Should I take the SAT now?

Test Preparation
1

I am a sophomore in high school and just got my PSAT score back at a 1100 and my dad says that I should start studying for the SAT and take it in May.
I am kind of skeptical about this, but he says that it can’t hurt?
Will it ever hurt me down the line if I take it so soon?

2

What level math are you taking? I tend to think waiting until August would be better so you can prep over summer without worrying about homework and other activities.

3

I am currently in Algebra II

4

Have you considered the ACT as well? Have you taken an ACT practice test? I’d do that this year as well. Figure out which test works for you better.

5

I don’t think there is any benefit to taking it before August/September of Junior year (unless you’re going to be recruited as an athlete or something) and bear in mind that a small minority of colleges will require you to report all standardized test scores taken beginning freshman year. My advice is to start preparing this summer and take it in the fall. IMO the best way to practice is to take the official practice tests offered by Collegeboard (or ACT Inc if you choose to go that route), review any concepts that are fuzzy, and really scrutinize your mistakes to keep from repeating them on the real thing. Good luck and don’t stress about it (just yet anyway…)!

6

If you can afford the test, I would actually recommend taking it this year (after you have finished your Algebra II course) so that it’s fresh in your mind. It will allow you to get more familiar with the SAT format. Definitely do some studying beforehand. Like a previous poster said, I recommend taking practice tests through College Board and also Khan Academy (you can sync your scores to see what you should review).

Also, as a side note, I know students who are taking the PSAT/SAT really early on in hopes that they will be able to qualify for National Merit when they take the PSAT as a junior. If you are a very good test-taker, or willing to work very hard to achieve this, you might look into it. Some schools offer additional merit aid to National Merit Scholars; I know one university that even offers full-tuition.