I am a Sophomore in high school and I want to get into an Ivy League like Columbia, Princeton, or UPenn. What should my plan be? This should include Sophomore PSAT in October, Junior PSAT and trying to become a National Merit Finalist, SAT(s), college applications. I want to know when I should get take those tests, how to prepare for them, when to get some SAT tutoring. When to apply for college etc. New SAT or Old SAT, I don’t know difference, difference between SAT and PSAT. Participating in school activities, volunteering. Good courses to take (I plan on taking the highest levels). Also, I’m planning to be away for 1.5 months the summer between Sophomore year and Junior year. And what about ACTs, when to take those and what are those? How many SATs, ACTs, or PSATs can I take? Subject tests?
Since you’re a sophomore this year, you won’t be able to take the old SAT since the new one is being implemented in the beginning of 2016. The PSAT that you will take in October will also be for the new SAT. The PSAT is basically a “rehearsal” SAT test. It’s also shorter than the actual SAT. As for whether you should take the SAT, ACT, or both, you should talk to your school counselor. You’re also asking a lot of questions that can be easily answered through a quick google search or just by asking your counselor. Best of luck.
You’re too young for the old SAT unless you are ready to take it this year. For the PSAT and New SAT, study khanacademy.org. There aren’t many other options at this point. There are lots of study resources for the ACT. Take all tests during your Junior year and again in your Senior year if you want to improve your score. PSAT is just an easier version of the SAT and the qualifying test for National Merit. Your plan should be-- good grades, high test scores, leadership positions, community service, and extracurricular activities all the while realizing that the ivies will still be a reach. Also, make sure your family is financially prepared for your schools of choice.