We have worked with countless students as they navigated testing with extended time. These are our top tips for getting your best score with the least amount of stress.
1. Apply for accommodations as soon as possible
Approval takes time. Ideally, your student has been using accommodations in school for several months before applying for extended time on the SAT or ACT. Starting early also leaves time to update educational testing, put accommodations in place at school, or resubmit if the first request is denied.
2. Start preparing early, but not too early
Both tests include Algebra 2 content. If your student is taking Algebra 2 as a junior, waiting until after the first semester is often a good compromise between learning the math and leaving enough test dates before application deadlines. If they've already finished Algebra 2, start in the fall. It feels great to have testing done early.
3. Choose one test, and choose it with data
Junior year is stressful enough without preparing for two tests. Sometimes a student is approved for accommodations on one test but not the other, which makes the decision easy. Otherwise, take a full practice SAT and a full practice ACT, both with extended time, and compare. Students often do noticeably better on one.
4. Look carefully at test dates
Plan your preparation backward from the test date. Each test is offered only several times a year, so look at your student's schedule. Playing football in the fall? An early spring date avoids testing the morning after a big game. In the spring play? Fall may be wiser. Whatever date you choose, leave at least one, ideally two, dates afterward in case your student wants to test again. Many students test two or three times.
5. Know which optional sections matter
The SAT no longer has an essay. The ACT's writing test and, as of 2025, its science section are both optional. Only a small number of colleges ask for them, so check your student's list before adding extra testing time, which can be significant with extended time.
6. Pick the right prep program
If your student is testing with accommodations, work with an instructor who has experience with extended time. Strategy and pacing should be adapted to your student's strengths, scores and testing conditions. Don't be shy about asking a tutor about their experience with accommodations before you commit.
7. Commit to the work
If your student is applying to schools that require or recommend scores (and a growing number of selective colleges require them again), scores are an important part of the application. Unlike GPA, they can change significantly in a short time. Every year we see big gains from students who get focused.
8. Do homework under real testing conditions
Use a timer set to your student's extended time. If they have other accommodations, practice with those too. For example, if your student qualifies for a reader, ask a family member to read practice questions aloud. Practicing the way you'll test builds confidence and gives your instructor accurate data.
9. Take full practice tests
Homework is important, but nothing replaces a full-length test. Take at least one, ideally several, before the real exam. It builds stamina and lets your student try out the pacing plan they've developed with their instructor. For the digital SAT, use the College Board's Bluebook app, which mirrors the real test.
10. Keep talking with your instructor
Everyone learns differently. Let your instructor know if something isn't clicking or a pacing strategy isn't working. The best plan combines your instructor's experience with the test and your student's knowledge of how they learn. Small adjustments can make a big difference.
