Preparing for the SAT can feel daunting, but a well-organized SAT study plan can set you up for success. Whether you’re working with prep books, online courses, or other helpful resources, the key is to create a personalized schedule that fits your timeline and goals. In this article, we’ll walk you through essential SAT study tips, recommended timelines, and easy-to-use templates to help you plan your study routine and boost your confidence on test day.

What is the SAT?

The SAT is a 3-hour entrance exam used by colleges and universities to evaluate applicants. It includes two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, with an optional essay. The test is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600, with higher scores improving your chances at competitive schools. For example, Harvard’s average SAT score is around 1470. To perform well, it’s crucial to prepare with a solid study plan.

SAT study plan templates for different timelines

To plan your SAT study routine, download our 8-week and 4-week Intensive Study Plan templates. These templates will help you visualize your study schedule for your upcoming test date.

How to study for the SAT

Preparing for the SAT is one of the ways a student can increase their chances of success. With so much information out there it can be hard to know which resources are the most reliable. There are many ways you can prepare for the exam and make it fit into your schedule. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when creating your study plan.

1. Choose a test date

SAT test dates are put out months in advance. You can find these test dates on College Board. By selecting a test date you are giving yourself a deadline to be prepared by. You should be choosing a date that fits into your schedule and will give you enough time to really study and prepare. Selecting a test date one month out won’t be very beneficial. A test date that is about two months away will give you more than enough time to study and prepare.

Additionally, you should be selecting a test date that will give you enough time to have your scores submitted to the schools. If the deadline for a school application is December 1st and the SAT isn’t until November 28th, that’s not going to give you enough time before the deadline.

2. Get a baseline score

Before actually taking the SAT, take a practice test to see what your baseline score is without any preparation. This will give you a good idea of what your biggest strengths and weaknesses are and how much preparation you actually need to do well on this test.

3. Find SAT resources

Many SAT preparation materials, including free resources like College Board practice tests and Khan Academy SAT prep, are available to help you create the best SAT study plan. For students seeking more structured prep, The Princeton Review and Kaplan are two excellent resources that offer comprehensive SAT courses and tutoring services.
In addition, some high schools provide SAT prep as a class. Be sure to check with your guidance counselor to see if this is offered at your school.

4. Tackle the SAT material

Now that you’ve set a test date and identified your baseline score, it’s time to start preparing. Focus on the areas where you need the most improvement and break your study time into manageable weekly goals. It’s common to take the SAT more than once, so after each test, review your results and adjust your study plan as needed.

No matter where you are in the process, consistent preparation is key. Utilize SAT prep books, online courses, and resources to build a study plan that aligns with your academic goals and timeline.

What is an SAT study schedule and why do you need one?

Although many colleges are adopting test-optional admission policies, submitting impressive SAT scores can increase your chances of being admitted to competitive schools. This is why it’s important to have a study plan for the SATs and to review SAT tips. In order to maximize your time and effort, use this article to come up with an SAT prep plan that is well-suited for you and your individual scheduling and academic needs.

How to build a successful SAT study plan: A 6-step guide

In this article, we’ll review effective study habits and strategies for the SATs. We’ll also list valuable resources — such as an SAT study plan PDF as well as where to source your practice exams — to help you prepare.

1. Determine your baseline score

Before starting your SAT study plan, take an SAT practice test to determine your baseline score. While doing so, try to replicate real test conditions by working in a quiet space, timing each section, and using an SAT-approved calculator for the math portions. This will help you create a targeted study plan that aligns with your goals and gets you closer to your target score during the college application process. If you’re wondering whether a one-month SAT study plan is realistic, your baseline score will help you decide if that timeline is feasible.

2. Determine your target score​

Research the average SAT test scores of admitted students on your college list. To be considered a competitive applicant, your SAT scores should fall between the 25th and 75th percentile.

Make a list of the colleges you are applying to and their respective 25th and 75th percentile test scores. Determine which school has the highest 75th percentile; this should be your SAT target score. Find the difference between your baseline and target scores. This point margin will be key in calculating how many hours you should study to meet your target scores.

Now that you know your point differential, you’re that much closer to comparing and contrasting study plans and timelines. Are your study needs well-suited to an SAT study plan for 1 month? Read more to find out!

3. Schedule your exam​

Plan ahead and schedule your SAT exam early, taking into account any potential scheduling conflicts when you review the SAT test date options. Make sure to give yourself enough time to study and to retake your SATs before college application deadlines.

If you’re a senior planning to take the SATs, it’s especially important to determine whether your scores will be available before your college deadlines. Otherwise, you may risk having your application disqualified. Generally, unless you’re applying Early Action or Early Decision, any SAT test in the fall should give you enough time.

4. Determine your timeline

Find the difference between your baseline and target SAT scores. The number of points you aim to improve by will help determine how many hours you need to study before taking the SATs. Refer to the list below to help you get a better sense of how many hours you should be studying to reach your target score.

0-30 points: 10 hours
30-70 points: 20 hours ​
70-130 points: 40 hours ​
130-200 points: 80 hours​
200+ points: 150 hours​

Depending on your schedule and learning style, consider pursuing an 8-week intensive SAT study plan or a 4-week intensive SAT study plan.

5. Choose an SAT study plan​

Remember, it’s important to pace yourself when studying for the SATs. Aim to study for 45 to 90 minutes at a time.

Make sure you give yourself enough time to reach your study goals. For example, if you need to improve your score by 75 points, you’ll need to study for 40 hours. This means that if you’re looking for a one-month SAT study plan, you’ll need to set aside an amount of time of 10 hours per week to study. Maybe this feels manageable, or maybe this doesn’t. Perhaps a 2-month SAT study plan, where you allot 5 hours per week to studying, is more realistic. Alternatively, if you give yourself 3 months to study for the SAT, you’ll only need to study for 2.5 hours per week.

There’s no right or wrong timeline. Find what works best for you. Remember, despite your best intentions, being a high school student is often demanding, especially if you’re involved in extracurricular activities. Keep this in mind as you create your ideal SAT study plan.

6. Gather study materials

Use official SAT materials from College Board and Khan Academy. Free practice tests and prep videos are great starting points. If needed, invest in prep books or tutoring. But remember, a large component of studying for the SAT is familiarizing yourself with the test format. So, if you choose to use outside sources, the practice questions may not accurately reflect the true nature of the test which will not make you feel prepared while taking the SAT.

3 example SAT prep schedules to choose from

When creating your SAT study plan, it’s important to choose a timeline that best fits your goals and schedule. There are several options to consider, including 1-month, 2-month, and 3-month SAT study plans, each designed to cater to different needs. If you’re looking to improve by 200+ points, a 6-month SAT study plan may be most appropriate. If you’re looking for more moderate improvements of 130 to 200 points, a 3-month SAT study plan is ideal. For smaller score improvements of 30 to 70 points, a 1 month SAT study plan may be the best fit for you to follow. Each of these plans provides a clear structure for preparing effectively, helping you stay on track and focused.

Choosing the right SAT practice schedule for yourself

There are lots of factors to consider when choosing the right SAT schedule and plan for you. Review the tips below to help your plan ahead for this college application season.

Plan ahead

Take a practice exam and identify your goals and target score early. There are lots of SAT study plans and schedules to consider. To determine the best fit, consider how many hours you will need to study and realistically how many hours you can study per week.

Gather the best resources for you

There are lots of SAT study resources to choose from. Find what works best for you! Take free SAT practice tests and sign up for the SAT question of the day through the College Board website. Visit the Khan Academy’s website as well for other free resources. Buy yourself an SAT prep book, such as the Official SAT Study Guide. Consider signing up for an SAT prep course or SAT tutoring, especially if you’re struggling with a particular section.

Commit to a regular study schedule

High school is a busy time with lots of demands on your schedule. To balance everything and manage your time wisely, commit to a regular study schedule. This will help keep you on track, as well as help you avoid procrastination and last-minute studying.

It’s okay if you need to adapt your study routine on occasion as other responsibilities arise. Your ideal SAT study plan should be adaptable and fit into your other schedules and routines. By having a consistent, baseline schedule, you’re most likely to maximize your time and efforts. Remember to allot extra time to focus on the sections you find more difficult.

Key takeaways on planning ahead for SAT success

Preparing for the SAT doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you follow a structured SAT study plan tailored to your needs. With the right approach, you can optimize your study time and increase your chances of reaching your target score. Whether you have a few weeks or several months to prepare, these customizable study schedules, combined with the right SAT prep resources, will set you up for success.

Remember, consistent practice and reviewing your progress are key. Start today by downloading our SAT study plan templates and setting your study goals. The sooner you start, the more confident you’ll feel on test day!

FAQs about SAT study plans

The best SAT study plan is one that fits your schedule and target score. Whether you need a 1-month SAT study plan or a 3-month schedule, focus on your weaker areas while balancing your strengths.

Studying for the SAT in two weeks is possible if you're looking for a small score improvement. However, it’s recommended to have at least a month to review all sections and take multiple practice tests.

Start by determining your baseline score with a practice exam. Then, set a target score based on the colleges you’re applying to. Use this gap to decide how many hours you need to study and create a schedule that fits into your routine. Our SAT study plan templates can help you map out your timeline based on your goals.

There are many great resources for SAT prep, including the College Board's official practice tests, Khan Academy, and prep books like "The Official SAT Study Guide." For students who need additional help, hiring an SAT tutor or joining an SAT prep course can also be beneficial.

Most students take the SAT 2-3 times. Retaking the test gives you a chance to improve your score, as studies show that students often improve on their second attempt. However, taking the SAT too many times can be stressful and costly, so it's important to be well-prepared each time.

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