Junior Year: Winter, Step 2

Scared you’ll bomb the SAT or ACT? Make a test prep plan today to avoid such a disaster.

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“Before anything else, preparation is the key to success.”

- Alexander Graham Bell

Our good friend Alex was on to something when he said this. Think about the last time you didn’t study for a test or prepare for a presentation. How’d that work out?

Standardized tests are no different. Without sufficient preparation, many students crash and burn.

Here are some simple steps to get you started:

• Step 1: Find out if your prospective colleges require the SAT, ACT, or SAT Subject Tests. Generally, all colleges accept both the SAT and ACT these days, but some might have preferences based on geography. Consult the college’s website or your counselor for specific information.

• Step 2: Decide when and where you’re going to take your first test.

• Step 3: Register for that test. Ask your counselor if you qualify for a fee waiver. Remember, there’s no penalty for registering early so once you know when you want to take it, sign up as soon as you can. There IS a penalty ($) for late registration however.

2012 test dates are:

SAT

Exam Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration

March 10, 2012 | Feb 10, 2011 | Feb 24, 2011
May 5, 2012 | Apr 6, 2011 | Apr 20, 2011
June 2, 2012 | May 8, 2011 | May 22, 2011

ACT

Exam Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration

April 14, 2012 | March 9, 2012 | March 23, 2012
June 9, 2012 | May 6, 2012 | May 18, 2012

• Step 4: Load up on test prep materials. Free materials like sample tests, and are available at your school, public library, local community colleges, or, of course, the Internet.

• Step 5: Take your first full-length practice test. Use real timers and real test rules.

• Step 6: Self-reflect. Which parts did you find difficult? Did you have time issues? What did you find surprising? Note your conclusions.

• Step 7: Cross your fingers and score your test.

• Step 8: Find out where you did well and where you did not-so-well. Focus on these poor areas as you proceed with your test prep.

• Step 9: If you (or your parents) think you need it, sign up for professional tutoring or test prep services.

• Step 10: Rinse and repeat, for more practice or for different tests.

Related Tools and Checklists

High School Junior Timeline and Checklist
High School Senior Timeline and Checklist

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