Why should you take your SAT/ACT early?
The SAT and ACT, unlike any school subject, cannot be taken by cramming your study guides or class notes. The main objective of these tests is to gauge your analytical skills, reading comprehension, and ability to write and process standard English. Although it is not required to take these tests until your junior year, you can ensure a higher score by starting early. It is highly recommended for students to complete it by their sophomore year. Here’s why…
-
Starting preparation as early as your eighth grade or freshman year gives you ample time to master reading comprehension and writing concepts.
​
-
Also, taking a couple of tests in your freshman year helps you identify areas of strength and weakness in reading, writing and mathematics. Moreover, it gives you a better idea of your time management skills in real time. You can use the scores from these tests as a base line score, and focus on areas of weakness and prepare accordingly.
​​
-
Usually when students take the SAT and ACT in their junior year, they are also loaded with multiple AP classes. The tests add to the already existing pressure of studying to maintain a higher GPA on AP courses and the after school activities. This inevitable places a huge constraint on preparation time for tests, thereby decreasing their efficiency to perform well.
​
-
Last but not least, checking your SAT/ACT off the list can allow you to focus more on other aspects of your college application such as your school clubs and application essays, increasing you chances of admission into your dream school.
​
Good luck!