Arete’s methodology for standardized test preparation offers the combination of an individually customized training strategy with the application of our proven test taking systems. The process starts with a diagnostic test and an evaluation of areas of strength and those in need of development. Our coaches also prepare students to work within the allotted time limits and to work through environmental distractions that may occur during the actual test. Many of our students have shown increases in their scores of over 300 points on the SAT and as much as 12 points on the ACT. We have had many students receive perfect scores although we do not guarantee test results.

"Our son had always been a B student and going to a great college really depended on strong SAT scores and a powerful application. Nikki (Geula) helped Johnathon receive a 2320 on his SAT.. He is now a sophomore at Penn and loving it. Her incredible support and wonderful coaching got Johnathon to write a beautiful personal statement and we saw our son both mature and gain confidence while under Nikki’s guidance. She also recommended a wonderful summer program that he attended in Africa which not only helped him partake in community service but also became one of the best summers of his life. Johnathon not only got into a great college but also came into his own through this process. We are eternally grateful to Nikki and recommend all of our friends and family to Arete."

While some students need minimal test prep, others need a longer time to both master the material and acclimate to the stringent time limits. We recommend that students begin their SAT and ACT test prep one year in advance. Our philosophy is that you can always cut back on tutoring but you can never get time back. In essence, it is better to be prepared earlier rather than wishing you had more time when it is too late to impact your results.

SAT I
Arete’s SAT coaching is structured to improve upon SAT test-taking skills and raise test scores. The SAT is set up to trick and stall a test taker. We teach students how to sidestep the tricks and to ace the material. At Arete, we create a curriculum for each student so that he/she receives personalized attention allowing for focused analysis of the individual's strengths and developmental needs.

Some students are better at reading comprehension than at grammar; others are better at solving algebraic questions than geometric questions. Arete's coaches quickly isolate the trouble spots and diagnose solutions. The one on one SAT preparation process is intensely efficient and accelerates a student's rate of improvement. Overall, Arete's SAT coaching is an instruction in confidence building, learning the material and mastering test-taking. Ultimately, we work to demystify what has often been built up as the most important test of one's life. We have found that our instruction often helps students raise not only their standardized test scores but helps them stay focused and gain more confidence in the classroom as well.

SAT II
Arete coaches have developed a powerful approach to mastering SAT II subject tests. First, we insure a solid academic base for the student. A coach, who is an expert in the specified subject, works with the student to review the salient information that will be on the test. Second, our coaches break down the standardized test into manageable components. Students typically raise their score 150-200 points and we have had many students receive perfect 800’s.

It is highly recommended that SAT II prep begins in 9th grade. SAT and other standardized test prep follows the summer after 10th grade, so earlier study for the SAT II allows for focused attention and better results. Appropriate timing for SAT II prep also primes students for subsequent training in other tests. Students have the opportunity to see how the Arete model works with a proven model of assess, assign (the right tutor), ascribe (the best curriculum) and apply (core skills and test taking strategy).

We provide SAT II coaching for the following subjects:

ACT
The ACT is accepted by most college admissions as an alternative to the SAT. Generally speaking, one test is not better than the other, but the format and content of the tests vary somewhat. Arete coaches will suggest the ACT or SAT based on a careful evaluation of which test best compliments the strengths of each student.

• What are some of the differences between the ACT and SAT? The ACT focuses on assessing the test takers knowledge of their core curriculum and their reasoning skills. Essays are optional and the scoring system encourages students to answer all questions regardless of whether or not they are 100% sure of the right answer. The ACT also has a scientific reasoning section while the SAT does not.
• Which test is appropriate for my child? The answer is either one or both. Arete coaches will help you make this important decision. One advantage of the ACT test is that you can choose not to have the scores shared with colleges and you can take the test as many times as you want.
• How much prep time is necessary? There is no set time for this, but Arete’s philosophy is to coach students towards independence for standardized tests and coursework. Early study is highly recommended to diagnose areas of development and prevent overlap of studyt for multiple tests at the same time.
• How will Arete help my child achieve a great score? The Arete model applies both a custom curriculum based on a thorough evaluation of each student and the application of proven methods for success. Core subjects are mastered as a matter of course, test practice ensures confidence and areas in need of special attention are carefully emphasized.

GRE
The GRE is essential for students applying to graduate schools desiring to earn advanced degrees outside of law, medicine or business. The GRE emphasizes verbal skills, analytical writing and math. Arete’s approach to GRE preparation employs a combination of diagnosing areas in need of development, rote learning, training in analytic approach, enhancing the specific skill sets needed to improve scores and reducing test anxiety.

Q: How long is the test?
A: About three to four hours.

Q: How many months in advance should I start preparing?
A: This varies depending on students’ natural preparedness, but we usually recommend that you start 8 months in advance. Our philosophy is that one can always cut back on tutoring but you can never get time back, In essence, it is better to be prepared earlier rather than wishing you had more time when it is too late to impact your results.

Q: When is the test offered?
A: The GRE is a computer administered exam and can be taken on any business day.

GMAT
The GMAT, along with undergraduate GPA’s, is evaluated for those students interested in attending business school. The GMAT emphasizes analytical writing, quantitative problem solving (math) and reading comprehension. Arete’s process starts with diagnosing the student’s skills and preparedness, and then tailoring an approach and training schedule that ensures thorough and complete competencies in each topic area of this challenging exam.

Q: How many months in advance should I start preparing?
A: Most students allow a minimum of three to four months study time depending on work commitments and other obligations.

Q: When is the test offered?
A: The GMAT is a computer administered exam and is offered frequently on a first-come, first served basis at most testing facilities.

LSAT
The LSAT score is as important as undergraduate GPA’s for those students wishing to attend law school. As expected for a law school admissions exam, sections are heavily weighted towards logical and analytical reasoning, reading comprehension and an essay. After a diagnostic exam, Arete coaches review student’s writing samples and practice test results to create a personalized education curriculum designed to strengthen students’ weaknesses. We match this curriculum with our proven models for increasing scores.

Q: How many months in advance should I start preparing?
A: Typically students should allow for six to eight months of prep time for this exam.

Q: When is the test offered?
A: The LSAT is usually offered four times a year: February, June, October, and December.

MCAT
The MCAT is heavily weighed, along with undergraduate GPA, for admission to medical school. The MCAT emphasizes the sciences (chemistry, physics, biology and organic chemistry) along with verbal comprehension and writing. Arete coaches will review and analyze the results of an initial diagnostic test and subsequent test exams to develop a customized teaching curriculum that covers all the bases. Because the MCAT is so unwieldy, covering so much information, it is essential that we pinpoint weaknesses in material as well work on test prep strategies.

Q: How long is the test?
A: About five and a half hours with breaks.

Q: How many months in advance should I start preparing?
A: About ten months in advance.

Q: When is the test offered?
A: Over 20 times a year. The testing calendar is weighted towards Spring and Summer.