<p>So I'm a Junior this year and I took the Princeton Review Prep class this summer. My last score from prep was a 2030 which I was pretty happy with. But it's been 3 weeks since then and a few nights ago I took a practice test from the College Board 2010 book and only got a 1840 =[. </p>
<p>My teachers and counselors have been telling us it is best to take the SAT in January because of a bigger curve and also so that we can see our PSAT scores to know where we are. </p>
<p>But, I'm scared that the longer I wait the more I will forget and the more my score will drop! I know it's almost the deadline for October SAT sign ups but I just don't know what to do! </p>
<p>You should do your first real SAT in May of junior year. This allows you to have full year of knowledge before you do the test, and also gives you time to do it again in fall of senior year, with a full summer of practice.</p>
<p>Aren’t you going to prepare for the PSAT too? You have a good shot at getting up to the National Merit level. You will take the PSAT in October and you will probably get your scores back in December from your school.</p>
<p>I agree with your school that you should take the SAT in January and not wait until May to take it for the first time, unless you have not completed Algebra II. May is a very busy month and if you are taking any APs, then you will be preparing for them and starting those tests the Monday after the May SAT. </p>
<p>Many students take SAT II subject tests in May since they follow most school curriculums and are only 1 hour in length. There is a June SAT that you can take and then you will have 2 SATs done. You still have the opportunity to take the SAT or SAT IIs in the fall but you will also be doing college essays and applications.</p>