Myth 1: Summer is too relaxed for meaningful prep.

Reality: Summer is the best time to prep.

During the school year, test prep competes with classes, sports, rehearsals, and everything else on your teen’s plate. That usually means late-night studying or rushed weekend cramming. In contrast, summer offers the time and mental space to prep consistently—without burnout.

Students can prepare in short, focused blocks and still enjoy their summer. The lower stress levels often lead to stronger retention and better results.

Myth 2: It’s better to wait until school starts to prep.

Reality: August and September test dates are ideal—but only with summer prep.

The August SAT and September ACT are strategically placed at the start of the school year. For rising seniors, these are the final opportunities to reach target scores before college applications are due. For rising juniors, they offer a low-pressure chance to build a baseline and potentially finish testing early.

But here’s the key: prep needs to happen before school resumes. Waiting until fall means losing valuable study time to school demands. Summer prep sets students up to walk into those test dates fully prepared and confident.

Myth 3: My student should just dive into test prep materials.

Reality: Every strong prep plan starts with a diagnostic test.

One of the biggest mistakes families make is jumping into prep without a clear starting point. That often leads to frustration, wasted time, or studying content the student already knows.

Summer gives families the breathing room to start with a full-length diagnostic SAT and ACT. Once you determine which test is the better fit, your student can follow a focused prep plan tailored to their needs—not a generic one-size-fits-all approach.

Myth 4: Practice tests can wait until the student feels ready.

Reality: Practice tests are how students get ready.

Many students avoid full-length practice tests because they seem intimidating. But they’re one of the most powerful prep tools available. Practice tests simulate the real thing, helping students build stamina, practice timing, and reduce anxiety.

Summer is an ideal time to take these tests—students are well-rested and have fewer distractions. We recommend at least two practice tests: one early in the prep cycle and one about three weeks before the official test. These tests help track progress and fine-tune strategy before the real thing.

Myth 5: If the first test doesn’t go well, we’ll just figure it out later.

Reality: Early prep gives you options and breathing room.

Testing is rarely a one-and-done situation. Starting in the summer gives your student multiple shots without panic. If they hit their goal in August or September, amazing—they’re done. If not, there’s time to reassess, retarget, and prep for another fall test without scrambling.



And strong scores submitted early can unlock merit scholarships, improve admission chances, and reduce stress as senior year picks up speed.