Why High School Students Shouldn’t Prepare For The May SAT!

As May approaches, high school students find themselves overwhelmed with academic responsibilities. Between Advanced Placement (AP) exams and final exams, students feel very under pressure. Adding SAT preparation to this packed schedule can be counterproductive and even detrimental to academic performance.

Instead, postponing SAT preparation until summer is a more strategic and effective approach. Here’s why:

  1. Students can prioritize AP tests and finals

    May is an important month for high school students. AP exams, which can earn college credit and strengthen college applications, require extensive preparation. Final exams, which have a significant impact on GPA, also demand studying. Attempting to juggle SAT prep alongside these pivotal tests can decrease efforts and lead to suboptimal performance in all areas.

    Students can maximize their performance in these crucial areas by dedicating their full attention to AP and final exams in May. Once the academic year concludes, they can shift their focus to the SAT without distractions, ensuring a more effective preparation period.

  2. Financial and time efficiency

    SAT preparation is a significant investment of both time and money. Many students enroll in prep courses, hire Academic Coaches, or purchase study materials—all of which require dedicated effort to be effective. If students are already overwhelmed with academic responsibilities in May, their ability to absorb and retain SAT study strategies will be limited. This can result in wasted time and money, as they may not be able to fully commit to the preparation process.

    On the other hand, summer provides a more relaxed and distraction-free environment. Without the burden of schoolwork, students can dedicate their full attention to the SAT, making their test preparation more efficient and productive. Investing in test prep during the summer ensures that students can get the most out of their resources, leading to better results on test day.

  3. Strategic long-term planning

    For 10th and 11th graders, summer SAT prep offers distinct advantages that extend beyond the immediate test. Preparing over the summer serves as a strong foundation for the PSAT in October. A well-prepared student has a better chance of qualifying for the National Merit Scholarship, which can provide financial aid and prestige in college applications.

    Additionally, summer test preparation allows students to spread out their SAT studying, reducing the pressure to cram. With ample time to refine skills and strategies, they can take multiple practice tests, identify weak areas, and work on improving them without the stress of impending school deadlines.

The best approach: A smart study timeline

Rather than rushing into SAT preparation in May, students should take this strategic approach:

  • May: Focus on AP exams and finals. Prioritize coursework and maintain strong grades.

  • June - August: Dedicate time to SAT prep, utilizing resources like prep books, online courses, and practice tests.

  • October: Take the PSAT with confidence, benefiting from summer SAT preparation.

  • Fall/Winter: Register for an SAT administration, applying refined skills from summer study sessions.

By following this timeline, students can ensure they are well-prepared for the SAT while maintaining high academic performance in their coursework.

Prepare for the right tests at the right time

Preparing for the SAT is a big step in the college admissions process, but timing matters. Trying to balance SAT prep with AP exams and finals in May can lead to unnecessary stress and diluted focus. 

By postponing SAT preparation until the summer, students can maximize their efficiency, improve their scores, and achieve a healthier academic-life balance. Instead of stretching themselves too thin, students should take an effective approach and use the summer to their advantage. 

The result? A stronger SAT performance and a more successful academic experience.

Want to ensure you’re getting your best SAT score? Book some time with an Academic Coach today and get started on your best test prep yet.

 

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Sarah N.

I'm Sarah Julie, a dedicated wordsmith and storyteller. Over the past four years, I've immersed myself in the world of content marketing, refining my skills in copywriting, building short and long-form content, navigating various CMS platforms and driving MQLs to fuel company growth. My approach to crafting content is anchored in data-driven strategies, always aiming for impactful results. The path I'm on leads to the aspiration of becoming a CMO, and I'm committed to embracing continuous growth and learning along the way. I firmly believe that with persistence and ongoing education, I can attain remarkable achievements.

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