Score improvement depends on your starting point and effort, but students typically see 100-200 point gains on the SAT (out of 1600) or 2-5 point improvements on the ACT (out of 36) with focused preparation and practice. The key is identifying your weak areas early—whether that's reading comprehension, math pacing, or test anxiety—and targeting those through strategic practice and feedback from experienced tutors.

Reading and math require different strategies: reading sections demand active annotation and time management under pressure, while math needs both conceptual understanding and quick problem-solving. Tutors work with you to diagnose whether your struggles stem from content gaps, pacing issues, or careless mistakes—then tailor instruction accordingly. They'll also help you understand how each test formats these sections differently, so you're prepared for either exam.

Practice tests are essential—they help you get comfortable with the test format, build stamina for the full exam length, and identify patterns in the questions you miss. Tutors typically recommend taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions every 1-2 weeks, then reviewing them carefully to spot weak areas. This data-driven approach is much more effective than random studying, since you're focusing effort where it matters most.

Test anxiety often stems from feeling unprepared or uncertain about strategies. Working with a tutor helps you build genuine confidence through targeted practice, mastering test-taking techniques, and learning to manage time pressure. Regular practice tests also reduce anxiety by making the exam feel familiar, and tutors can teach you specific strategies—like pacing techniques and mental resets—to stay calm on test day.

Varsity Tutors connects you with tutors who have expertise in ACT and SAT prep and understand your specific goals—whether you're aiming for a particular score, taking one test or both, or focusing on specific sections. The matching process considers your learning style, schedule, and timeline, so you work with someone who can deliver the targeted instruction that fits your needs.

Most students benefit from 3-4 months of consistent preparation, though this varies based on your starting score and target goal. If you're preparing for both tests, you might need slightly longer to become comfortable with each format. Your tutor will help you create a realistic study schedule that balances thorough content review, practice tests, and targeted drilling on weak areas—all while fitting around your school commitments.

Your first session typically focuses on assessment and planning: you'll discuss your current scores (if available), target scores, test timeline, and any specific concerns—like math anxiety or reading speed. Your tutor may also have you work through a sample section to gauge your strengths and weaknesses, then outline a personalized study plan with clear milestones. This foundation ensures every session afterward builds directly toward your goals.