to review from a practice test or MTAT test prep course. Practice test reviews are offered occasionally throughout the year, usually leading up to official test dates. We encourage you to take advantage of these offerings at our Westlake and North Austin offices. Schedules and registration links are emailed to all enrolled students as they are added to our calendar.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
When will I know my score?
Students will grade their practice tests immediately after the test. Being aware of how a test is graded is an essential piece of the testing strategy.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
When should students take a practice test?
Now! Practice tests benefit students at every stage of test prep. Take one before you start your class or private tutoring to have a baseline score and something to go over with your tutor. Take one during your class to gauge your improvement and recognize areas that need help. Take one after your class to see how far you’ve come. Sitting in on a proctored practice test also gives students insight into how the official test will feel and offers them an opportunity to overcome testing anxiety. We only require our classroom students to take one test during their class, but we want each student to take advantage of our unlimited practice tests!
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
How long is the practice test?
PSAT: 2 hours, 14 minutes
The PSAT consists of 4 sections (Two 32-minute Reading and Writing Modules and Two 32-minute Math Modules). You are given a 10-minute break after the 2nd section.
SAT: 2 hours, 14 minutes
The SAT consists of 4 multiple-choice sections (Two 32-minute Reading and Writing Modules and Two 32-minute Math Modules). You are given a 10-minute break after the 2nd section.
ACT: 3 hours
The ACT consists of 4 multiple-choice sections (45, 60, 35, and 35 minutes respectively). You are given a 10-minute break after the 2nd section. We do not offer the essay portion during our proctored exams. Students wishing to practice with the essay may complete the essay portion from home.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
Who will see my pratice test grade?
Only you, your parents, and our More Than A Teacher staff will see your practice test grades. Although we use retired PSAT, SAT, and ACTs, we do not release grades to anyone.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
What should students bring to the practice test?
Students should show up 10 minutes before the test starts with a calculator and sharpened pencils.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
Do I have to register for a practice test?
Yes. Click here to register for a practice test.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
When is the next practice test?
Click here to find a test that fits your schedule!
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
Do you proctor PSAT/SAT/ACT practice tests?
Yes! Click here to register for a test!
- Tutors/Teachers
Do I have to buy a tutoring package?
No!
- Tutors/Teachers
How do I schedule private tutoring?
Call our office Monday-Friday 10:00am-6:00pm to schedule all private tutoring! 512-453-7272
- Tutors/Teachers
What subjects do your tutors cover?
TEST PREP Tutoring
SAT Full Course
SAT Private Tutoring
ACT Full Course
ACT Private Tutoring
SAT Subject Tests
GRE
Duke TIP Program
SSAT
ISEE
TSI
ACADEMIC SUBJECTS Tutoring
Higher Level Math or Science
— includes all AP Courses, all Physics, Calculus and PreCalculus, Statistics, and Economics.
Basic Subjects
— includes English, History, Foreign Languages, Algebra I & II, Geometry, Biology, Chemistry, and other lower level non-AP courses.
EXTRAS
College Essay
College Advising
Study Skills
- Tutors/Teachers
Who can benefit from private tutoring?
Any student struggling or wanting to excel in academics or test prep! We offer a variety of services and discounted test prep tutoring for our classroom students. Call us now for details (512-453-7272)!
- Tutors/Teachers
What is a typical class size?
2-6
- Administration, Tutors/Teachers
What accommodations do you offer?
Please call our office (512-453-7272) if your student has been granted any testing accommodations by College Board or ACT and you would like to take a practice test. We will do our best to honor the same accommodations.
- Administration, Tutors/Teachers
How do students receive accommodations?
Contact your student’s counselor for help applying for accommodations on the PSAT, SAT, or ACT.
- Administration, Tutors/Teachers
How do I know if my student needs/has accomodations?
coming soon
- SAT, ACT
Are international students required to take the SAT or ACT?
Certain universities, depending on your intended major, require the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) in place of, or in addition to, an SAT or ACT. Please check with your prospective universities to find out details.
- ACT, Writing
Why should students take the ACT with the essay?
When registering, students are allowed to choose whether they would like to take the ACT with the essay portion or without. We believe that students should always register for the essay portion. If you apply to a school that requires an essay but you haven’t done an essay, then you will have to retake the WHOLE ACT, not just the essay portion. Similarly, ACT will not “super score” the essay, meaning that each time you retake the ACT you will also need to take the essay portion in order to have a score for it.
Click here to read what act.org has to say about the essay.
- PSAT
How do students register for the official PSAT?
From nationalmerit.org:
“Registration for the test is by high school rather than individual student. Interested students should see their counselor at the beginning of the school year to make arrangements to take the PSAT/NMSQT at the school in October.”
- PSAT
Can homeschool students take the PSAT?
From nationalmerit.org:
“Yes, but the test must be administered at a local high school or approved location. Contact the principal or guidance counselor well in advance of the test day to make arrangements to take the PSAT/NMSQT at that school.”
- PSAT, SAT, ACT
What materials do you use?
We provide both our own curriculum and a copy of one of the books below. These materials are included in the cost of the course. The manual we have developed includes test-taking strategies, review of content, and a series of quizzes and homework questions to improve your performance.
For our PSAT and SAT classes we use our own curriculum and the BlueBook app. All students registered for an SAT or PSAT class must must bring their own device and have downloaded the Bluebook App in advance. Please visit https://bluebook.collegeboard.org/students/approved-devices to view a list of approved devices compatible with the Bluebook Exams app.
For our ACT class we use ACT Inc.’s The Official ACT Prep Guide 2022-2023. Click here to learn more.
- SAT
What is a “good” SAT score?
The CollegeBoard defines benchmark scores for both the Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing sections of the SAT. Reaching these benchmarks means that a student has a “75 percent chance of earning at least a C in first-semester, credit-bearing college courses” (CollegeBoard) in related subjects. The College and Career-Readiness benchmark scores are 530 on the Math section and 480 on the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Section.
Reaching these benchmarks is a good start, however, most competitive schools require significantly higher scores. In general, it’s best to check with each school to which your student is applying to verify its score requirements. Click here to read more!
- Test Prep, Administration
How do students register for the GRE?
To register for the GRE, visit ETS. More Than a Teacher cannot register you for the official GRE.
- Test Prep, Administration
What makes your GRE prep better than your competitors’?
The real difference comes down to our teachers. Our teachers are the best in the industry! We don’t just hire people who ace the tests — our teachers are experienced educators skilled at breaking down the material in an accessible way, while still creating an upbeat learning environment. Better teachers mean better results.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
What if I change my test date or want to test again?
More Than A Teacher understands that life can get in the way. Sometimes a planned test date doesn’t work, you get sick on the day of your test, or you simply didn’t get the score you wanted. Given these realities, any student who takes one of our full courses is welcome to return at any time. As a return student, you may want to simply review the material, or perhaps spend a little more time on that one section you didn’t quite get. Just give us a call if you have already taken one of our courses and want to sit in on another, and we’ll help you find the best schedule we have available. We want to help you get the score you need, even if it takes a little extra time.
- PSAT, SAT, ACT, Test Prep
What materials do you recommend?
For GRE tutoring we use The Official Guide to the GRE revised General Test, written by the people who create the official test.
- Test Prep, Administration
What is a “good” GRE score?
An average score is about 151 for both Verbal and Math, though the average Math score is slightly higher. It’s best to check with each school to which you are applying to verify its score requirements. Please visit the official ETS website to learn more!
- ACT
What if a student misses the ACT registration deadline?
- ACT
How do students register for the ACT?
To register for the ACT, visit www.actstudent.org.
More Than a Teacher cannot register you for the official ACT.
- SAT
How do students register for the official SAT?
To register for the SAT visit College Board.
More Than a Teacher cannot register you for the official SAT.
- SAT
What if a student misses the SAT registration deadline?
Please note: The waitlist is not available for the 2023-2024 academic year.
If a student misses an SAT registration deadline, there is a late registration deadline available for an additional fee. Click here to view all registration deadlines.
Those who miss the late registration deadline can request waitlist testing. To view SAT waitlist requirements and paperwork, click here.
- SAT
What should students bring to the SAT test?
Test Day Checklist
– Your Admission Ticket
– Photo ID (click here to view acceptable photo IDs)
– Two no. 2 pencils with soft erasers (Do NOT bring mechanical pencils!)
– Calculator (click here to learn about acceptable and unacceptable calculators)
– Layers (we recommend wearing layers of clothing in case the room gets cold or warm)
– Watch (make sure your watch does NOT have an audible alarm!)
– Snack (there will be a break, so feel free to bring a small snack and some water)
What NOT to Bring
– Cell phones (click here to learn more about the SAT test Cell Phone Policy)
– BlackBerrys
– PDAs
– iPods and iPads
– MP3 players
– Laptops, notebooks, tablets or any other personal computing device
– Timers of any type
– Cameras or other photographic equipment
– Any device capable of recording audio, photographic or video content, or capable of viewing or playing back such content
- Tutors/Teachers
Do you offer private tutoring?
In addition to our classroom programs, we offer private tutoring from the same quality teachers who teach our PSAT, SAT, and ACT classes! Visit our private tutoring page for more details on tutoring subjects and rates.
All private tutoring is held at either our Westlake office or North Austin office. We also offer virtual tutoring upon request.
- SAT, ACT
Which test should my student take?
Take a practice test! Practice tests will give an accurate assessment of how well your student will perform on a given test. Take advantage of our FREE, complete, proctored practice tests to help determine which test is right for you.
- SAT, ACT
Do ALL colleges accept either test?
Yes! Colleges do not prefer one test over the other. It is more important for students to make sure they are submitting scores they are confident with.
- SAT, ACT
Do colleges require both SAT and ACT for college admission?
No! It is becoming more common for students to take both exams, but colleges do not require students to do so.
- SAT, ACT
What is the difference between the SAT and ACT?
While the SAT and ACT are very similar, there are several distinct differences. Take a look at the comparison chart provided below to compare all aspects of the tests. You can also call our office (512-453-7272) to schedule a free consultation with one of our test prep experts to help you determine which test you should target for college admission.
- ACT
What are the ACT classes like?
Our classroom program typically consists of six 2-hour classroom sessions which cover all facets of the ACT and include full-length practice tests produced by the ACT test makers.
- SAT
What is an SAT Subject Test?
The SAT Subject Tests were a 1-hour tests used to determine a student’s mastery of a certain academic subject area. The subject tests were discontinued in 2021.
SAT Subject Tests included: Literature, History, Mathematics, Science, and Foreign Languages.
- SAT, ACT
What is a “Super Score?”
Some colleges have begun accepting what is called a “Super Score.” This is a combination of the highest scores from each section of a student’s SAT tests, no matter how many times the student has taken the test
Click here to download a pdf from collegeboard.org about Score Choice and participating institutions.
- SAT
What are the SAT classes like?
Our SAT classroom program typically consists of eight 2-hour classroom sessions or six 3-hour classroom sessions, covering every type of question students will encounter on the test. For those who would benefit from additional instruction, private tutoring is available at a discounted rate to MTAT students.
- SAT, ACT
Will colleges receive my highest test score?
Both the SAT and ACT offer “score choice.” This service makes it possible to select and send the highest overall score from one test sitting (as opposed to super scoring which pulls from multiple sittings). Find out more about score choice at College Board.
If you opt to send “4 scores for free,” schools will receive all scores each time a student tests. If you choose to wait, you may send out your scores once you’ve received them for an additional fee per college.
- PSAT
Who sees the PSAT results?
According to the College Board, PSAT results will be sent to students and shared with high schools, districts (in some states), and states (in some states). See Who Will See My Score from the official College Board site to learn more.
- PSAT
What is a “good” PSAT score?
The qualifying score changes each year because it is based on the top 1% of students who take the test. The maximum score possible on PSAT/NMSQT is 1520. For more information on interpreting a PSAT score, visit our blog! The PSAT is primarily used as a practice test for the SAT. A “good” SAT score differs from university to university. Look up your school(s) of choice online or call the admissions office for insight into competitive scores.
- PSAT
When do students take the PSAT?
The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is administered by the College Board for high school students once a year during the fall semester, around the second week of October.
The PSAT 8/9 is offered to 8th and 9th graders and the PSAT 10 is offered to sophomores. The PSAT/NMSQT is available to both sophomores and juniors; however, only the junior year PSAT scores count toward National Merit Scholarships.
- Scholarships
How do students become eligible for National Merit Scholarship?
The junior year PSAT is the qualifying test for National Merit Scholarships. Semi-finalists are students who score in the top 1% of their region. When the results are announced their senior year, students will be notified through their school counselor if they have been selected as semifinalists. To become finalists, students must complete an application process in the fall of of their senior year. Approximately half of all finalists receive scholarships of some amount.
Click here for more information from the National Merit Scholarship’s website.
- PSAT, SAT
What is the difference between the PSAT and the SAT?
There are only a few differences between the PSAT and the SAT. Both tests are completed in 2 hours and 15 minutes. The scoring scales differ slightly between both tests, with the PSAT maximum score at 1520 and the SAT maximum score at 1600. The PSAT serves as an introductory version of the SAT with marginally easier reading sections and less complex math. Scores from the SAT will be evaluated for college admissions. PSAT scores do not directly influence admission decisions; however, a high enough PSAT score can qualify a student for National Merit Scholarships.
- PSAT
Why do students take the PSAT?
The PSAT is worth taking seriously for two main reasons: it constitutes a solid practice round for the SAT, and it qualifies high-scoring juniors for the coveted National Merit Scholarship. Juniors are automatically signed up to take the PSAT/NMSQT through their high school’s counselor. While both sophomores and juniors are eligible to take the PSAT/NMSQT, junior-year PSAT scores will qualify students for any potential National Merit Scholarship. Sophomores can also take the PSAT 10 in the spring of their sophomore year, and freshman are offered the PSAT 8/9 through school. Always check with your counselor to make sure your school offers the PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, or PSAT 8/9 and to see if you are registered for the appropriate test(s).
- SAT
When do students take the SAT?
We recommend taking the SAT at least twice junior year. Students can take the SAT at any time it is offered, but we recommend students take their first SAT no later than March of their junior year. Starting early will ensure that students have ample opportunity to prepare and do their best.
The SAT is offered 7 times a year in: March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.
There is no limit to the number of times a student can take the SAT. Visit www.collegeboard.org to find dates and locations in your area, or to register for the official test.
- ACT
What is a “good” ACT score?
An average score, nationally and in Texas, is about 21. However, it’s best to check with each school to which your student is applying to verify its score requirements. Please visit the official ACT website to learn more!
- ACT
When do students take the ACT?
We recommend taking the ACT at least twice. Students can take the ACT at any time, but we recommend taking their first ACT the spring of the junior year. Starting early will ensure students have ample opportunity to prepare and do their best.
The ACT is offered 7 times a year in: Feb., April, June, July, Sept., Oct., Dec.
There is no limit to the number of times a student can take the ACT. Visit www.act.org for ACT to find dates and locations in your area or sign up for the official test.
Need guidance determining which test and which approach is right for you?
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation to meet with one of our experts and we’ll make sure you get into the right program to maximize your score and reach your testing and college admission goals!