Preparing for the SAT or ACT can feel overwhelming for many high school students, but parents play a vital role in helping their teens succeed. From providing encouragement to finding the right resources, the support you give can make a big difference in their confidence and performance. Here are some practical ways parents can guide their teens through the test prep journey.
1. Encourage Early Preparation
Many students begin standardized testing with the PSAT, which is often offered early in high school. The PSAT is more than just practice—it can also open doors to scholarships such as the National Merit Scholarship Program for high scorers. Encouraging your teen to prepare early helps them feel confident and sets the stage for stronger performance on the SAT or ACT later.
2. Help Them Choose the Right Test
Both the SAT and ACT are widely accepted by colleges, but the structure and focus of each test are slightly different. Take time with your teen to explore the format of each exam, review practice questions, and even consider taking practice tests for both. Understanding which test plays to your teen’s strengths can reduce stress and improve their results.
3. Find Study Resources That Fit Their Needs
Test prep doesn’t look the same for every student. Some teens may thrive with self-paced study guides and online resources, while others may need more structure through tutoring or group classes. If your budget allows, consider professional test prep programs or one-on-one tutoring. You can also connect with other parents whose children have already gone through the process to get recommendations and insight on what worked for them.
4. Create a Study Schedule Together
Consistency is key when it comes to preparing for the SAT or ACT. Help your teen set up a study schedule that balances schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and test prep. Even dedicating small, regular blocks of time each week can build strong test-taking skills and reduce last-minute cramming.
5. Provide Emotional Support
Standardized testing can bring added stress and pressure for teens. As a parent, offering reassurance and encouragement is just as important as providing resources. Remind your child that their test scores are only one part of their college application and that effort, persistence, and self-confidence also matter.
Supporting your teen through SAT or ACT preparation doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right mix of resources, structure, and encouragement, you can help your child feel prepared and confident on test day. By starting early and creating a supportive environment, you’re setting them up not just for a stronger score—but for long-term academic success.
Ready to help your teen succeed? At Advanced Test Prep, we offer personalized SAT and ACT tutoring designed to build confidence, improve scores, and make the college admissions process less stressful. Visit our website to learn how we can you this school year.
