Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort level. Students typically see 2-4 point gains on the ACT (36-point scale) or 100-200 point improvements on the SAT (1600-point scale) with focused preparation and practice. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's reading comprehension, math pacing, or test anxiety—and targeting those through strategic practice and feedback.

Your first session typically includes a diagnostic assessment to understand your current strengths and gaps across both tests. A tutor will review your practice test results, discuss your target score and timeline, and create a personalized study plan that addresses your specific challenges. This foundation helps ensure every session afterward is focused on what actually moves your score.

Pacing is one of the most common challenges students face. Tutors teach you section-specific timing strategies—like how to allocate minutes on the reading section versus math—and use timed practice tests to build your speed without sacrificing accuracy. You'll also learn which questions to tackle first, when to skip and return, and how to manage test anxiety that often leads to rushed mistakes.

Absolutely. Whether you struggle with reading comprehension, algebra, geometry, or grammar, tutors can focus on your exact pain points. For example, some students need help understanding question formats and trap answers in the reading section, while others need to strengthen their math fundamentals or learn time-saving techniques. Your personalized instruction targets these specific areas rather than generic test prep.

Practice tests are essential—they build test familiarity, reveal patterns in your mistakes, and help you develop realistic timing strategies. Most effective prep includes full-length practice tests every 1-2 weeks, followed by detailed review of every wrong answer to understand why you missed it. This cycle of testing, feedback, and targeted practice is what drives real score improvement.

Test anxiety is real and manageable. Tutors help by building your confidence through repeated practice in timed conditions, teaching breathing and mental strategies to stay calm, and addressing the root causes—often gaps in knowledge or unfamiliar question formats. As you practice more and feel more prepared, anxiety naturally decreases, and you perform closer to your actual ability.

Yes. Varsity Tutors connects Mesa students with expert tutors who specialize in ACT and SAT prep and understand both tests deeply. With over 119,000 students across Mesa's 37 school districts, we've worked with students from diverse backgrounds and academic levels, so tutors know how to adapt their approach to your specific needs and learning style.