When to Study for and Take Standardized Tests

Standardized testing is a significant part of the college admissions process. Some colleges are test optional but the majority are not. The tests are used as a benchmark to compare students' college readiness. Due to the important nature of the tests many students stress over getting the score they need. This is a reasonable response, but stress can be reduced by having an outlined study plan and testing timeline.

The two accepted college admissions tests in the U.S. are the SAT and the ACT. Each is different in several aspects. Identifying which one suits a student is important as many individuals do better on one than the other. Taking a practice test for both is a good idea to gauge potential performance on real test sittings and will provide information on which test the student should focus on studying for.

Students should begin preparing for the tests early. The best time to prepare for the SAT and ACT is after a student completes geometry and algebra II math classes as these are the basis for the math sections, although a small amount of trigonometry and a few pre-calculus topics are included. English classes throughout middle school and high school will help with the reading sections. These classes do not all need to be taken before testing, but will provide a valuable foundation for the SAT and ACT. Ideally, students should start preparing during 10th grade or the summer before 11th grade. This provides sufficient time to study without being rushed.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that students should take an official test early on, even before high school, but this is not a good idea. Some colleges request all test score reports during college applications, meaning a low score might be seen and will not look good. Waiting until the student is actually prepared for the test is important in this case. Colleges also like to see fewer test sittings instead of many. Taking a test for 'experience' will likely result in a low score and will count as a test sitting. Testing more than 4 times on the SAT or ACT may be a red flag for admissions officers depending on the school, but if a student still needs a higher score after the 4th time then still test again if the score can be improved. It is important to note that the number of test sittings may not matter at all if the college that an applicant applies to does not require all test scores to be sent. Many top colleges allow students to send only the highest composite score. Thus, researching a certain college's policy is important to create a testing plan. Multiple test sittings are also especially important because they allow for a superscore, which is the a combination of the highest subsection scores from all test sittings. Some colleges only look at the superscore on the SAT or ACT, but some do not. Research this policy when creating a testing plan.

Students should take their first SAT or ACT once they have studied for the test and understand its layout by taking official practice tests. For example, if someone begins studying in the summer after their 9th grade year, they should take their first test in the fall of their 10th grade year. Based on the results, they should take it again after studying for several months, such as in the spring of their 10th grade year or wait until the fall of the 11th grade. Everyone should make it a priority to finish testing before 12th grade as students will need time to complete college applications, which often include extensive and time-consuming essay writing and possibly college interviews. Testing plans will vary based on the student, but getting started early is best.

The testing process requires time and planning. That is why starting early is very important, especially when students are trying to get a very high score (1400+). With enough time and hard work, major improvements can be made. There are many online resources, such as the free Khan Academy SAT prep, the paid official ACT online prep program, as well as private tutoring options that can help students improve their scores. Check out our Standardized Tests guide for more information on standardized testing.