Test Preparation: ACT vs. SAT

We know that the college admissions process can be confusing. Let us help!

We have spent years breaking down these tests to understand how they work and what skills and strategies it takes to conquer them. But first, we need to help your family figure out which of the two tests is better suited to your student’s learning style.

The first step is for your student to take a diagnostic ACT and SAT. We will score both exams and analyze the results, providing you with a decision of which test is better for your student. We will then have a consultation call to map out your student’s customized test prep plan based on their initial scores, their goal score, and the colleges and universities to which they plan to apply.

Best of all, we offer this as a complimentary service to our community. To receive your copy of the diagnostic test packet, follow the link below. You will receive an email shortly after containing everything you need to get started.

How Should My Student Be Preparing?

The test preparation process, from choosing a test to actually sitting down to take it, can involve many steps. Below, we’ve mapped out where students in each age group, freshmen to seniors, should ideally be along the test prep timeline.

Freshmen and Fall Semester Sophomores

Students in this age group should be focused on developing good academic habits, strong connections with teachers, and getting the best grades they can. Any issues in core classes, especially English and Math, should be addressed now, because being prepared in these subjects will make the test prep process quicker, easier, and more successful. If you are concerned about your student’s progress, our Academic Coaching or Subject Coaching services may be appropriate and impactful.

Additionally, freshmen should be reading for pleasure at least two hours a week, which greatly improves reading comprehension scores. We are always happy to recommend books if your student is struggling to find something to read.

Spring Semester Sophomores

Students in this age group should take the diagnostic ACT and SAT and start developing a test preparation plan. The summer between Sophomore and Junior year is often the best time to prepare for the college entrance exams.

Fall and Spring Semester Juniors

Students in this age group should have a test preparation plan in place and be taking their chosen entrance exam, usually wrapping up by February of the following semester.

Seniors

Students in this age group should be spending the summer and fall working on college applications. By planning ahead, the test and application components of the admissions process can be separated, which greatly reduces stress and anxiety.

If you feel like your family is behind, please schedule a call today to let us help you get back on track.

What Can I Expect as a Parent?

A Custom Plan

Simply put, we meet your student where they are at. While some aspects of our test prep programs remain constant for each student due to the nature of these exams, we tailor our approach to fit your student’s skill level and needs. Our coaches adapt various aspects of testing strategies to help your student get their best possible score.

Continual Support and Updates

The admissions process takes place over multiple semesters, and you will receive support from us along the entire way. From score report updates after each practice exam to emails alerting you that your student forgot to do their test prep homework, you will know exactly what is going on without having to check on your student yourself.

Less Stress

All of this means you have to worry less, knowing that your student is doing everything possible to get their best score. By spacing out the process and avoiding admissions process overlap, your student is able to balance school, extracurricular activities and college admissions work.