Score improvement depends on your starting point and study commitment, but most students see meaningful gains with focused preparation. Typical improvements range from 2-4 composite points on the ACT (out of 36) or 100-200 points on the SAT (out of 1600) over 8-12 weeks of consistent practice. The key is identifying your weak areas—whether that's pacing on reading sections, specific math topics, or test anxiety—and targeting those through practice tests and strategic review.

Reading comprehension and pacing are common challenges on both tests, though they show up differently—the ACT's reading section moves faster with shorter passages, while the SAT has longer passages requiring deeper analysis. Math sections trip up students who haven't practiced the specific question formats or who rush through problems without checking work. Working with a tutor helps you identify whether your issue is content knowledge, time management, or test-taking strategy, then address it directly.

Practice tests are essential—they're the most accurate way to identify weak areas, get comfortable with test timing, and build confidence before test day. Full-length practice tests should be part of your regular study routine, ideally taken under timed conditions to simulate the real experience. Between full tests, targeted practice on specific sections or question types helps you apply strategies and reinforce content without burnout.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliarity with the format or worry about pacing—both things that improve dramatically with practice. Working through full-length practice tests, learning time-management strategies specific to each section, and developing a pre-test routine all build confidence. Tutors can also teach breathing and mental reset techniques to use during the exam if anxiety creeps in, helping you refocus on the questions rather than the pressure.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Raleigh who specialize in standardized test prep and can tailor instruction to your goals—whether you're preparing for the ACT, SAT, or both. During your initial session, you can discuss your target score, timeline, and specific challenges so your tutor creates a personalized study plan. Many students in Raleigh benefit from combining group classes with one-on-one sessions to address their unique weak areas.

Most students benefit from 5-10 hours per week of focused study over 8-12 weeks leading up to test day, though this varies based on your starting score and target. Consistency matters more than cramming—regular practice with targeted review of weak areas builds skills and confidence better than last-minute intensive study. Your tutor can help you create a realistic study schedule that fits your school commitments and other activities.

Most students start prep 2-3 months before their test date, though some begin earlier if they're aiming for highly competitive scores or need to address significant weak areas. Juniors often take the SAT or ACT in spring, making fall an ideal time to start preparation. Starting early gives you time to take multiple practice tests, identify patterns in your mistakes, and build test-taking stamina without feeling rushed.