When to Start Studying for the SAT/ACT: A Parent's Guide
The Single Biggest Advantage in Test Prep Is Time. Here's Why Starting Early Matters.
Every year, thousands of high school juniors find themselves in a pressure cooker. They spend a few frantic months cramming for the SAT or ACT, juggling test prep with a demanding course load, extracurriculars, and a budding social life. The result is almost always the same: stress, burnout, and scores that don't reflect their true potential. But what if there was a different way? A calmer, more effective approach that leads to better scores and less anxiety?
The secret isn't a secret at all. It's simply starting earlier. By shifting the test prep timeline from a short sprint to a long-term, low-stress marathon, students can build a deep, lasting foundation of knowledge and skills. This isn't about adding more work; it's about spreading the work out intelligently over time. An early start, often in sophomore year or the summer before junior year, transforms test prep from a frantic chore into a manageable part of a student's academic life.
THE POWER OF A GRADUAL APPROACH
The SAT and ACT are not tests of intelligence; they are tests of specific skills and knowledge applied under pressure. These skills, like any others, are best developed through consistent, deliberate practice over time. A last-minute cram session might help with memorizing a few vocabulary words, but it does little to build the deep reading comprehension, mathematical reasoning, and critical thinking skills that lead to top scores.
Building a Strong Foundation
Starting early allows a student to first identify and then fill any gaps in their foundational knowledge. Does your child struggle with specific geometry concepts? Is their grasp of grammar rules a bit shaky? An early start provides ample time to address these weaknesses with targeted academic tutoring long before the pressure of the actual test sets in. This ensures that when they do begin focused test prep, they are building on solid ground.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
The psychological benefit of an early start cannot be overstated. When a student knows they have plenty of time, they can approach their preparation with a sense of calm and control. There's no need for late-night cramming or panicked study sessions. They can take breaks, enjoy their weekends, and maintain a healthy balance. This low-stress environment is far more conducive to effective learning and leads to greater confidence on test day. Many students find that working with our tutors in a gradual way makes the process feel less like a burden and more like a manageable project.
UNLOCKING MORE OPPORTUNITIES
Higher test scores do more than just strengthen a college application. They can open doors to scholarships, honors programs, and other opportunities. By maximizing their scores through an early and strategic prep plan, students give themselves the best possible chance to access these benefits. A few extra points on the SAT or ACT can translate into thousands of dollars in merit aid, making a significant difference in the overall cost of college.
If you're unsure where your child stands, a great first step is a practice test. Ivy Bound offers a free SAT/ACT Test Drive to help you get a baseline score and identify areas for improvement.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the ideal time to start test prep?
For most students, the summer before sophomore or junior year is a great time to start. This allows for a low-stress, gradual approach. However, even starting at the beginning of junior year is far better than waiting until the last minute.
Should my child prep for both the SAT and ACT?
Not necessarily. While the tests are similar, most students find they have a natural preference for one over the other. The best approach is to take a full-length practice test of each to see which one is a better fit. Our SAT vs. ACT comparison can help you understand the key differences.
How many hours a week should my child study?
With an early start, just 2-4 hours per week is often sufficient. The goal is consistency, not intensity. A little bit of focused work each week over many months is far more effective than cramming for 10-15 hours a week in the final stretch.
Can't my child just use free online resources?
While free resources can be helpful, they often lack the structure, personalized feedback, and expert guidance of a formal prep program. A structured program with an experienced tutor can identify a student's specific weaknesses and create a targeted plan for improvement, which is often a more efficient and effective approach.