Score improvement varies based on your baseline and effort, but students typically see 100-200 point increases when they engage fully with the material and practice consistently. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's pacing on reading passages, algebra concepts, or test anxiety—and targeting those directly. Working with a tutor helps you avoid wasting time on skills you've already mastered and focus energy where it matters most.

Reading and Writing tends to trip up many students because it requires both speed and precision—you need to understand complex passages quickly while catching subtle grammar rules. Math challenges often center around algebra, word problems, and time management rather than conceptual difficulty. A personalized 8-week program can diagnose your specific trouble spots and build targeted strategies, whether that's improving reading comprehension speed or mastering problem-solving approaches.

You should aim for 4-6 full-length practice tests spread throughout your 8 weeks—roughly one every 10-14 days—so you can track progress and adjust your strategy as needed. Early tests help identify weak areas; later tests let you practice applying what you've learned and build test-day stamina. Between full tests, targeted practice on specific sections or question types keeps your skills sharp without overwhelming your schedule.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about pacing, so building confidence through repeated practice is your best tool. An 8-week prep class teaches you concrete strategies—like how to manage time on each section, when to skip difficult questions, and how to reset mentally between sections. Practicing under timed, test-like conditions also reduces anxiety because the format becomes familiar rather than intimidating.

Timing strategy depends on your strengths: strong readers might spend more time on complex passages, while others benefit from skimming strategically. The Reading and Writing section (154 minutes for 52 questions) requires about 2.5 minutes per question, while Math (80 minutes for 58 questions) averages roughly 1.5 minutes per question. An 8-week prep course teaches you to practice with a timer, identify your optimal pace, and develop backup strategies for when you hit a tough question.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors experienced in SAT prep who can work with your schedule and learning style. You'll discuss your current score, target score, and any specific challenges—like math anxiety or reading speed—so you're matched with someone who specializes in those areas. The process is straightforward: tell us what you need, and we'll find the right fit for your 8-week intensive.

Taking a full practice SAT is the best starting point—it shows you exactly which question types, topics, or sections are causing problems and how much time you're spending on each. Many students discover they lose points on specific math concepts (like quadratics or systems of equations) or reading strategies (like finding main ideas in dense passages) rather than across the board. Your tutor can then use this diagnostic information to prioritize your 8-week study plan for maximum impact.