Score improvement depends on your starting point, effort, and the areas you focus on. Students typically see meaningful gains of 2-4 points on the ACT or 100-200 points on the SAT with consistent, targeted practice over 8-12 weeks. The key is identifying your specific weak areas—whether that's reading comprehension, math concepts, or test pacing—and addressing them systematically with expert guidance.

Reading comprehension and timing are common challenges on both tests, though the formats differ. Many Columbia students also struggle with SAT math word problems or ACT science reasoning. An all-in-one class helps you tackle these section-specific obstacles with targeted strategies: learning to manage time effectively, breaking down complex questions, and building confidence in weaker areas before test day.

Practice tests are essential—they reveal your actual strengths and weaknesses, build test-day stamina, and help you refine timing strategies. Taking full-length practice tests under timed conditions mimics the real exam experience and shows which sections need more focus. Expert tutors use practice test results to create personalized study plans, so you're not wasting time on content you already know.

Test anxiety often stems from unfamiliar question formats or uncertainty about timing. Exposure to practice tests, learning proven test-taking strategies, and understanding exactly what to expect on test day significantly reduce anxiety. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction also builds confidence by addressing your specific concerns and celebrating progress, helping you approach test day with a calm, focused mindset.

Varsity Tutors connects Columbia students with experienced tutors who specialize in standardized test prep and understand both the ACT and SAT formats. When you get matched with a tutor, you'll work with someone who can diagnose your specific challenges, teach effective strategies for each section, and create a personalized study schedule that fits your timeline and goals.

Most students benefit from 5-10 hours of focused preparation per week over 8-12 weeks, though this varies based on your starting score and target goals. Consistency matters more than marathon study sessions—regular practice with targeted feedback helps concepts stick and prevents burnout. A tutor can help you create a realistic study schedule that balances test prep with your other commitments as a Columbia student.

The ACT emphasizes speed and covers science reasoning, while the SAT focuses on deeper reading comprehension and includes more complex math. Many students naturally perform better on one than the other. An all-in-one class lets you take practice versions of both tests early on, compare your results, and make an informed choice about which test to focus on—or even take both if colleges you're considering prefer it.