The most popular time to take the SAT is during the spring of junior year and the summer afterwards. However, for various reasons, your child may choose to take it earlier or later. In order to determine when to take the SAT/ACT, first figure out what your child’s goals are in taking the test. Are they taking the SAT just as a test-run for later? Are they applying to college and need scores for their application? Are they applying to a summer program that requires ACT results? These guiding questions should help them decide if now is the right time.
Your child may find value in taking the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) or the Preliminary SAT (PSAT) instead. It may be a more appropriate preliminary test. Additionally, the PSATs are also used to identify students for distinction. For example, the National Merit Scholarship recognizes juniors that score within the top 1%.
Why take the SAT/ACTs early
These tests are sometimes used by younger students to measure their abilities and better prepare them for the future. The SAT/ACT may also be a good way for some students to identify academic strengths or dispel anxieties surrounding standardized testing.
Another benefit is the potential for distinction. Individual states award high scores with academic scholarships and other accolades. SAT/ACT test scores can also be used to apply to gifted programs, like DIP or CTY.
How to choose a test date
The most popular time to take the SAT is the summer before and the spring of junior year. While there isn’t strictly a time when your child should NOT take the SAT/ACT, be aware that the tests are a sizeable time commitment as well as a financial investment and possibly an emotional strain. They should not be taken lightly. Consider the following before registering:
Prep work
Even students at the top of their class should prepare for standardized testing months in advance. Build in plenty of time to study. If your child plans to enlist the help of a tutor or study group, be sure to research and register ahead of time.
Schedule
Consider your child’s schedule when planning to take either test. If they're involved in a spring sport or are registered for AP exams, it may be wise to schedule their SATs when there's more time to dedicate to them.
Material
Ask your child: Has the test material been covered in class? The ACT, for example, includes math sections that are typically taught in junior year of high school. Thus, taking the ACT before then may mean that they’ll encounter concepts not yet covered.
Retakes
Most students take the SAT/ACT twice. It is not recommended that students take either test more than 3-4 times. Some colleges require that applicants share ALL their scores and not just the best ones, so additional testing may lower your child’s average.
Deadlines
Keep application deadlines in mind. Should your child choose to apply Early Decision I/II or Early Action, they may need their scores processed earlier than most students. Allow time for their results to reach the admissions committee. If your child plans to retake the test, be sure that their new scores will be ready before the deadline.
Cost
The tests as well as most tutors, prep courses, and sample materials come with a fee. While there are some free practice tests available online, there is still a financial component to be considered. Especially if your child plans to take either test more than once.
How to prepare
The amount of preparation your child will need depends on their abilities and academic record. If this is your child’s first time taking the SAT, they may require more time to get ready. If they’re retaking it in order to improve their score, their preparation may be more targeted. In general, there are a few steps to take in studying for either examination:
Become familiar with the structure and content of the test
Before cracking a prep book or sharpening a pencil, have your child read up on the test that they’ll be taking.
Identify your child’s strengths
Have your child figure out which subjects and sections they expect to perform well in. Determine where they will need extra revision or outside help.
Take practice tests
There are prep materials available online and in print. Decide how much time/money to invest in order to give your child an adequate sense of the test and how they’ll perform in it.
Study in unconventional ways
Expand your child’s studying beyond sample questions and mock-ups of the actual exam. In addition to taking practice tests, use other materials to prepare. For example, different sources advise reading nonfiction books, articles, and essays to study for the Reading section.
Take breaks/sleep
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-earned study break. It’s also important to eat and sleep well before the test. Even if your child has prepared extensively, a lack of sleep or empty stomach can affect their ability to shine.
What to do with scores
Analyze your child’s results. If they plan to take the test again, identify areas where they can improve and focus accordingly.
If your child plans to submit their scores to colleges, they will need to indicate where. This can be done either when they take the test or afterwards. SAT scores are sent via official reports through College Board. Students are also able to use tools, like ScoreCard, to assess their results and forward only the best ones. Have your child check with their colleges to see what their requirements are before submitting.
It may also be beneficial to talk to one of our Advisors about their experience with standardized testing. You can schedule a free consultation here.
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If you or your child have additional questions, read our blog:
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