---
title: Online SAT / ACT Prep Blog by PrepScholar | Hannah Muniz
description: Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.
---
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## Choose Your Test
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## Hannah Muniz
Hannah received her MA in Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan and holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Southern California. From 2013 to 2015, she taught English in Japan via the JET Program. She is passionate about education, writing, and travel.
### Recent Posts
## [ACT vs SAT: 10 Key Differences to Help You Pick the Right Test](https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-vs-sat)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | March 20, 2026
[SAT versus ACT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/sat-versus-act)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-vs-sat)
You've probably heard of the ACT and SAT, but how different are these two tests really In this extensive ACT vs SAT analysis, **we look at the top 11 differences between the Enhanced ACT and Digital SAT** and explain what these differences mean for you. And to conclude, we give you tips on how to decide whether you should take the ACT or SAT.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-vs-sat)
---
## [8 Steps for How to Pass the TOEFL With a Stellar Score](https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-pass-toefl-score)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | March 6, 2024
[TOEFL](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/toefl)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-pass-toefl-score)
Knowing how to pass TOEFL test day is critical for international students who want to an attend English-speaking school. But what does "passing the TOEFL" really mean? Is there a certain TOEFL passing score everyone must get?
In truth, **a TOEFL passing score is any score that's high enough to get you into the schools you wish to attend.** Therefore, the score *you* need to pass the TOEFL will vary depending on where you're applying.
In this guide, we explain why you can’t technically pass (or fail) the TOEFL. We also give you tips on how to find your TOEFL passing score, how to increase your odds of passing the TOEFL, and what to do if you’re struggling to reach your passing score.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-pass-toefl-score)
---
## [Test-Optional Colleges: Complete List of 1,000+ Schools](https://blog.prepscholar.com/test-optional-colleges-list)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | January 29, 2024
[College Info](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/college-info)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/test-optional-colleges-list)
SAT and ACT scores are common admission requirements for college. But what if I told you that you could get into a great school without taking either of these exams? Behold **test-optional colleges.** Colleges that are test optional don't require you to submit SAT or ACT scores but will consider them if submitted.
In this guide, we'll explain what "test optional" means for different schools before providing you with **a comprehensive list of test-optional colleges and universities in the US.** The first two lists will cover the best test-optional colleges and universities (i.e., those ranked in the top 100), and the last list will include all other test-optional colleges in the country.
Along the way, we'll also give you a few key tips on when you should and should not send your SAT/ACT test scores to schools.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/test-optional-colleges-list)
---
## [ACT Registration Dates and Deadlines (2025-2026)](https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-registration-dates)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | December 3, 2023
[ACT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/act)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-registration-dates)
To ensure you have a solid ACT study plan, you must first familiarize yourself with ACT registration dates. **What and when are the most important ACT deadlines?** How can knowing these deadlines benefit you as a test taker?
In this article, we go over upcoming ACT registration dates and examine the general patterns of ACT registration deadlines. We also discuss the differences in deadlines for late registration, standby registration, and changes to your test reservation before wrapping up with a look at how *you* can use ACT deadlines to your advantage.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/act-registration-dates)
---
## [Can You Take the ACT Test Online?](https://blog.prepscholar.com/can-you-take-the-act-online)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | November 20, 2023
[ACT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/act)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/can-you-take-the-act-online)
Can you take the ACT online? The answer used to be a resounding "no" but, in Fall 2023, the CEO of the ACT made the surprise announcement that they'd begin offering a digital ACT as a pilot program beginning in December 2023. Since then, access to the digital ACT has expanded, and students in the US now have the opportunity to choose between the paper ACT and the online ACT.
How does the online ACT work? How is it different than the paper ACT? Can you take the ACT at home on your laptop? What do you need to do to prepare? We'll answer all those questions in this guide!
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/can-you-take-the-act-online)
---
## [What Are Good SAT Scores for Colleges? 101 Schools + Advice](https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-scores-for-colleges)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | November 8, 2023
[SAT/ACT Score Target](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/sat-act-score-target)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-scores-for-colleges)
As you apply to college, it's important to understand how high of an SAT score you will need to aim for on test day. This raises the question: **what are good SAT scores for colleges?** And not just any colleges, but *your* colleges specifically?
In this article, we'll examine the SAT scores needed for college and how these scores can vary due to differences in factors such as school prestige and competitiveness. We'll then show you how to look for average SAT scores for colleges and how to set your own SAT goal score.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-scores-for-colleges)
---
## [PSAT Score Range: Where Do You Rank?](https://blog.prepscholar.com/psat-score-range)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | November 1, 2023
[PSAT Info and Strategies](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/psat-info-and-strategies)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/psat-score-range)
5
Although the PSAT and SAT share many similarities, their score ranges are actually pretty different. Unlike the SAT score range, which has a maximum score of 1600, **the PSAT score range only goes up to 1520.** But why? What are the score ranges for each PSAT section? Also, can you use the PSAT scoring scale to predict your SAT score?
**In this article, we'll go over the current PSAT score range and PSAT score distribution.** We'll then compare PSAT score ranges with SAT score ranges before concluding with a list of estimated PSAT score cutoffs for the [National Merit Scholarship Program](https://blog.prepscholar.com/how-to-get-a-merit-scholarship).
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/psat-score-range)
---
## [What Is the PSAT Test? Everything You Need to Know](https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-the-psat-test)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | October 29, 2023
[PSAT Info and Strategies](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/psat-info-and-strategies)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-the-psat-test)
Most students know what the SAT is, but what is the PSAT? Sure, it's got "SAT" in its name, but is the PSAT actually connected to the SAT? More importantly, how does the PSAT test work and what is its purpose?
In this article, **we'll answer your most pressing question: what is the PSAT test?** We'll start by explaining the meaning of PSAT and why students typically elect to take it. We'll then go over the logistics of the test and how PSAT scoring works. Finally, we'll finish with a brief discussion about how important PSAT scores actually are for students.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/what-is-the-psat-test)
---
## [5 Tips for Writing the Perfect Rice Essay Supplement](https://blog.prepscholar.com/rice-essay-supplement-examples)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | October 19, 2023
[College Essays](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/college-essays)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/rice-essay-supplement-examples)
Rice University is [one of the top 20 universities in the nation](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rice-3604), and to get in, you need more than just awesome grades and test scores—you need a compelling Rice essay. **The Rice application requires several essays depending on the school you're applying to at the university.** So what should you write about for each Rice essay to make your application as strong as it can be?
We'll explain what the Rice supplement is and go over the Rice University essay prompts you'll see on your application. Then, we'll give you expert tips on how to answer each essay prompt so you'll have an even better shot at getting accepted to this prestigious university!
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/rice-essay-supplement-examples)
---
## [How to Write a Diversity Essay: 4 Key Tips](https://blog.prepscholar.com/diversity-essay-college)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | October 18, 2023
[College Essays](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/college-essays)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/diversity-essay-college)
If you're applying to college, you've probably heard the phrase "diversity essay" once or twice. This type of essay is a little different from your typical ["Why this college?" essay](https://blog.prepscholar.com/why-this-college-essay). Instead of focusing on why you've chosen a certain school, **you'll write about your background, values, community, and experiences—basically, what makes *you* special.**
In this guide, I explain what a diversity college essay is, what schools are looking for in this essay, and what you can do to ensure your diversity essay stands out.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/diversity-essay-college)
---
## [How to Register for the PSAT: 3 Simple Steps](https://blog.prepscholar.com/psat-registration)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | October 11, 2023
[PSAT Info and Strategies](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/psat-info-and-strategies)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/psat-registration)
Every autumn, sophomores and juniors have the opportunity to take the PSAT. **But how exactly does the PSAT registration process work?** Does everyone have the same PSAT sign up date? What does it cost to take the PSAT?
Here, **we'll teach you everything you need to know about PSAT registration.** We'll start with a brief overview of how registration works and then go over the three key steps you need to take in order to register for the PSAT. We'll also touch on how to register if you're homeschooled or living outside the US before finishing with our top tips for ensuring a smooth PSAT registration process.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/psat-registration)
---
## [3 Tips for Writing Stellar 2024-2025 Georgia Tech Essays](https://blog.prepscholar.com/georgia-tech-essays-examples-prompts)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | October 10, 2023
[College Info](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/college-info), [College Essays](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/college-essays)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/georgia-tech-essays-examples-prompts)
Before you envision yourself getting settled in at Georgia Tech, you must get over the hurdle of writing the Georgia Tech essays. **The Georgia Tech supplement requires you to write a short essay specifically for Georgia Tech.** But what is the essay prompt? And what should you include in your Georgia Tech essay?
Keep reading to learn exactly what the Georgia Tech essay is, what kinds of topics you can write about (and what kinds of topics to avoid), and how to ensure you're submitting a quality essay.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/georgia-tech-essays-examples-prompts)
---
## [SAT and ACT Test Dates: Find Your Best 2024-2025 Testing Schedule](https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-and-act-test-dates)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | August 2, 2023
[ACT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/act), [SAT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/sat)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-and-act-test-dates)
You know that you'll have to take the SAT or ACT and do well on it—but figuring out exactly *when* to take your exam can sometimes feel like the hardest part of the whole testing process. In this guide, **we introduce all upcoming SAT and ACT dates for the 2024-2025 testing year** and explain what factors you must consider before committing to a test date.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/sat-and-act-test-dates)
---
## [Do Online SAT/ACT Classes Work? Is Online Test Prep Right for You?](https://blog.prepscholar.com/online-sat-act-prep-classes)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | May 30, 2023
[ACT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/act), [SAT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/sat)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/online-sat-act-prep-classes)
If you're thinking of hiring a private tutor or enrolling in a local class for your SAT or ACT studying, **take a moment to consider whether an online prep class might be right for you.**
To help you make an informed decision about your prep, we're providing you with a list of the six biggest pros and cons of online SAT and ACT classes. But first, what exactly is an online prep class and how does it work?
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/online-sat-act-prep-classes)
---
## [When Is the March SAT? Should You Take It?](https://blog.prepscholar.com/march-sat)
Posted by [Hannah Muniz](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz) | May 16, 2023
[SAT](https://blog.prepscholar.com/topic/sat)
[](https://blog.prepscholar.com/march-sat)
Ah, spring. While most students are already celebrating the coming end to the school year, others are busy studying for the March SAT. This raises a critical question: **exactly who should take the March SAT? Should you?** Or would another test date work better for you and your schedule?
Read on to learn when the upcoming March SAT is, when scores will be released online and to the colleges you choose, and the biggest pros and cons of this popular spring test date.
[Read More](https://blog.prepscholar.com/march-sat)
---
[All Posts](https://blog.prepscholar.com/all) | [Next Page](https://blog.prepscholar.com/author/hannah-muniz/page/2)
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