On Tuesday, October 13, 2015, a representative from Kaplan addressed the junior class in regards to the new SAT. Eleventh graders were given helpful pointers regarding SATs, ACTs, and even the PSATs. Juniors learned that there are several upcoming changes in the updated SAT that will be administered in March of 2016 for the first time.

The presentation was very effective. Juniors were informed that different key components of the current SAT were modified. Specifically, the SAT will be based on a 1600 score replacing the old score of 2400. Additionally, the last part of the exam, the essay, will be an optional portion of the test itself.

Although the essay is no longer mandatory, some colleges and universities may still have it as a requirement for admission. During the presentation, it was recommended that students inquire whether or not individual schools require the essay component. The juniors are now better informed and ready to take on the challenge of not just the current SAT but also of the new one in the spring. The class of 2017 will surely be successful!