Calhoun Test Prep Program
Inspirica SAT & ACT Coaching
Inspirica is a leading test prep service known for its team of professional instructors and its focus on collaborative learning options. Founded as a collective with highly experienced tutors by John Katzman (who founded and ran The Princeton Review many years ago and was a Calhoun parent), Inspirica has the integrity, experience, and flexibility that align with Calhoun’s goals and values.
Our review courses emphasize mastering these exams while providing perspective on what they test. Inspirica recognizes that standardized tests have limitations in measuring aptitude, talent, or intelligence. However, given that standardized exams have been reinstated as part of the college admissions process, it’s important for students to learn effective strategies.
Our Programs
Inspirica focuses on what these standardized tests measure. As students prepare, we continuously address key gaps in their understanding, enabling rapid score improvement. Inspirica has two options that accommodate both collaboration and learning preferences.
- Small study groups of four students working together for 90 minutes each week, either at the school or online. Finding the right collaborative group is important—Inspirica groups students by their schedules, strengths, and growing edges. While the group will work collaboratively, students will also receive individual attention to address their specific needs, gaps, or areas of challenge.
- Private tutoring for students who prefer to work one-on-one. This option is ideal for students who may benefit from direct, personalized instruction and a more flexible schedule.
Tuition for small group instruction is $1250, and one-on-one tutoring, depending on the tutor, ranges from $200-600 per hour. Please note that Inspirica will match your financial aid package from Calhoun for either option.
Our Staff
Inspirica’s professional instructors are among the most experienced in the nation, having pioneered many of the breakthrough strategies that achieve results. We pride ourselves on having dynamic, compassionate, and creative instructors.
Our experienced instructors make our students feel supported. We are dedicated to turning these tests into opportunities for growth, rather than allowing them to be overwhelming or limiting.
Inspirica SAT and ACT Prep Class Schedule
Spring/Fall 2025 at Calhoun
We recommend 15 – 17 hours of preparation.
The SAT and ACT class dates and cadence will be determined by the group’s scheduling needs. The group will likely meet twice a week for approximately two hours; however, this may be adapted to a different cadence. Classes are only offered on campus and/or virtually. Location on campus, classroom TBA.
Digital SAT vs ACT? Which Should You Take?
For some time, many students preferred the ACT because it felt more straightforward. By contrast, the SAT was perceived as “harder,” focusing on “tricks” designed to confuse test-takers. However, the SAT has made significant changes to align closely with the ACT in recent years. The differences between the two tests have diminished, and we believe the SAT is potentially a better option, thanks to its robust digital platform featuring adaptive testing.
The Digital SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, while the ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. Unlike the ACT, the Digital SAT employs adaptive testing through modules. The duration of the SAT is considerably shorter, reducing test-taking time by more than 1 hour and 15 minutes. Although the ACT recently transitioned to an electronic format, its adaptive features are still in transition.
The math section makes up 50% of your score on the SAT but only 25% on the ACT. Starting this spring, that will change to 33%. The ACT emphasizes advanced math topics such as geometry and trigonometry, while the SAT focuses more on algebra, which may benefit stronger students in this area.
Changes to the ACT this Spring
The science section will become optional on the ACT in the spring. We don’t know whether the colleges will require the science section; they’ve yet to make any announcements.
Students with Accommodations
Students who receive extra time may perform better on one test than the other. It’s helpful to work with a tutor to determine where the greatest improvement curve comes with that accommodation.
We will happily help students determine a best-fit test and provide test prep for the ACT for any student who prefers that exam.
Our Principles
Targeted
Our approach centers on deeply understanding the test, moving beyond rote memorization to enhance critical thinking skills. We focus on the specific elements the test measures and employ strategies to excel in those areas section by section.
Efficient
Our coaching and test prep are highly efficient, delivering results in less time. Test preparation should not come at the expense of schoolwork or passions.
Flexible and Collaborative
Students may prefer to prepare at different times or in collaborative groups.
Test Self-Awareness and Feedback
Students receive personalized feedback that informs their self-awareness, including subject improvement and anxiety management.
Positive Goal Setting
We advocate setting realistic goals that prioritize well-being. We reduce stress and move away from restrictive mindsets to more productive paths.
Experiential
Each program allows students to take mock tests to assess their performance and familiarize themselves with the new digital adaptive formats. Students learn question prioritization and time management.
Upcoming SAT Dates and Deadlines
Exam Date: March 8, 2025
Registration deadline: February 21, 2025
Exam Date: May 3, 2025
Registration deadline: April 18, 2025
Exam Date: June 7, 2025
Registration deadline: May 22, 2025
Inspirica does not register students for the actual tests. Registration for the SAT can be completed on the College Board website.
Upcoming ACT Dates and Deadlines
Exam Date: February 8, 2025
Registration deadline: January 3, 2025
Exam Date: April 5, 2025
Registration Deadline: February 28, 2025
Exam Date: June 14, 2025
Registration Deadline: May 9, 2025
Students should register for the ACT on the official ACT website.