PRLog (Press Release) – Sep 26, 2009 – Boutique private tutoring services are doing their best to compete with test-prep giants like Kaplan and Princeton Review that can afford luxuries like real ScanTron tests to grade students immediately after practice exams. BestTestPrep.Blogspot recently released their annual rankings. Parliament Tutors placed first in the Private SAT Tutoring category. This honor comes just weeks after Parliament Tutors released its own prep materials and diagnostic grading module. While, the best test prep method is often diligent, independent study, new technology and advanced testing strategies have given students an upper-hand in standardized test-taking.

New York City-based Parliament Tutors, recently invested in state-of-the-art software to better diagnose students SAT strengths and weaknesses. “We want to be ahead of the SAT Prep curve,” explains Parliament Tutors Academic Advisor David Greenberg. “We consider ourselves the most forward-thinking private-tutoring service in the nation. Our software engineers have developed a grading program to assess students’ strengths and areas of opportunity based on their correct and incorrect answers immediately upon submission. Our specialized math and verbal tutors are trained to respond to these evaluations.”

Parliament donates a percentage of its profits to sponsor free private tutoring sessions for students in need. “This campaign is special because is provides those in need with the same advantages as those who can afford first-class tutoring services,” explains Ari Smith, Parliament Tutors Midwest Director. “Students that can’t afford group courses, let alone a private SAT tutor, are at a serious disadvantage when it comes to competitive standardized-testing. I am proud to be a part of this effort and to give back to the community and provide these needy students with the same state-of-the-art software and top-notch tutors available to the wealthy.”

Last year over 1.5 million students took the SAT. As the importance of SAT scores in the college admissions process continues to grow, so does the demand for private tutoring and test-prep services. More and more students are applying to college today than ever before.

“With fewer job opportunities, students that may not have considered school in the past are turning to secondary education as an alternative,” explains test-prep tutor and educator Uri Carni. “Never have we seen such a high number of standardized test-takers for secondary education.” Students have responded to this increased demand in education by stepping up their preparation strategies as college application season approaches. The SAT may be the most important component in the college application process. The most important key for success is identifying your strengths and weaknesses, and building lessons accordingly to maximize your potential. Take as many practice tests as possible and focus on your areas that require extra attention and improvement.

“As important as these tests are, college admissions officers are putting increased emphasis on candidates’ profiles and less emphasis on their scores,” explains Lawrence Beer, Parliament Tutors West Coast Director. “Students are going to have to work hard to find and develop their niches to get admission officers’ attention today. A 700 around the board isn’t what it used to be. Schools want to see leadership, involvement, and expertise.”

This education boom will precipitate an even more competitive college admissions process. Much more attention will be given to students personal statements. It is important to grab your readers’ attention from the outset of your essay. Anecdotal essays that can relate to everyone typically work best. Increased attention and focus is being given to subject tests and AP results, as well. These exams give students a chance to show off their abilities to complete college-level coursework and to demonstrate proficiency in a particular field.