When Should My Student Start SAT Prep? A Clear Guide for Parents and Teens

When is the best time to start studying for the SAT? 

Many parents and students worry about perfecting their SAT prep timing. The right preparations at the right time can mean the difference between feeling confident on test day and scrambling to try and cram at the last minute.

If you're curious about the ideal time to start studying for the SAT then keep reading. 

Why timing matters

Timing is everything when it comes to SAT prep. Starting too late often leads to rushed studying, added stress, and less time to improve. On the other hand, starting too early without a clear study plan can lead to burnout or wasted effort.

Maximizing test scores increases chances of acceptance at selective schools, improves scholarship opportunities, and makes student athletes that much more impressive off the field.

Since the SAT plays a significant role in college admissions, a well-thought-out prep timeline is essential to maximize their chances of success.

General timeline recommendations

Every student’s situation is different, but here are some guidelines as to what to do to prepare for the SAT during each year of high school.

Freshman year

Focus on building strong academic habits, especially in math, reading, and writing. There’s no need to dive into formal SAT prep yet, but freshman year is a great time to expand their vocabulary, read challenging texts, develop strong problem-solving skills, and strengthen critical thinking skills.

Sophomore year

This is the year to really start thinking about the SAT, especially in the second half of the year. Take a PSAT to get a feel for the test format and identify areas to work on. If your student scores well then they can begin light prep. If they have a long way to reach their target score, this is the ideal time to improve vocabulary, learn punctuation rules, and strengthen their algebra and geometry skills. 

Many students begin to study in earnest the summer after their sophomore year--especially if they took Algebra 2 during their sophomore year. If their summer isn’t jam-packed with camps, travel, work, or internships, then this is the SAT prep sweet spot.

Junior year

Most students begin serious SAT prep during their junior year. Starting 6–9 months before the first test date allows ample time to build skills, practice strategies, and reduce stress. Students typically take the SAT for the first time in the spring of junior year, leaving time for retakes in the summer and fall of senior year as needed.

Senior year

Students who need to improve their scores should retake the SAT in the fall of senior year. With college deadlines quickly approaching, this is the last chance to boost scores.

How to Get Started

Not sure how to kick off SAT prep? Here are some simple steps to get your student on track:

1. Take a diagnostic test - A practice SAT will help pinpoint your student’s strengths and weaknesses, so they can focus their efforts where it matters most.

2. Set goals - Determine a realistic target score based on the colleges your student is interested in.

3. Create a study schedule - Consistency is key! Build a prep plan that includes weekly study sessions, practice tests, and time to review mistakes.

4. Get help! If your student has a hard time sticking to a study plan, a dedicated test prep tutor can not only help them focus on the most important aspects but also help them build an effective study schedule and hold them accountable.

Every student’s SAT journey is unique, but starting at the right time can make all the difference. Whether your student is aiming for a top-tier school, hoping for a scholarship, or simply wants to feel confident walking into the test, a well-planned timeline is the foundation of success.

Need help deciding when your student should start SAT prep? Contact me today to create a customized study plan that fits their goals and schedule. Let’s make sure they’re ready to shine on test day!