By: Allie Schutt

Spring is a time for sports, prom, and the end of the school year, but, most importantly, the SATs. If you want to get into a decent college or university, you’re going to want to take the SATs. Many students take the SATs more than once. This is a common occurrence because colleges look at your best score, not how many times you take it to get that score.

Many students find studying for the SATs to be a difficult task. Since they don’t know what to expect, they don’t know how to study. The best way to study is to practice every day and get familiar with the setup of the test. Many websites offer study questions, or you can buy a booklet. The Squire interviewed junior, Kayla Kuppertz, on her experience with the SATs.

The Squire: How long did it take you to finish the exam?

Kayla Kuppertz: It took a few hours. You have a time limit for each section.

TS: What kind of supplies are students expected to take to the test?

KK: You need to take two sharpened #2 pencils, your own calculator (if you want one), and erasers. Basically, you need to provide the stuff they usually give you for state testing for yourself.

TS: What snacks did you take?

KK: I brought carrots, but I didn’t eat them. You had to get up and go out in the hallway to eat, and I just wasn’t feeling it.

TS: What should people know before they take the SATs?

KK: They should know how the scoring system works, and the importance of their score in qualifying for scholarships.

TS: What is your best study tip for students who are going to take them?

KK: Go on the College Board website and use the resources they offer. They have a problem of the day for math and reading. Taking the PSATs or investing in a study book is the best way to prepare.

TS: They are changing the scoring system and the vocabulary to make the exam easier. How do you feel about the changes being made?

KK: I feel like it might change the requirements for applying for scholarships and getting into college, which may be easier or more difficult for students, it’s hard to say.

If you haven’t registered yet, there is still late registration for the test in May. There is also another test in June if you don’t want to pay the late fee. It may be helpful to take the SATs twice, so you can get a better view of the test and know what to expect the second time. Then, colleges can look at your better score. With hard work and studying, taking the SATs will pay off in the end when you get into college.