2023 Roundup
Before we dive into 2024, it’s helpful to take a moment to reflect on the changes in the standardized testing world in 2023. And for the record: Marks Education is here and ready to help students update their study plans for the new assessment formats and meet their educational goals this year!
RIP Paper Based SAT
Pencils and bubble sheets are a thing of the past for SAT takers. December 2023 was the LAST time students will ever take a paper-based SAT. Going forward, the College Board will administer a new streamlined digital SAT. For more information on the digital SAT, check out our blog post on the new test.
The GRE is Now a Leaner, Meaner Test
In 2023, the GRE shifted from a 7-section, 4-hour slog to a lean 5-section, 2-hour experience. But with fewer questions, the test has a less forgiving score curve that will likely increase score variability. For more information, please check out our blog post on the topic.
A.P. Precalculus
After a pilot year during the 2022-2023 school year, the new Advanced Placement precalculus class was officially offered in schools across the country starting in the fall of 2023. Students enrolled in the course can take the AP Precalculus exam on May 13, 2024.
Looking for help as you make your study plans for the AP Precalculus exam? Speak to a Marks Education tutor today! Curious about our team? Check out their bios here!
2024 Preview
The College Board Rolls Out Its New Digital SAT in the U.S in March
The new test is shorter (2 hours 15 minutes), adaptive, no longer contains long reading passages, and allows students to use a calculator on all math sections of the test. The College Board, however, began administering the digital SAT overseas in 2023. So, Marks Education tutors already have experience working with international students prepping for the test.
For more information on the digital SAT, check out our blog post on the new test.
Marks Education’s Launches its New Digital SAT Website in February
Marks Education has a new website offering students the opportunity to take practice digital SATs written by our own expert tutors. Our tests mimic the style and format of the digital SATs produced by the College Board and serve as an excellent supplement to the four official tests that have been released so far by the College Board.
GMAT Set for Leaner Format Feb 1
Starting February 1st, the GMAT will be fully replaced with the GMAT Focus Edition, a shorter version of the test that allows test takers to revisit a small number of questions. Available in November of 2023, the new format won’t formally start until February. After that, the old format will be gone for good. The new test is almost an hour shorter! The test also no longer contains an essay section, and will be scored on a slightly different scale.
AP African American Studies Class Available for All Schools
This fall 2024, schools across the country have the opportunity to offer Advanced Placement African American studies. According to the College Board, this interdisciplinary course will draw from a variety of fields—history, literature, the arts, geography, science, and law—to explore the vital contributions and experiences of African Americans. The course is currently being piloted (for school year 2023-2024) in 700 schools across the country, including in the DMV area, and a pilot exam will be offered in May 2024.
LSAT Format Changes: No More “Logic Games”
Starting in August 2024, the LSAT will transition to two Logical Reasoning (LR) sections and one Reading Comprehension (RC) section, plus one unscored section of either Logical Reasoning or Reading comprehension. It will take out the section titled Analytical Reasoning or “Logic Games.” Reach out to a tutor to discuss whether you should take the LSAT before or after the switch.
Conclusion
The transition from 2023 to 2024 has included significant changes in the world of testing! However, our commitment to helping you meet your academic goals remains steadfast.
Whether you are a student navigating the challenges of standardized testing or a parent guiding your child through this crucial phrase, Marks Education is here to provide you with the support, knowledge, and resources you need to succeed.
Contact us to be matched with a tutor. We meet with students across the country and globally via Zoom or in person at our offices in Bethesda, McLean, or Washington D.C.