When to Begin ACT/SAT College Admissions Test Prep: A Strategic Timeline

Standardized tests like the ACT and SAT can play an important role in the college admissions process, making preparation a crucial part of a high school student's academic journey. But one question often lingers: When should students start preparing? While the answer depends on individual circumstances, there are key milestones that can help guide a strategic approach.

Understanding the Testing Timeline

The ACT and SAT are typically taken during a student’s junior and/or senior year of high school. Most students aim to have their testing completed by the early fall of senior year to meet early application deadlines. Since preparation takes time, it’s wise to start early enough to allow for focused study without feeling overwhelmed.

Freshman and Sophomore Years: Laying the Foundation

While freshman and sophomore years might seem early for formal test prep, these years are ideal for building foundational skills. Focusing on core subjects like math, reading, and writing in school lays the groundwork for success on the ACT/SAT. Students can also take Preliminary SAT (PSAT) or PreACT exams to familiarize themselves with standardized testing formats. Many students begin test prep during the spring of sophomore year.

Junior Year: The Core Prep Period

For most students, the bulk of test preparation begins during junior year. Here’s how we recommend to structure it:

• Sophomore Spring to Fall of Junior Year: Start with diagnostic tests to determine your baseline score and identify areas for improvement. This will help you set realistic goals and choose whether to focus on the ACT or SAT, depending on which test aligns better with your strengths. Start test prep.

• Summer Before Junior Year to Spring of Junior Year: Visit the ACT or College Board site and review or register for upcoming test dates. Dedicate time to structured preparation. Whether it’s through self-study, online resources, prep courses, or tutoring, aim for consistent weekly practice. 

• Summer Before Senior Year: If needed, use the summer months to revisit weak areas and aim for additional practice. Consider taking a final test in late summer or early fall if you feel your scores can improve.

Senior Year: Last-Chance Prep

For students who need additional testing, the fall of senior year offers a final opportunity. By this point, targeted preparation should focus on specific weaknesses. However, this timeline can be stressful, so it's best to avoid waiting until senior year if possible.

Factors to Consider

• Individual Goals: Aiming for highly selective colleges? Consider starting prep earlier and dedicating more time to achieve competitive scores.

• Extracurriculars: Balance prep time with other commitments to avoid burnout.

• Learning Style: Some students benefit from long-term, gradual prep, while others may prefer short, intensive sessions closer to the test date.

Final Thoughts

Starting ACT/SAT prep at the right time can make a significant difference in a student’s confidence and performance. By planning strategically and adapting to individual needs, students can approach these exams with a clear mind and a focused strategy. Preparation is not just about studying—it’s about setting yourself up for success.