Amid essays, activities, recommendations and paperwork, students also have to find time to take the SAT or ACT. First, they need to decide which test to take. Then they need to decide when.
Whichever test your student chooses, plan for up to three attempts. Two is often enough to reach their best score, but planning for a third leaves room for surprises. (Yes, students have come down with food poisoning in the middle of a test.) Ideally, the first test happens by the second semester of junior year. Here's what to consider.
Testing during junior year
Most students should take their first test as juniors. Fall of senior year is full of homework, activities and applications, and adding a first SAT or ACT to that is stressful.
Math coursework
Both tests focus mostly on algebra, geometry and Algebra 2 content, with a few more advanced questions. If your student is taking Algebra 2 junior year, a later date gives them time to absorb it. Don't worry if they won't reach precalculus or statistics first; those few questions can be taught quickly.
How your student learns
Does your student do best with steady practice over a longer stretch, or with a shorter, more concentrated plan? Choose a date that leaves enough time to prepare, but not so much that they lose steam.
School and activities
When are final exams?
If they take AP or IB classes, when are those exams?
Are big projects due around the same time?
Is their sport in season, or year-round?
Are they traveling for competitions?
Is their big performance the night before the test?
Personal life
Plan around vacations, holidays and big family events. Past students can tell you that testing on prom weekend has its drawbacks!
Every student's schedule looks different, so don't worry if your student's plan doesn't match their friends'. If you have questions, we're always happy to help.
