The SAT is not just a test of academic knowledge—it’s a signal of commitment, work ethic, and follow-through. Like GPA and extracurriculars, it tells colleges a story about how a student approaches challenges and long-term goals.

Most students begin official SAT prep 8–10 weeks before their target test date. The earliest recommended test date is the summer before junior year, and the latest is typically October of senior year.

Most students take the SAT two or three times. This allows them to become familiar with the test and improve their score strategically, especially since many colleges allow score choice and superscoring.

Superscoring means colleges take the highest section scores across multiple test dates to create a new, higher composite score. Score Choice allows students to choose which scores to send, rather than submitting all test results.

With focused preparation, meaningful gains are very possible. Students often improve 200+ points with consistent practice, reflection, and instruction over a few months.

A strong plan typically includes about 4–6 hours per week, combining instruction, reflection, and full-length practice tests completed under real testing conditions.

Unofficial or “fake” SAT questions can actually hurt performance. Only real College Board questions reflect the true structure, wording, and logic of the exam.

The digital SAT is nonlinear and adaptive, meaning the test adjusts based on student performance. While it’s different from the old version, it follows consistent rules and rewards strategy and preparation.

Right now, the SAT is the more predictable option, with multiple official practice tests available. The ACT is still transitioning to a new format, so many families choose to “wait and see” before committing.

The Reading & Writing section is fully objective. Students succeed by learning the test’s rules—not by relying on opinion, style, or what “sounds right.” Training helps students spot traps and eliminate tempting wrong answers.