How the Free School Day SAT Can Derail Your Application Plans

What You Need to Know Before Finalizing Your Testing Schedule

Standardized test scores from the SAT, ACT, or AP/IB exams provide a metric that colleges use to more easily compare academic preparedness across all students. Additionally, test scores are a helpful supplement to a student's GPA and academic history, and can either back up strong grades or demonstrate that students may not be prepared for the rigor of college-level classes. Don't rely solely on a strong rank or GPA—ensure that your SAT/ACT score lines up and supports your profile as well! 

In this blog post, we’ll tackle the task of determining the best testing schedule and study methods for you, and review crucial tips to maximize your chances of success. 

Upcoming Tests

There are two opportunities for official SAT test dates coming up in March:

1. The regular March SAT exam on March 14, which includes the same fees and requirements as other official tests.

2. SAT School Day, an official SAT that is free for current juniors and administered through their high school.*

   *Not all high schools participate in the School Day test, so students need to check with their school and determine if and when the test will be held. 

Students often view the School Day SAT as another free “practice” test, with little bearing on their overall application plans. However, students need to be aware that the School Day test does count as an official test, and you will be required to report your score to colleges that request all scores. 

No matter which test you sign up for, you should always be thoughtful and strategic with your testing plans. Take a close look at your schedule to determine if you have any commitments (i.e., major projects, travel, extracurricular events) in the weeks leading up to either test date before choosing your test and registering. If you end the test feeling unsure or doubtful that you scored well, it is strongly recommended that you immediately cancel your score or risk it being reported among your official results. 

Preparation Methods

While you’re deciding when and how to prepare, keep these methods in mind: 

1. Structured Classes

Structured classes are ideal for students who need a complete overview of all content that will be covered and comprehensive strategies for each question type they will encounter. Longer classes are ideal for an introduction to the SAT, while shorter classes will provide students with the chance to brush up on content they may be less sure about. Classes can be amazing opportunities for students who need a strong foundation or additional support and guidance through the prep process, including required homework assignments which ensure that you’re making progress both in and out of the classroom. Check out B2A’s class options here!

2. 1:1 Tutoring

If you feel like you work best in a 1:1 environment with personalized feedback, tutoring might be the best fit for you. Individual tutoring is also most helpful for students who consistently struggle with particular question types or concepts, but who don’t need a complete overview of everything that will be included on the test. Tutoring is an effective supplement to structured classes, and many students take a class first before advancing to 1:1 tutoring for a final boost before test day.

3. Self-Studying 

Self studying provides students with a flexible and customizable option for completing SAT prep. However, this method is only a reasonable option if students are absolutely confident in their ability to hold themselves accountable for studying on their own and trust themselves to make consistent progress for all sections and question types. Students should take time to realistically evaluate their schedules, mindsets, and priorities before deciding to stick solely to self-studying. You should also keep in mind that self-studying can be a beneficial supplement to structured preparation methods, and all students should prioritize some amount of studying on their own in addition to a class or tutoring. 

Other Tips

Regular, scheduled diagnostic tests are your friend! When you are creating your test prep plan, be sure to schedule recurring days to take full diagnostic exams. This tool allows you to assess your progress on a regular basis and analyze the passage and question types you are consistently struggling with. Not only does this keep you aligned with your projected score, it also ensures that you focus your prep on the areas that will be most beneficial to you. 

***TIP: The most effective and sure-fire way to improve your SAT reading score on your own is to READ! Check out this list of book recommendations that will familiarize you with the language used in SAT questions for maximum improvement:

• Shakespeare - Hamlet and Macbeth 

• F. Scott Fitzgerald - The Great Gatsby

• Jane Austen - Pride and Prejudice

• Charlotte Bronte -  Jane Eyre

• Emily Bronte - Wuthering Heights

• Charles Dickens - Great Expectations and A Tale of Two Cities

Deciding Your Schedule

From late January, students have around seven weeks to focus their efforts towards SAT prep for the March 14 official SAT, or a few additional weeks for their school day test date. Based on the information above and an evaluation of your learning style, you should be able to decide which prep methods are the best fit for you. The next step is for you to create a schedule and timeline in which you will complete practice and dedicate time to studying. 

It can be helpful to create a detailed schedule like the one provided below to visualize the weeks leading up to the test. Keep in mind that by enrolling in a structured class, you will already be following a detailed schedule that ensures you cover all necessary content. 

If you are aiming to take either SAT in March, you should book tutoring or enroll in a class now. You need to maximize the short time that remains to prepare, and you don’t have time to waste.

As the 2027 admissions cycle creeps closer, it’s vital that current juniors feel secure and confident in their test prep plan. While every aspect of a student’s profile plays an important role in their admissions chances, standardized test scores are a component that should never be overlooked. Let’s make sure that you’re prepared for the upcoming SAT test dates and in a position to achieve your goal score on your next try!

Our 16-week  Signature SAT Class provides a comprehensive overview of all test content and a structured preparation plan. For students who need a quicker brush-up, check out our Cram Classes that occur in the weeks immediately leading up to an exam date. If you already know what you need to work on, then reach out today to book tutoring hours with one of our expert reading and math tutors. 

Contact Berkeley2 Academy today to take the first step towards achieving your goal score and gaining acceptance to your dream school!