When it comes to tests and exams, students face escalating pressure to succeed. In the UK, there has been an increase in 16 to 18 year olds seeking medical support due to exam-related stress. Both The Family Doctor Association and The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy have reported that their members have received a higher number of requests for psychological help from teenagers to help cope with test anxiety. Factors such as the highly competitive university acceptance process and fears of increase in university tuition costs are significant contributors to this mental health crisis in the young.

Parents can play an influential role in alleviating some of the pressure teenagers face. For those sitting the SAT tests, engaging professional SAT tutoring in London can enormously benefit students and help them feel better about the test prep process. Students who are prepared are less likely to be overwhelmed by test anxiety. A tutoring service can provide invaluable support to students, not only in terms of mastering course material and the ins and out of test taking, but in terms of mental support and encouragement. A-List Education goes a step further by offering students assistance and support through the entire university application procedure.

What to do to help SAT students

How can parents help their teenagers, sitting the SAT, escape test anxiety? The following critical tips add another layer of benefit – that of helping a student to obtain high test scores.

1.         Find a tutoring service that employs tutors with the relevant credentials

The quality of tutoring support is only as good as the staff members that are employed. A SAT tutor will know how to assess a student’s proficiency and determine what challenges need to be focused on, improve a student’s ability to acquire a deeper level of understanding of test content, and provide motivation when it is required.

2.         Ensure a student has established goals they want to achieve and what the action plan is

A tutor can help establish goals but it is important that a supportive parent has an idea of what their teenage student wants to achieve and how they plan on going about achieving their objectives.

3.         Create an ideal study environment

A healthy diet, exercise, and quality sleep are crucial factors for a student before sitting an exam. They also need a quiet study area that is well-lit and with adequate ventilation, in order to promote concentration and focus.

4.         Know what their study schedule is

It is not uncommon for students to procrastinate, especially when it comes to academic matters such as homework, assignments, and tests. By knowing what the student’s study schedule is, parents can ensure that their teenager is engaged in study when they are supposed to be. In order for a student to achieve their goals, they will have to put in the required effort.