Study Says SAT Coaching Doesn't Help Much

A study released Wednesday shows that SAT prep courses that cost parents hundreds and even thousands of dollars aren't really much help.

The National Association for College Admission Counseling says that on average the prep tests might help a student gain 30 points on the test, which is based on 2,400 possible points.

The study also warns school admissions offices not to rely too much on SAT or ACT tests because differences in scores could be the result of measurement error and unequal access to coaching.

The Washington Post reports that test preparation has become a $4 billion business. SAT coaching ranges from free practice tests to one on one tutoring that can cost more than $200 an hour.