SAT, ACT, and AP Exams: What Matters, What Doesn’t, and How to Plan Early

Program Type:

Business & Career, Special Event

Age Group:

Adults, Business, Teens
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Event Details

The landscape of standardized testing has changed dramatically in recent years. With test-optional policies, the digital SAT, shifting ACT formats, and increasing academic pressure, many families feel overwhelmed trying to decide what truly matters.

In this informational workshop, Dr. Ihab Ismail breaks down the role of SAT, ACT, and AP exams in today’s college admissions environment. Parents and students will learn how to determine whether testing makes sense for their individual situation, when to begin preparation, how to avoid burnout, and how to create a smart long-term academic plan starting as early as 9th grade.

Attendees will leave with a clear framework for decision-making and a practical planning guide to use at home.

Participants Will Learn:

  • The differences between SAT, ACT, and AP exams
  • How test-optional policies actually work
  • When students should start preparing (and when they shouldn’t)
  • Common mistakes families make with testing timelines
  • How to balance rigor, performance, and well-being

Ihab O. Ismail, Ph.D. is the founder of College Prep By Design and has over 20 years of experience in secondary and higher education. Over the past 15 years, he has worked with more than 1,300 students and families, guiding them in academic planning, SAT/ACT preparation, advanced coursework (AP and IB), and research mentorship leading to early peer-reviewed publications.