This blog post is a recap of an event Scoir held with Test Innovators. You can learn more about Test Innovators on our partners page.
With uncertainty around the direction the DoE is taking, an average student-to-counselor ratio of 376-to-1, plus changes in standardized testing and whatnot to keep on top of, counselors are feeling the pressure this spring.
We see you! That’s why Test Innovators and Scoir put together our recent event, Tips to Support 10th and 11th Graders This Spring (For Counselors).
In this blog post, we’ll begin by reviewing what your peers think about the recent changes in counseling. Then, we’ll jump into tips for supporting students as they prepare for college from test prep to list building. Throughout the recap, we’ll link to helpful resources and share insights we covered during the live event.
If you’d like, feel free to jump to a specific section by clicking the title below.
- Your Peers’ Take on Recent Changes in Counseling
- The Latest on Standardized Testing
- Saving Time on Letters of Recommendation
- Support for College List Building and Visit Planning
- Tips on Navigating Financial Aid
Your Peers’ Take on Recent Changes in Counseling
During the live event, we asked counselors about their counseling approach, given a trend towards non-traditional post-secondary paths and the rise of AI. Here’s what they said.
How are you changing (if at all) how you talk to students about college?
According to Inside Higher Ed, “35 percent of students do not believe education after high school is necessary, and 63 percent of teens are open to options other than a four-year degree”
Most of the counselors we surveyed (69%) have changed how they talk to students about post-secondary options.
- Emphasizing a broader range of post-secondary paths - 42%
- De-emphasizing college as the "default" next step - 7%
- Increased focus on affordability across options - 20%
- My approach hasn't changed significantly - 31%
How often are you using AI in your role?
With the average counselor having a large caseload, AI can help with manual tasks. Here’s how often the counselors we surveyed are using AI at work:
- Every day - 7%
- A few times per week - 21%
- A few times per month - 18%
- Very rarely - 35%
- Never - 18%
What answers would you give to these questions? Share your thoughts with us here!
The Latest on Standardized Testing
Here’s a quick overview of recent changes in standardized testing from Test Innovators.
SAT Updates
The SAT has transitioned to a digital format, lasting 2 hours and 14 minutes, excluding breaks. It now consists of two sections: reading and writing, and math. Each section is divided into two modules, and the test is computer-adaptive, meaning the difficulty of the second module adjusts based on performance in the first.
ACT Updates
The ACT is undergoing significant changes. The current format lasts 2 hours and 55 minutes, plus an optional writing section. The new version will be shorter, at 2 hours and 5 minutes, with three core sections (English, math, and reading) and two optional sections (science and writing). Starting in April, U.S. students taking the ACT on a computer will experience this new format, while paper test takers will see the changes in September.
Despite many colleges adopting test-optional policies, strong test scores remain valuable. They can enhance a student’s application, help secure scholarships, and even aid in course placement.
How Counselors Can Help
Here are five ways Test Innovators recommends supporting students prepare for the SAT and ACT:
- Advising on Course Selection: Ensure students take courses that align with SAT and ACT content, including Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and geometry for math, as well as reading and writing-intensive classes
- Encouraging Early Test Prep: Advise students to start preparing early, ideally before their senior year, to reduce stress and allow for retakes if necessary
- Addressing Test Anxiety: Help students familiarize themselves with the test format through practice tests and develop a solid plan for test day
- Providing Informational Resources: Create a comprehensive informational packet that outlines test dates, registration deadlines, and preparation tips
- Offering Practice Opportunities: Facilitate access to quality practice resources, whether through independent study or organized mock tests
If you’re interested in a tool to help your students with test prep, we recommend exploring Test Innovators’ site.
Resources for Counselors
Resources for Students and Families
Saving Time on Letters of Recommendation
As the spring and summer approach, counselors often face a wave of requests for letters of recommendation. Here are some effective strategies to manage this process:
- Revamp the Questionnaire: Update your letter of recommendation questionnaire with specific questions that help you understand each student’s unique story. For example, ask about significant obstacles they’ve overcome or their responsibilities at home
- Communicate Clearly: Take time to explain your process for writing letters of recommendation, either through classroom visits or detailed emails
- Self-Care: Remember to prioritize your well-being. You can’t pour from an empty bucket!
Resources for Counselors
Resources for Students and Families
Support for College List Building and Visit Planning
With the average counselor-student ratio being quite high, leveraging technology can save time and improve communication. Here are some tips for managing college visits and lists:
- Encourage Free Accounts: Students can create a free account on Scoir, regardless of whether their school has a subscription. This allows them to explore colleges and access virtual tours
- Use Checklists: Share a college visit checklist with students to ensure they are prepared and asking the right questions during their tours. For a detailed checklist, check out this college tour prep tips and evaluation form
- Collaborative Lists: If your school uses Scoir, you can collaborate with students on their college lists directly within the platform. This feature allows you to recommend colleges based on their interests and preferences.
Take list building to the next level by using Admission Intelligence to generate a College List Score, so students can track the overall health of their choices, ensuring their list is neither too ambitious nor too safe.
Resources for Counselors
Resources for Students and Families
Tips on Navigating Financial Aid
Financial aid can be a daunting topic for many students and families. Here are some helpful resources you can share with them:
Resources for Counselors
Resources for Students and Families
We hope these resources are helpful as you guide 10th and 11th graders through this critical transitional phase. By providing guidance on standardized testing, optimizing the letters of recommendation process, assisting with college list building, and navigating financial aid, counselors can significantly impact their students' future success. Use the resources and strategies outlined in this post to empower your students as they embark on their journey toward whatever comes after high school.
Your dedication to guiding students during this vital time doesn’t go unnoticed! 💙
Psst…we also held a spring event for students and families, covering similar topics. You can watch the event replay here if you’re interested!
Abby deSilva is the Inbound Marketing Strategist at Scoir. She loves creating content and helping students find their dream college and career.
