Early Test, Less Stress: A Sophomore Parent’s Guide to Strategic SAT & ACT Planning

If you're the parent of a sophomore, you're likely starting to hear more about the SAT and ACT—and wondering when and how your student should begin preparing. The good news? Planning early can dramatically reduce stress and open up strategic advantages, especially as more colleges—including UT Austin, Yale, Dartmouth, and Penn—return to requiring test scores. Even at test-optional schools, strong scores can increase admissions odds, boost merit aid, and help your student stand out.



For many families, August and September test dates provide a key opportunity: they allow students to prepare during the quieter summer months and test before junior year picks up speed. This guide breaks down what every sophomore parent should know, with a focus on how to plan ahead for low-stress, high-impact testing.

Why Early Testing Makes a Difference

Standardized testing is making a strong comeback in college admissions. Schools that once de-emphasized scores are now recognizing their predictive value—especially for competitive majors like business, engineering, and computer science. A high test score doesn’t just validate academic readiness; it can also play a meaningful role in merit scholarship decisions and admission to selective programs.

For many families, the key is understanding that test-optional does not mean test-irrelevant. Starting early gives your student time to improve scores and gain confidence—without the pressure of looming application deadlines.


Why August and September Test Dates Matter

August and September are quickly becoming the sweet spot for students to take their first official SAT or ACT:

  • They allow students to prep over the summer, when they’re not juggling school, sports, and extracurriculars.
  • They’re early enough to support early action deadlines, like UT Austin’s October 15 priority deadline.
  • They give students more chances to retest—ideally hitting their top score before senior year begins.

These dates are also ideal for students who want to ease into testing without the pressure of mid-semester academic demands.


A Smart Testing Timeline for Sophomore Parents

Here’s a general plan to help your family navigate this process:


Spring of Sophomore Year

  • Start conversations about testing.
  • Schedule diagnostic SAT and ACT practice tests to see which exam is a better fit.
  • If your student may need accommodations due to a diagnosed learning difference, begin gathering documentation. The process for approval can take up to 7 weeks.


Summer Before Junior Year

  • Build a low-stress test prep schedule. Think weekly tutoring, self-study, or a mix of both.
  • Consider signing up for the August or September test dates.
  • Plan for one timed full-length practice test each month to build confidence.


Fall of Junior Year

  • Review results from summer testing.
  • Determine whether to prep for a second round of testing in October or beyond.
  • Use data to help refine your college list—especially for reach schools where test scores can tip the scale.


Supporting Neurodiverse Students

Students with learning differences may benefit from additional prep time, extended test time, or other accommodations. We recommend starting early conversations with your student’s counselor and testing specialist to secure the right support well ahead of test dates.


What Sophomore Parents Can Do Now

  • Get a diagnostic test on the calendar—free options are often available through test prep providers.
  • Start exploring prep options for summer that match your student’s pace and learning style.
  • Create a balanced schedule: test prep, rest, and fun should all have a place this summer.


By planning ahead and focusing on strategic early testing dates, your student can enter junior year with confidence—not chaos. Early testing isn’t just about scores—it’s about creating space, reducing pressure, and giving your student the best shot at the schools on their list.