The University of California drops the SAT/ACT Scores: What does it mean for you?

SAT and ACT scores dropped for the University of California

The team at Link can assist students and parents with their questions in regards to this change.

In May of 2020, the Board of Regents for the University of California (UC) voted unanimously to stop the SAT and ACT requirements as part of admissions applications for California residents. If you're a California student applying to a UC school, you won't be required to submit your SAT or ACT scores. However, before you get excited, there's some crucial information you should know.
 

Why is the UC Making this change?

The SAT and ACT requirements have been dropped to create a fair admissions process for students faced with the Coronavirus pandemic. According to the Board of Regents, moving away from the current standardized testing model will give students a fairer evaluation of their applications. According to the University's press release, the UC System began researching this change in 2018. Here's their official statement:

“Today’s decision marks the culmination of a two-year, research-based effort by UC to evaluate the value and use of standardized tests in admissions. That process began in July 2018 when President Napolitano asked the Academic Senate to evaluate whether the University and its students are best served by current standardized testing practices. The Academic Senate convened the Standardized Testing Task Force (STTF) in January 2019 and their findings were finalized and presented to the president in April 2020.”

So while the UC announced this decision last week, it's been in the works for a while.

Will the UC stop requiring the ACT and SAT?

Before you contact College Board or ACT to cancel your test, the UC is phasing out test scores for California residents between now and 2025.

UC becomes test-optional for California students in 2020 and 2021

Students in California applying to UC schools in Fall 2020 and Fall 2021 will have the option of submitting their SAT or ACT scores. If you submit your scores, counselors will look at them and factor it into their admissions decision. UC schools will eliminate the SAT and ACT writing sections in Fall 2021. The scores won't play a role in the admissions process as of 2021.

UC Becomes Test-Blind for California Students for 2022 and 2023

In the Fall of 2023 and 2024, UC schools will be “test blind”. Test blind means that the UC schools won't consider California students' SAT or ACT scores as a part of the admissions process at all. Schools may ask students to submit ACT or SAT scores to determine other criteria, like which classes students are eligible for or if a student is eligible for scholarships.

UC eliminates the SAT and ACT for California students in 2025.

By 2025 the SAT and ACT will be eliminated for California students. All prospective California students will take a UC-specific standardized test that's in development. More information about the new UC test will be discussed in this article below.

A brand new UC exam will take the place of the SAT and ACT

The UC plans to replace the SAT and ACT with its standardized entrance exam by 2025. While the details are slim at the moment, we do know that UC wants to create an entrance exam that "aligns with the content the University expects students to have mastered college readiness." UC is creating a test that potential students will have to take that is a better evaluation in deciding if they are ready for college. The UC system has stated that this test will be available to California private, public, and homeschooled students. It's unclear whether all California students will take the test as part of the mandatory state-wide testing or if there will be a fee.

Will SAT or ACT scores still be submitted to out-of-state or international students?

As of right now, the UC system isn't sure whether they will waive the SAT and ACT Test for international or out-of-state students. That means out-of-state and international students will have to submit their scores as part of the admissions packet. The UC has said that it will reevaluate testing requirements for non-California residents, but as of now, international students will have to take the SAT or ACT

Should the ACT or SAT still be taken if you're applying to a UC?

California students who are applying to a UC between now and 2025 may be wondering if they should still take the standardized tests. Here are some questions to decide if your student should take the SAT or ACT exam.

Are you applying in the Fall of 2021 or 2022?

UC schools will be transitioning to being test-optional in 2021 and 2022. Submission for the 2021 or 2022 test scores will still be considered. So what does this mean? If you're worried your application won't stand out from the crowd, submitting stellar test scores could help you earn admission into your dream college.

Are you registering for scholarships?

While the UC system is phasing out standardized test scores as part of the admissions, however, schools may still use the standardized test scores to determine if you're eligible for scholarships or awards. If you're hoping to receive a scholarship from a UC school, you should still take the SAT or ACT.

Does the program require the SAT/ACT for course placement?

Departments, programs, and/or schools may still use the standardized test scores to determine which courses students would take as freshmen. That way, schools can make sure you are enrolling in classes that will set you up for long-term success! To know if your program requires SAT or ACT scores for placement, check out the departmental website. If you're still unsure about whether you need test scores for course placement, contact your admissions counselor.

Are you looking for a guaranteed California Statewide Eligibility Admissions? 

If you plan to take advantage of the California Statewide Eligibility Admissions Guarantee, then you must take the SAT or ACT since test scores are part of the program's evaluation criteria. Students from California that graduated in the top nine percent and were denied admissions to their first UC college will be admitted into another UC college if there's still some space; this is the California Statewide Eligibility Admissions Guarantee. For instance, if you apply to UC Berkley and don't get in, the Eligibility Admissions Guarantee will ensure that you earn admission on another campus if there's space. You can learn more about the California Statewide Eligibility Admissions Guarantee here.

Are you applying to one of the Non-UC schools?

If you're planning on applying to Non-UCs or schools in other states, then you should still take the ACT or SAT. Even though the UC system is phasing out scores, most schools still use standardized test scores as part of their admissions process.

Will other California public colleges eliminate the SAT or ACT? What about private schools in California?

As of this moment, no other California universities have indicated they are moving away from the SAT or ACT requirements. We will keep you up-to-date if any changes come up regarding this change.

What is a Priority Deadline? Is this important in 2021 and 2022? (Updated)

Priority Deadline

Should I apply for a priority or a regular deadline in 2021? The Link team will answer your questions in regards to the college admissions process.

What’s a priority deadline? Is it different from a regular deadline? Is it mandatory to apply for a priority deadline? Will, it hurt your chances if you don’t apply for it? The team at Link will assist you with these questions and how to make these priority deadlines work for you and your student.

Can You Tell Me What Is A Priority Deadline?

If a student applies after this deadline, the application will be accepted, but it won't be a top priority. Students can submit these applications before a school’s regular deadline. Applications submitted before the deadline will get their application looked at immediately by that specific college admissions team. For instance, let’s say a college has a priority deadline of November 1st. If you apply after November 1st, the application will still be looked at, however, your documentation won’t be reassessed until the college admissions team looks at the applications submitted before the November 1st deadline.

Are colleges accepting Rolling Admissions?

Rolling admissions consists of students applying as long as there are still spots available. Even though students have more time to apply for rolling admissions, priority deadlines, can help a student get their classes for their first year. If a student applies by the priority deadline, the student will receive their decision regarding the priority deadline earlier, along with a specific date. 

Comparing priority deadline with other specific deadlines

Here are some definitions.

Regular Deadline: The final date you need to submit your application if you want to get accepted.

Early Decision: If you apply early by November 1st, and you're accepted, you will have to go to that school. Statistics generally show that students who apply by this deadline will give the student a great chance of getting accepted.

Early Action: If you apply early, usually by November 1st, you'll receive a decision from admissions a month later. If the student gets accepted, you have until May 1st to decide if you want to go to that specific school or another one.

Priority deadlines are comparable to early action deadlines. For these deadlines, you just have to apply by that deadline. If you're accepted, the student can decide if they want to attend that college or look at other colleges. If you apply by the deadline, you'll get an earlier decision.  Some schools use early priority deadlines interchangeably, but it all depends on the college. Schools with rolling admissions use "priority deadlines". Other schools use "early action."  There is not much difference between the two.

What about an early decision? Priority deadlines and early decisions require students to apply before the deadline. Both can increase your chance of being accepted into a specific school.  Early decision is required. If a student wants to apply for an early decision to a school and they accept you, then you must attend. For priority deadlines, you can attend any school you want if you're accepted.

Students can still get accepted if they submitted a priority deadline after the registration, however, once a regular deadline passes admission officers will not accept it. Even if you give a good excuse you won’t be able to get your application seen. If a student goes in the route of a priority deadline they will have to apply to that specific’s school regular deadline. 

What are the schools with priority deadlines?

Here are some schools that are using priority deadlines and how they compare to regular application deadlines. Schools with priority deadlines tend to be larger public schools, although this isn't always the case. If a school has a regular deadline (rolling), that means it will accept applications until it fills all the spots for the freshman class.

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School Name           Priority Deadline

Harvard University November 1, 2021

Columbia University November 1, 2021

Massachusetts Institute

of Technology November 1, 2021

Yale University November 1, 2021

Stanford University November 1, 2021

California Institute of

Technology November 1, 2021

John Hopkins

University November 1, 2021

Northwestern

University November 1, 2021

Duke University November 1, 2021

Tufts University November 1, 2021

University of North October 15, 2021

Carolina at Chapel

Hill

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What happens if you apply before and after the priority deadline? 

We recommend you apply for a school’s priority deadline. If a student goes that route they not only have a chance to get into a specific college but also financial aid. There is nothing negative if a student applies by the priority deadline unless one overlooks college deadlines.

If a student applies after the priority deadline, the application will be accepted, but your chances of getting into that specific school will not be good because freshman slots will be filled up fast. If this is the case the application, won't be reviewed. It's rare for this to take place, but it's common for schools with priority deadlines for dorming, or economic aid to run out of spots for these two things. There's a chance you can get accepted, but you won't be able to dorm or receive economic aid. Try to make priority deadlines paramount.

Colleges that have dropped SAT/ACT Scores from 2020-2021 Admission (Updated)

July Update of the 2020-2021 Test Optional Admissions

Many colleges have begun conversations about transitioning their admissions teams to evaluate students without the benefit of SAT/ACT scores. Here are some insights on which colleges will become test-optional during their admission process.

Universities are aware that high school students will have difficulty taking the standardized tests before the application deadlines this year. Dozens of colleges have dropped the SAT/ACT requirements for the 2020-2021 school year. You might be asking yourself:

• Which colleges are dropping the standardized testing?

• Will colleges return to requiring standardized test scores in the future?

• If I have SAT or ACT scores, then should they still be submitted?

  We here at Link will assist you with your questions.

Colleges that aren't requiring SAT/ACT Scores for the 2020-2021 school year

Below is a chart of all the colleges and universities that are NOT requiring SAT/ACT scores for applicants for the 2020-2021 admissions cycle. Some inclusions are the University of California system, Cornell College, and Williams College. The list includes colleges that are test-optional and are dropping the SAT/ACT requirement. However, June brought even more college on the test optional wave, including Harvard.

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School Name Location

Adelphi College           Garden City, NY

Alabama A &M            Huntsville, AL

Alabama State University     Montgomery, AL

Albion College              Albion, MI

Alma College               Alma, MI

Amherst College             Amherst, MA

Austin Peay State University    Clarksville, TN

Auburn University        Montgomery, AL

Bethany College              Bethany, WV

Bismarck State College         Bismarck, ND

Bluefield State University        Bluefield, WV

Boston University              Boston, MA

Brigham Young University       Provo, UT

Case Western University          Cleveland, OH

Central College                Pella, IA

Cleveland State College         Cleveland, TN

Concordia University Texas       Austin, TX

Cornell University               Ithaca, NY

Cottey College                 Nevada, MO

Davidson College               Davidson, NC

Drury University                 Springfield, MO

Fairmont State University          Fairmont, WV

Franklin College                 Franklin, IN

Haverford College               Haverford, PA

Indiana University Kokomo         Kokomo, IN

Indiana University Northwest       Gary, IN

Indiana University Southeast        New Albany, IN

Indiana Wesleyan University        Marion, IN

Iowa Wesleyan University          Mt. Pleasant, IA

Jackson State University            Jackson, MS

Kent State University               Kent, OH

Kutztown University                Kutztown, PA

Lamar University                   Beaumont, TX

Limestone College                  Gaffney, SC

Lock Haven University               Lock Haven, PA

Longwood University                Farmville, VA

Malone University                  Canton, OH

Mansfield University                 Mansfield, PA

Marymount Manhattan College       New York City, NY

Midway University                  Midway, KY

Millersville University                 Millersville, PA

Millikin University                    Decatur, IL

Minnesota State University            Moorhead, MN

Mississippi State College               Clinton, MS

Newberry College                    Newberry, SC

Northeastern University                Boston, MA

Northern Kentucky University            Highland Heights, KY

Ohio University                       Athens, OH

Oregon State University                Corvallis, OR

Pomona College                       Claremont, CA

Portland State University                 Portland, OR

Rhodes College                        Memphis, TN

Rutgers University-Newark               Newark, NJ

Saint Vincent College                    Latrobe, PA

Southern Oregon University               Ashland, OR

St. Mary’s University                     San Antonio, TX

St. Thomas Aquinas College               Sparkill, NY

St. Thomas University                     Miami Gardens, FL

Savannah College of Arts and Design      Savannah, GA

Scripps College                         Claremont, CA

Southwest Baptist University                Bolivar, MO

Texas Christian University                  Fort Worth, TX

Thiel College                             Greenville, PA

Trinity University                          San Antonio, TX

Tufts University                            Medford, MA

Tulane University                          New Orleans, LA

University of Akron                        Akron, OH

University of Alaska Fairbanks               Fairbanks, AL

University of California, Berkley              Berkley, CA

University of California, Davis                Davis, CA

University of California, Irvine                Irvine, CA

University of California, Los Angeles          Los Angeles, CA

University of California, Merced              Merced, CA

University of California, Riverside              Riverside, CA

University of California, San Francisco       San Francisco, CA

University of California, Santa Barbara      Santa Barbara, CA

University of California, Santa Cruz            Santa Cruz, CA

University of the Cumberlands                 Williamsburg, KY

University of Dayton                          Dayton, OH

University of Mount Union                     Alliance, OH

University of Nevada- Las Vegas                Las Vegas, NV

University of Nevada- Reno                    Reno, NV

University of North Dakota- Grand Forks     Grand Forks, ND

University of Oregon                           Eugene, OR

University of Pittsburgh- Bradford                 Bradford, PA

University of Pittsburgh- Greensburg               Greensburg, PA

University of Pittsburgh- Johnstown                Johnstown, PA

University of Pittsburgh- Titusville                 Titusville, PA

University of Virginia- Wise                      Wise, PA

University of Washington                        Seattle, WA

Vassar College                                Poughkeepsie, NY

Washington State University Vancouver         Vancouver, WA

Wayne State University                         Detroit, MI

Western Michigan University                     Kalamazoo, MI

Westminster College                            Salt Lake City, UT

West Virginia State University                     Institute, WV

Williams College                               Williamstown, MA

Winthrop University                             Rock Hill, SC

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College Registration, Admissions and Deadlines

Do you have a student that wants to attend a UC School this Fall? We will recommend crucial tips that will help you submit your documents and get accepted. Read this article to learn more.  With the pandemic, you might be asking yourself, will there be deadlines that students need to follow to get accepted? The answer is YES- click here, to read more. Time is of the essence, so make sure you dot your I's and cross your T's.

As of today, more than half of the United-States' four-year colleges and universities have made the SAT or ACT exam optional for the upcoming admissions season, according to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing.

Will schools return to having standardized test scores required?

Some colleges will accept standardized test scores; some won't. The University of California college system has stated the lack of required SAT/ACT scores will be assessed over the next 5 years. You can listen to our CEO talk more about this in the explanation of the Current Market of College Admissions. Some colleges such as Trinity and Tuft University are using it is a trial period, and will keep the optional policy for three years before deciding whether to implement it permanently or not. Other colleges, such as the University of Oregon and Scripps College, have decided to become permanently test-optional.  However, some schools aren't committed to whether or not they'll continue the test-optional policy after the pandemic ends.

We do know that more and more schools are becoming test-optional. Schools are making an effort to attract more diverse applicants, and they do not want students to be held back by circumstances that are out of their control. Research has shown that students from more affluent backgrounds have higher SAT and ACT Scores. Colleges are dropping the standardized testing requirement, so students from more disadvantaged backgrounds aren't put at a further disadvantage during the admissions process. Over 1,000 colleges and universities in the U.S. are test-optional and test flexible. This number will likely grow over time.

If you have your SAT or ACT scores, should you still submit them?  

We may recommend students who are reasonably able to take the SAT or ACT go ahead with it depending on your circumstances and ambitions. Even if you're applying to a test-optional school, and do not need to submit the scores, we may recommend submitting the scores if a student is homeschooled, looking for scholarships, or applying to an Honors Program.

Out of the 1,050 schools who claim to be test-optional, fewer than 1 percent are “test-blind", meaning that they do not use SAT or ACT scores in admissions decisions. You need to know what test-optional means. When a college goes test-optional, it means the SAT or ACT scores aren't required, but they will still review and consider the scores as part of your application. However, this doesn't mean that the SAT and ACT scores are no longer accepted. Schools that are "test blind" will not look at standardized test scores at all. Test blind is a rare policy, and currently only, Hampshire College follows it. What does that mean for you? Even for test-optional schools, strong SAT or ACT scores will still help your college applications. You will lose out on a chance to make your application stronger if you don't submit your test scores. So, what do you do? Follow these guidelines:

Submit test scores if:

• You have strong test scores (at or around the 75th percentiles of admitted students to the specific school)

• You don't have strong test scores (AP Tests, SAT Subject Tests, etc.) to send.

• The college still recommends submitting scores if you can.

Don't submit scores if:

• You have low test scores (Percentile below 50th).

• You're confident if areas of your college application (GPA, class rank, extracurriculars, etc.) make up for lacked test scores.

• You have outstanding test scores from other exams (AP Tests, SAT Subject Tests, etc.) that will be submitted.

  If students can take the SAT or ACT Test, then they should submit scores if you think they will help you. They're a crucial part of admissions decisions, even if they are test-optional schools. Don't submit test scores if its a weak area of your application. Colleges won't hold it against you for not taking the standardized tests, however, you always want to strengthen your college application.

Coronavirus Impact on Claremont Families

COVID-19 Updates

Updated Periodically…

Here at Link, we continue to closely monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation as it pertains to education in the city of Claremont, CA. With the safety of our students, staff, and community in mind, we’ve begun to gather resources so that our community can stay up-to-date with this ever-changing situation.

• The SAT and ACT Standardized Testing has been dropped: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2020/05/21/university-california-sat-act-admissions-requirements/5241427002/

• CSU Campuses closed for Fall 2020: https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/12/us/california-universities-fall-online/index.html

• The City of Claremont: https://www.ci.claremont.ca.us/living/coronavirus-information

• Claremont Unified School District: http://claremont-ca.schoolloop.com/file/1588673971515/1411627307170/8806776352719792986.pdf

  • School is closed but classes are still in action.

• The Claremont Colleges: https://services.claremont.edu/student-health-services/coronavirus-information/

• Claremont Courier: https://www.claremont-courier.com/articles/news/t36045coronavirus

• SAT Test Sites Closing: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/register/test-center-closings

  • College Board cancels May SAT, and plans for possible at-home AP testing

• ACT Test Sites Closing: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/covid-19.html

  • ACT has rescheduled its April 4 national test date to June 13 across the U.S

• Changes with AP Testing https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/ap-exams-coronavirus

• AP Testing Free Resources https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses

• SAT and PSAT-Related Coronavirus Updates: https://pages.collegeboard.org/sat-covid-19-updates

Books To Make You Smarter as you Self-Quarantine

Being consistent during the quarantine

Here's a list of books that high school students should read to stay engaged.

As you self-quarantine through the coronavirus pandemic, there is no better way to escape than reading some awesome books. With many libraries and bookstores closed, high school students can access hardcopy or e-books by ordering them online. While it's tempting for students to slack off, reading one of these books will help you expand your perspective. Reading best-sellers can help you increase your vocabulary as you prepare to take the SAT or ACT. When you are reading, make a list of words that you do not know but check the definitions later.

East of Eden by John Steinbeck-  East of Eden is a story that consists of the Trasks and the Hamiltons. Steinbeck explores topics such as love, guilt, and freedom as he tells a story that is comparable to the biblical story of Cain and Abel. If you love the scenery of California, you should read this book!

This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald - If you read “The Great Gatsby” you will definitely love this book. The story focuses on the life of Amory Blaine as he becomes an adult. It goes back from his days in prep school to New York. The story also includes Armory's adventures and career dreams. If you like poetry then you will enjoy this story.

Dalloway by Virginia Woolfe - Clarissa Dalloway, the main character of the story, is an upper-class woman in post-World War I England, as she is getting ready for a dinner gathering. The book displays the Feminist Movement.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott-The novel follows four sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, as well as their mother Marmee- throughout different stages of life. Since 1868 Little Women has become one of America's most widely read novels.  Would you like to learn more about Louisa May Alcott? Experience a virtual tour of the author’s home. 

Dubliners by James Joyce - If you like short stories, read Dubliners. The novel was published in 1914 and focuses on middle-class life in Dublin. 

The Yellow House: A Memoir by Sarah M. Broom - The Yellow House is the story of people who live in a home in New Orleans as well as the surroundings of the city. The story is based on a first person’s point of view towards the history of New Orleans. The novel describes the inequalities that serve as the background of the author's childhood.

The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson - Larson, who wrote, "The Devil in the White Cry" publishes the story of Winston Churchill. Larson's narrative sheds light on Churchill's political career. If you are intrigued by the life of Winston Churchill you should definitely read this story.

The Mirror & The Light by Hilary Mantel - This story brings a close to the Tudor trilogy. The first two books in the series- Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies follow the life of Thomas Cromwell’s rise to King Henry VIII's court. Mantel's novel describes Cromwell’s fall from the top.

Normal People by Sally Rooney - Rooney writes about financial insecurities and the hardship of college. According to the New York Times,” there is nothing special about Rooney’s sentences, except the way she throws them.”

The Man in the Red Coat by Julian Barnes- Barnes describes the story of Dr. Pozzi, a gynecologist. Barnes gives the author a tour of Paris during the 18th century. The novel describes the life of a character that people do not remember.

As a student, this is not a time to slack off and watch Netflix or play video games. Not only should you

continue to do your assignments as requested by your teacher but also look at expanding your mind by

reading books. If you have any questions feel free to contact us. Strive For Success!

Handling Stress during COVID-19

Reducing Stress

Students and parents are more stressed out than ever during the Coronavirus Pandemic. Here are some helpful tips on reducing the tension during this troubled time.

The Coronavirus pandemic has been a stressful time for so many individuals. Students have to adapt to learning environments, parents need to become teachers, and teachers need to learn new tools. One way to strengthen yourself mentally is to reduce stress. Here are some tips to help you navigate during this unique scene.

Restrict News Binging

Watching news coverage of this pandemic will cause stress. Link Educational Institute urges people to take a break from the news. Life will go on even if you do not pay attention to what is going on. Give it a shot. Stop watching the news for a day and see how you feel. It is best to listen to updates from your family and friends. 

Work on a Passion Project

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, students are unable to participate in extracurricular activities. However, this does not mean you should drop the ball. We are offering the Leadership Initiative Project where students can find their passion through sports, volunteering, doing a podcast, marketing, etc.

Develop a schedule

Now that students are at home, they have to adapt to a new learning environment. Creating a schedule isn't easy when students have been acclimated to the daily routine of being a student. Be the boss of your schedule. Create your schedule consistently. Develop a routine in the mornings now that you are not being transported to school. Do not forget to take breaks to move away from the computer.

Staying Active

Don't stop moving your body because of the pandemic. It is critical that you add exercise to your schedule. You can do it online or offline. Whether it's going for a walk or taking a yoga class online, you must keep your body active despite this pandemic. If you exercise consistently, then your anxiety will go down and you will start feeling happy. 

Stay Connected

Family and friends are crucial during this time. Figure out ways to stay connected with them while still practicing social distancing. Have a virtual dinner, a conversation, or talk to someone through a window via Facetime or Zoom. 

Discuss test anxiety

Students have to take online classes and exams online. Students can't slack off at this time. College entrance exams will occur. The AP Test is now administered online from home. We do not know if the Subject Tests will take place in June. 

Sleep

Students should try to get 8 hours of sleep to prevent the development of stress hormones. Are you having trouble sleeping? Use sleep meditations to relax before you go to bed. Before you go to sleep do not touch your phone for an hour or two. 

Go on a virtual vacation

The traveling industry has taken a halt due to COVID-19. However, you can still visit the Frick Museum in Pittsburgh. You can take virtual vacations to some of the most amazing places around the world from the comfort of your home. Engaging with art and culture can help you decrease stress.  Instead of watching Netflix or going on social media, try going to one of these virtual tours instead:

The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles

MASP, Sao Paulo, Brazil

Guggenheim Museum, New York

The Frick, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Remember, take life one day at a time. If you're stressing out about college admissions, feel free to contact us. We're here for you! Let's develop a plan together.

AP Exam Dates 2020 Revised

2020 AP Exams

Link Educational Institue will give you the latest information in regards to the AP Exams taking place this Monday.

Despite the Coronavirus pandemic, the AP Exams will still be taking place. The exams will take place between May 11th and May 22nd; whereas, the makeups are from June 1st to June 5th. The AP exams will now shift online and administered at home or school. The AP Exam is now 45 minutes and includes a free-response section. Contact the AP Coordinator if you want to enroll for the test in June instead. However, new enrollments for the exam are not possible at this time. If you want to learn more about the changes to the AP Exams, read this article.

To get the latest test dates for the AP Exams/Makeups, follow these links.

2020 AP Exam Dates

2020 AP Exam Makeup Dates

When will I see my score?

There's not an exact date when the AP Scores will be released. However, teachers will receive their students' responses to their exams no later than May 26th.

How much will the AP Exam cost?

The cost to take the AP Exam is $94. If you're taking the test overseas, the cost is $124. Anyone in financial need could be eligible for a price reduction to take the exam.

Check the College Board website for pricing information.

Read this article to learn about what to do on the day of the test.

Link Educational Institute wishes students good luck for the exams this Monday. Strive for Success!

Changes made to the SAT Test

SAT Test Changes

Are you stressing out about the SAT Test? If so, Link continues to monitor new changes and will give you updates on what to do during this difficult time.

The cancelation of the SAT Tests has affected the educational community; faculty, staff, students, and parents. While the future of this test is still up in the air, we here at Link Educational Institute will give you the information you need along with some guidance on the latest changes to the SAT.

SAT/PSAT Date Updates as a result of COVID-19

For the latest test changes to the SAT and PSAT, follow these links.

SAT Test

PSAT Test

What happens if you registered for an SAT Test that was canceled?

Students taking a canceled SAT Exam will receive a refund within the coming weeks. College Board will send information on how and when you can register for a future SAT Exam. Besides the exam on September 26th, College Board will be offering additional exam dates. It will take some time to determine the best course of action. The College Board will include new test dates both domestically and internationally. The goal is to be as flexible as possible to help students get the test scores they need to apply for colleges.

What should you do during this time?

It's easy for students to get worried about when the next SAT Test will begin. Students need to channel that anxiety into action. Taking this action will help a student feel better and puts them in better metal space to take the exam when the time comes. During this unforeseen circumstances, we recommend students to remember the following:

Things will work out- This pandemic has caused people to worry about their future. Students need to remember that colleges will not penalize them for events beyond their control. Additionally, students all over the world are facing similar circumstances. You’ll be able to take the SAT during the summer or fall, and that will give you time to send your test results to the colleges. If cancelations proceed into January 1st, colleges are working diligently to create a workaround for these applicants. Colleges will accept scores from other exams, such as AP Scores as a replacement, or eliminating the testing requirement this year. Some colleges have dropped the SAT/ACT requirements for fall applicants. Millions of students are in the same boat as you, and colleges want to create a solution that can work for you.

Continue to Study- Students have a lot of free time and should strategize some time to prepare for the SAT. if they start now, when students take the test, they will be prepared with the proper skills needed to achieve in the exam. DO NOT CRAM FOR THE SAT! The more a student studies, the better a score they will earn. Here are some guides that will help you ace the Math, Reading, and Essay portion of the SAT Test.

Strengthen parts of your college application- Besides test scores, colleges are still looking for students that are engaged extracurricularly, and socially. Even now, you should try to find ways to strengthen your college application:

• Performing well in your classes.

• Come up with ways to keep practicing and meting at a distance with your sports and league clubs. Ideas can include: holding online fundraisers, organize grocery drop-offs, organize virtual meetings, and brainstorm ideas for next year,

• Deciding which teachers will write a letter of recommendation for you.

• Finding opportunities for virtual internships over the summer.

We also suggest students to research different colleges, majors, and career paths, for the future. For more information on strengthening your application, read “What remote activities would impress colleges.”

Writing Ideas For Students

Writing Prompts

If you're a teacher, student, or a home-schooled parent, Link Educational Institute recommends these prompts to keep a student engaged.

Educational activities are crucial during this time. Writing can help boost a student's creativity, interpersonal skills, and the ability to focus. If you're a teacher, student, or a homeschooling parent these days, these writing activities are for you. These 25 writing prompts are for students who range from elementary to high schools. Various titles range from “dreams” to “see if homework helps students learn”. These prompts can appeal to students.

Tips For Writing Prompts

How could you use these writing prompts for students? There are factors to consider, such as age, schooling structure, and a student’s own interests/abilities. However, there are other tips to consider.

• Daily Writing can help prompt exercise- Assign students one of the prompts at the start or end of the school day. It could be a way to get organized for a busy day or a method to reflect and unwind right before bed.

• Find A Quiet Place To Work- People can have a hard time writing with noise or distractions.  A distraction-free space can help students focus on their thoughts to produce their best writing. Try using scents to provide a helpful workplace mental boost.

• Provide an approximate writing length or time- Writing prompts can be answered briefly or explained in much depth. If the student aims for a specific number of words or pages, the student will have an idea of how detailed the response can be. Alternatively, a student can choose to free write for a given period of time.

• Have students handwrite their responses - When students write by hand, they are thoughtful about the responses compared to typing their responses.  There is also the benefit of their handwriting skills potentially improving.

  37 Writing Prompts for Students

  Here are 37 writing topics for students, they are organized into three categories: narrative writing, creative, and argumentative prompts for students.

Narrative Writing Prompts For Students

1.  What are three goals you have for yourself?

2.  Create a list of your favorite activities that you do each season.

3.  What is the craziest dream you've ever had?

4.  We hear stories of people wanting to be famous. What would you do if you were famous?

5.  If you went back in time, which year would you choose?

6.  What's the hilarious thing you've ever seen?

7.  The holidays bring people together. What is your favorite holiday or tradition?

8.  What would be your dream job?

9.  Some individuals would like to write an autobiography with a table of contents. If you created an autobiography, what would you name each chapter?

10. What is your memory as a young child? Write details if you can remember it.

Fiction/Creative Writing Prompts for Students

11. Create a funny internet quiz.

12. Write a poem about a favorite season.

13. If you could have dinner with three people (real or fictional) who would you pick, what would you talk about and also eat?

14. Write a story from a lyric of any song.

15. Choose an item next to you, and write a haiku about that item. You'll get bonus points if it rhymes.

16. If you could be an animal for one day, which animal would you be and what would you do?

17. Look through any photographs, drawings, or pictures. Pick one and write a story about it. Imagine where it is and the people or things there.

18. Create a story about a character getting lost in the woods and finding a mysterious person there.

19. Aliens have landed on Earth. What would they look like, how would they act, and will they be friendly or not?

20. You've just survived a shipwreck and washed up on an island. What do you see on the island, and how will you get back home?

Argumentative Writing Prompts for Students

21. Will homework help students learn?

22. What age should students get a cell phone?

23. Which celebrity is the best and worst role model for students?

24. Of the following, which is the best: electronic books, audio, or traditional print books?

25. If students spend too much time on social media, will there be dangers?

For more homeschooling tips for the new COVID Teacher in you, check out this article.

Tips for Homeschooling Your Child or Teenager

Home Schooling Tips

Are you stressing about this new learning environment? If so, we will give you tips on how you and your student will get through this pandemic.

With the Coronavirus closing up campuses, we have all been forced to adapt quickly to electronic distance working tools. These times can be stressful for both students and parents as they attempt to conform to their school’s e-learning environment. For any difficulties with the transition, Link Educational Institute can assist you with the homeschooling process and ease the stress in your household. For now, these tips will help you get through this unforeseen time.

Follow a flexible schedule

The most crucial homeschooling tip is coming up with a steady routine. The routine should be consistent and work well for both the parent and student. Creating a flexible yet consistent schedule will prevent your student from thinking that this pandemic is an extended vacation. If your student is not in the mood to do mathematics, have them focus on a different subject that will hold their attention, such as drawing or reading. If you need help creating a schedule, look for samples online such as this homeschooling schedule.

Instead of creating a schedule based on your student's subjects, delegate time slots for more general academic review, reading/writing, and doing chores. Touch base often to make sure your student is making progress and on track to learn new skills for both school and life.

Have a Firm Study Space

With students being home, they have plenty of distractions, such as watching television, eating, or playing with the family pet. Have a study space that will associate with the specific environment with learning instead of relaxing. It doesn't have to be a room- it could be the table in the kitchen. Make sure the space has all the tools the student will need including writing materials, sufficient sources to electricity for your laptop, and WATER. It's the student's responsibility to make the right choices for their learning environment.

Use Top-Quality Teaching Resources

Parents should be aware of various online and offline resources that can help their students during this pandemic.

• Khan Academy- Offers tutorial videos and instructions on various school subjects.

• Ted Talks- Presenters will talk about a variety of topics such as business, science, technology, etc.

• Duolingo- A language learning platform with up to 30 languages.

• Quizlet - This digital website is for making and using flashcards.

• Calvert Homeschool - A program that contains videos and exercises grades 3-12.

Additional offline resources include:

• Podcasts

• Storytelling Videos

• Documentaries

• Textbooks

• YouTube Videos showing mathematics, science, language, etc.

Get in touch with the school or your student's teacher to figure out what your child was studying before the Coronavirus pandemic started. If you have young children, you can create worksheets and flashcards. Download free pre-made worksheets.

Customize Lessons and Activities

When you create your child's homeschool curriculum, keep in mind their interest and learning style. For instance, if your student loves to write, give them a couple of hours each day to write short stories. Their work can turn into a portfolio. If you have older students, have them work on a passion project where they can research, write a report, and present their findings. Your student will be enthusiastic about school when they are passionate about something.

Parents and Students Should Take Breaks

You don't want your child to keep studying all day, especially if you have younger children. Give your student 10 to 15-minute breaks plus a long half-hour recess around lunch. If you have older students, give them 10-minute breaks about every hour. They can go for walks to get blood pumping and energy levels high. Parents also deserve a break from their job and homeschooling. Go for a walk, chat with a friend, and find a way to model good behaviors.

Limit Screen Time As Possible

It's easy to give your student a tablet and have them learn through the device. Young children need to improve their hand-eye coordination and interpersonal skills. Parents should focus a young child's attention on non-screen activities such as

• Throwing/Catching a Ball

• Arts and Crafts

• Creative Writing

• Silent Reading

If you can't limit screen time, don't feel bad about it. We understand that parents have to homeschool and work at the same time. Make sure that your student is busy and learning during this time.

Give Praise to your Student

This unforeseen time has put pressure on students and parents. It is paramount that you keep it positive by praising your student and telling them what they are doing well in this everchanging learning environment. If you have a younger child and noticed that they are adapting especially well, then praise them on their maturity. If you have a student in high school and noticed that they are doing well in Algebra, then give them praise for their problem-solving skills. Give your student positive praise when they're providing their best effort.

Be Nice to Yourself

No parent ever expected to be homeschooling their student (s) this year. It's normal to feel stressed. As a parent, you should love yourself and know that you're doing your best. Good and bad days are expected, during this, unforeseen time. Whether you're a stay at home parent or new to homeschooling, we hope these tips can get you through this tough time. We're in this together.