For many students, standardized testing is often an important part of the college admissions process. While these tests may be optional in many schools, strong SAT or ACT scores can still strengthen their applications, and improve scholarship opportunities.
Parents can play a valuable role in helping their students prepare for the SAT and ACT. And we can do that not by increasing pressure, but by providing structure, encouragement, and access to the right resources.
The Tests Aren’t the Same
The SAT and ACT are the two nationally recognized college entrance exams accepted by virtually every college and university in the United States. Neither test is considered better than the other. I’ve found that colleges toward the coasts tend to favor the SAT while schools in the Midwest lean toward the ACT. But scores from either test can be submitted to pretty much any institution.
The SAT
The SAT primarily focuses on reading, writing, and mathematics, emphasizing reasoning, analysis, and problem-solving. Students have about a minute and ten seconds per question during the test. Also, the SAT is now administered digitally in the United States. This allows the test to be both shorter and more adaptive. Adaptive means that, based on the first few responses in a section, the test will present students with either less difficult or more difficult items to follow. Keep in mind that correct answers to harder questions will yield a high score than correct answers to easier questions. The SAT composite score ranges from 400-1600, with section—reading and writing or math—having a score range of 200-800.
The ACT
The ACT tests English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning. Starting in 2025, the ACT made the science section optional. This will shorten the core test for many students. The ACT generally moves at a faster pace, rewarding students who work quickly under time pressure. The composite score your student will receive ranges from 1-36, which is the average of the four sections of the test.
Students may perform better on one exam simply because it matches their testing style. Of course, the only way to know which test suits your student is for them to take either a practice test, or jump in with both feet on the real tests. Without a doubt, students often feel one test fits them better. Our son felt his ACT composite score was a much better reflection of his abilities than his SAT score. I agree.
Start Preparing Earlier Rather Than Later
Students shouldn’t prepare for the SAT or ACT in the last few weeks before either test. In fact, they should begin exploring the tests during their sophomore or early junior years of high school.
Parents can help by encouraging consistent habits such as:
- Reading books regularly. This keeps them familiar with language, phraseology, word definitions and language concept relationships.
- Reviewing foundational math concepts, especially algebra and geometry. Even reviewing simple formulas and applying them regularly will help.
- Taking practice tests—from among many available options for the SAT and ACT—under realistic, timed conditions.
This approach will help them improve their score and reduce the anxiety often associated with these tests.
What About Test Prep Courses?
Professional SAT and ACT preparation courses can be helpful, especially for students who need accountability and personalized instruction. These courses may be classroom based, live online instruction or one-on-one tutoring. Some folks also opt for self-paced online programs. Choose this option if your student is self motivated; many aren’t.
I prefer programs with live instructors primarily because students can ask questions about pacing and how to approach the test questions they’re seeing. They often can’t do that with online versions, or those featuring larger classes.
These programs often teach students both the academic material and effective test-taking strategies, pacing techniques, and common question formats.
However, prep courses are not the only path to success. Many students achieve excellent scores using free or low-cost resources combined with disciplined independent study.
Other Ways to Prepare
You don’t need to spend a fortune to help your student prepare for these tests. Consider these additional strategies:
Take official practice tests. Practice exams help students become comfortable with timing, question formats, and endurance. They also identify strengths and weaknesses that can guide future study.
Create a realistic study schedule. Studying for 30–60 minutes several times each week over several months is generally more effective than cramming right before the exam.
Review mistakes carefully. Simply taking practice tests isn’t enough. Encourage your student to spend time understanding why they missed questions and how they can avoid similar mistakes in the future.
Use free online resources. Both the SAT and ACT provide official practice materials, and several nonprofit organizations offer high-quality instruction at little or no cost.
Maintain healthy routines. Adequate sleep, nutritious meals, regular exercise, and stress management all contribute to improved concentration and performance on test day.
The Tests Aren’t The Only Important Thing
As important and helpful as the SAT and ACT tests can be, they aren’t the only criteria admissions officers use. Please remind your student to focus on several elements of their background during the admissions process.
As an admissions officer, I also looked at:
- High school GPA
- Course rigor (how hard courses are, such as honors, AP, etc.)
- Extracurricular involvement
- Leadership
- Community service
- Essays
- Letters of recommendation
- Interviews
A standardized test score that isn’t stellar isn’t the end of the road. And always remember that students may retake the SAT or ACT if they believe they can improve their scores.
When to Take the Tests
Registration deadlines are several weeks prior to each testing date. Encourage your student to register early. This lets them choose a convenient testing location, and prepare everything needed for test day well in advance.
Many students take their first SAT and ACT (not including the PSAT test—a great practice opportunity) during the spring of junior year, leaving time for a retake before college application deadlines—even early action deadlines—if desired.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the SAT or ACT is not just memorizing formulas or vocabulary words. Success comes from steady preparation, thoughtful practice, and confidence built over time.
As a parent, your encouragement, organization, and emotional support can make a tremendous difference. And this will take them one step closer to finding the right college for them.
