I have not Decided whether I am going to focus on the SAT or ACT so i am wanting feedback for both.
I Wanted to know when people believe I should start to study for the tests and when I should first take the test. I Want to go an Elite College so I know I need a high score and will most likely have to take it at least twice.
I would take some practice tests (both ACT &SAT) end of summer /early fall of Junior year and get a baseline and to see which test you score better on. With 6-8 weeks prep/practice (going to vary by student) take your first real test in the fall. Once you get the score back, determine whether you need to take it again and what sections to work on.
I’m a perfect world, you will have all standardized done by the middle/end of your Junior year. Try not to wait until fall of Senior year as there will be tons of things to do (i.e. applications, essays, maybe last minute college visits, and likely maintaining a heavy rigorous course load, senior year ECs, etc.)
The bottom line is get the standardized testing (including subject tests, if needed) done Junior year.