WHEN TO START SAT OR ACT PREP: A PARENT’S GUIDE TO COLLEGE TEST PLANNING

If you’re a parent of a high schooler, you’ve likely wondered: When is the right time to start preparing for the SAT, ACT, or other college entrance exams? The short answer: earlier than you think — but never too late to make a difference.

For most students, the summer before their junior year is the ideal time to prep. They’ve covered most of the math tested on the SAT/ACT, and starting now allows plenty of time to build skills without last-minute pressure.

Other students, however, may benefit from an earlier start. Here are a few key signs that you child should start earlier:

• Your student is aiming for top schools or scholarships

  • Competitive colleges and merit aid often expect standout scores. Early prep allows time for improvement and retesting if needed.

• Your student has an academically rigorous high school curriculum that will demand all of their focus in the junior year.

  • With APs, extracurriculars, and college visits, test prep can easily fall through the cracks. Starting early helps balance the load.

• Your student struggles with standardized tests

  • Some students need extra time to build confidence and test-taking strategies. Identifying challenges early can lead to better outcomes.

Regardless of your student’s circumstances, make sure to set aside plenty of time for prep. The best prep is steady and personalized, not crammed. A 4–6 month runway allows for meaningful progress, so think strategically about the ideal time for your student’s first official test date and work backwards to set the timeline.

At Bowie Strategies, we specialize in high-impact, individualized prep for students aiming high. Whether your child is just getting started or needs a final push, we’re here to guide the way.

Want to talk through the best plan for your student? Set up a free consultation!