New SAT vs. Old SAT

Test Preparation
1

Hey guys,
I recently discovered that in 2016 there will be a new SAT, “redesigned” as they are calling it, put into place (Starting in March). The current, or now to be called “old”, SAT will no longer be given after January. (You can read more about this here: https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org). This has put me in a awkward position, and left me filled with questions (Which is where you guys come in!). First of all, let it be known that I don’t graduate until 2018 (Currently a sophomore). So with this in mind, I will most likely be submitting the new SAT to colleges when I apply. However for the summer of 2016, I was hoping to apply for some college summer camps, most of which require SAT scores. I feel a bit cheated out, studying for the old SAT just for these summer camps, then just having to restart and start studying the new SAT. Do you guys know if there is any options to avoid this? (I.e just study 1 SAT, old or new).

Also, for ivy league colleges “average” SAT scores were typically around 2200+. However the new SAT is scored out of 1600. Since it hasn’t come out yet I don’t expect many answers to this question, but what should students shoot for score wise? I’m assuming the questions will be a bit harder so not everyone is scoring high scores.

2

@articlez
Well, I’m in class of 2017, so my dilemma is which (or both) versions to take. But in your case, it does suck that you kinda have to study for both. You should try contacting those summer camps and see if they’ll take pSAT scores, since the 2015 pSAT will be the new version. As for the optimal score, a 2200 is equivalent to a 1470 ish (just set up a proportion). So if you wanna aim for the really top schools, then I think you’ll want 1500+.

3

@articlez
Like @WHSTrojan said, the PSAT starting in 2015 will be changed to the redesigned SAT material. If you are a part of the class of 2018, I would probably suggest you to take the new one. Me, I am graduating in 2017 and am trying to study for the ACT, the old SAT, and the new PSAT. To be very honest with you, I feel like I should have actually just done the ACT and new SAT/PSAT. It’s truly a lot of work and you do get confused on all the different structures and concepts. Because you have about a year to spare, I would concentrate on the new version.