Discover the best resources, strategies, and preparation tools to excel on standardized tests and open doors to college and career opportunities.
Standardized tests remain a critical component of college admissions, scholarship applications, and academic advancement. Strategic preparation can significantly improve your scores, expanding your educational and career opportunities while building valuable skills that extend beyond the test itself.
Strong test scores can significantly expand your college options and increase your chances of acceptance at competitive institutions. Many universities use standardized test scores as key factors in admissions decisions and merit scholarship awards.
Higher scores can translate directly into financial rewards. Many scholarship programs and institutional aid packages are tied to test performance, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in education costs and student loan debt.
Effective test preparation builds critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and time management skills that benefit you throughout college and beyond. The focused practice and disciplined study habits you develop will serve you in all academic endeavors.
Understanding the purpose, format, and importance of different standardized tests can help you determine which ones to focus on and how to prepare effectively.
Tests that assess college readiness and help determine admissions
Tests that can earn college credit while still in high school
Specialized exams for different purposes and paths
Discover the most effective test prep programs, tools, and services to help you achieve your highest possible scores on standardized tests.
Comprehensive, free test preparation for SAT, PSAT, and AP exams with personalized practice plans, full-length practice tests, and detailed performance analytics.
Official SAT partner; Thousands of practice questions; Personalized learning dashboard; Video lessons; Diagnostic quizzes; Full-length practice tests
Khan Academy's official partnership with College Board provides unparalleled access to authentic SAT practice materials. Their adaptive technology precisely identifies your weak areas and creates a personalized study plan. The detailed explanations for each question help build understanding rather than just memorization.
Comprehensive test preparation company offering courses, tutoring, and resources for SAT, ACT, AP exams, and more with proven score improvement guarantees.
Live online and in-person options; Expert instructors; Guaranteed score improvements; Extensive practice materials; Small group sizes; Personalized feedback
Princeton Review excels at teaching strategic approaches to each test, helping students identify patterns and shortcuts that boost efficiency. Their comprehensive programs combine content knowledge with test-taking psychology. The score improvement guarantee provides peace of mind for the significant investment.
Well-established test prep provider offering comprehensive preparation for all major standardized tests through various formats including live online courses, tutoring, and self-paced options.
Adaptive learning technology; Expert instructors; Official test questions; Higher score guarantee; Flexible scheduling; Over 80 years of experience
Kaplan's methodology is built on decades of research into effective test preparation. Their adaptive Qbank technology customizes practice questions based on your performance. Live online courses offer the perfect balance of structured learning and flexibility for busy students. Their comprehensive materials cover both content knowledge and strategic approaches.
Data-driven online test prep platform offering highly customized preparation for SAT, ACT, and other standardized tests with personalized study plans and adaptive practice.
Adaptive learning algorithm; Customized study schedules; 7,000+ practice questions; Score improvement guarantee; Weekly progress reports; Content and strategy focus
PrepScholar's strongest feature is its sophisticated algorithm that adapts to your learning needs. After a comprehensive diagnostic, the system creates a customized curriculum targeting your specific weaknesses. The extensive analytics help you understand exactly where you stand and what to focus on next. Their approach balances mastering content with learning test strategy.
Question bank and practice test platform known for high-quality, challenging practice questions with detailed explanations for SAT, ACT, AP exams, and more.
Realistic practice questions; Detailed answer explanations; Performance tracking; Timed practice tests; Mobile-friendly interface; Regularly updated content
UWorld stands out for its exceptionally high-quality practice questions that often match or exceed the difficulty of the actual tests. Their detailed explanations for every answer choice help you understand not just the correct answer, but why others are wrong. The clean, intuitive interface mimics the actual testing environment, building familiarity and reducing test-day anxiety.
The official online preparation program for the ACT, featuring authentic test questions, personalized learning paths, and practice tests from the test makers themselves.
Created by ACT test developers; Real practice questions; Full-length practice tests; Personalized study path; Mobile app access; Affordable pricing
As the official ACT preparation program, this resource provides the most authentic practice experience available. The questions precisely match the style, difficulty, and content of the actual test. The personalized study plan adapts based on your performance, focusing your efforts where improvement is most needed. The game center adds an element of fun to keep students engaged.
Budget-friendly online test prep platform featuring video lessons, practice questions, and study schedules for SAT, ACT, GRE, and other standardized tests.
Affordable pricing; Video explanations; Score predictor; Mobile app; Study schedules; Score improvement guarantee; Email support
Magoosh delivers exceptional value with high-quality prep materials at an affordable price point. Their video explanations are particularly helpful for visual learners who benefit from seeing problems solved step-by-step. The customizable study schedules help students stay organized and consistent with their preparation, while the mobile app enables study on the go.
Renowned publisher of test preparation books and online resources covering virtually every standardized test with comprehensive content review and practice questions.
Comprehensive subject coverage; Known for challenging practice; Print and digital formats; Expert author team; Decades of experience; Regular updates
Barron's test prep materials are known for their thoroughness and academic rigor. Their practice questions often exceed the difficulty of the actual tests, preparing students for worst-case scenarios. The combination of traditional books with online resources provides flexibility for different learning styles. Their AP exam guides are particularly strong, with detailed content reviews and test-taking strategies.
Direct from the test makers, this official SAT preparation resource provides authentic practice tests, sample questions, and detailed score reports.
Created by test developers; Eight full-length practice tests; Instant score reports; Official study guides; Free resources; Interactive score reporting
Nothing beats practicing with materials created by the actual test developers. The College Board's official practice tests precisely mirror the content, format, and difficulty of the real SAT. Their detailed score reports break down performance by question type and difficulty, helping identify specific areas for improvement. These resources are essential for any serious SAT preparation plan.
Online tutoring platform offering personalized one-on-one test preparation with expert tutors for all major standardized tests, alongside free practice tests and resources.
Live 1-on-1 tutoring; Subject matter experts; Flexible scheduling; Custom learning plans; Free practice tests; Mobile app; Virtual classroom tools
Varsity Tutors excels at matching students with tutors who specialize in specific tests and learning styles. Their personalized approach addresses individual strengths and weaknesses more effectively than group classes. The live online platform includes interactive whiteboards and document sharing that create an immersive learning environment. Their free diagnostic tests provide valuable insights even before committing to tutoring.
The official ACT preparation book created by the test makers, featuring authentic practice tests, detailed explanations, and test-taking strategies.
Written by ACT test developers; Five full-length practice tests; Detailed answer explanations; Online question bank; Test-taking strategies; Content review for all sections
The Official ACT Prep Guide provides the most authentic practice questions available, identical in style and difficulty to those on the actual test. The detailed explanations help you understand not just the correct answers but the reasoning behind them. The online companion provides additional practice opportunities and interactive features. This resource should be a cornerstone of any ACT preparation strategy.
High-end test preparation company featuring full-time professional tutors, small group classes, and comprehensive programs for SAT, ACT, and AP exams.
Full-time professional tutors; Small group classes; One-on-one tutoring; Proprietary curriculum; Regular progress reports; Executive functioning coaching
Revolution Prep distinguishes itself by exclusively employing full-time professional tutors rather than part-time contractors. This results in higher quality, more consistent instruction from tutors who are fully invested in student success. Their approach emphasizes not just content mastery but also test-taking strategy and executive functioning skills that serve students well beyond standardized tests.
College Board's official digital platform for AP students and teachers, featuring practice questions, progress checks, and personalized feedback aligned with AP course content.
Created by AP test developers; Topic-level practice; Personal progress checks; Aligned with course framework; Free with course enrollment; Teacher-guided assignments
AP Classroom provides the most authentic practice experience for AP exams, with questions written by the same people who create the actual tests. The personal progress checks deliver detailed feedback on specific skills and content areas, helping focus study efforts. This resource is especially valuable when used in conjunction with a teacher who can assign targeted practice based on classroom performance.
Online learning platform with extensive practice questions and content for AP exams, SAT, ACT, and high school subjects, featuring detailed explanations and progress tracking.
100,000+ practice questions; Detailed explanations; AP specialization; Spaced repetition learning; Performance analytics; SAT/ACT preparation; Subject courses
Albert.io stands out for its exceptional AP test preparation materials, with questions that match or exceed the rigor of the actual exams. Their detailed, multi-part explanations include both the factual answers and the underlying concepts. The platform's spaced repetition system helps students retain information more effectively by strategically reviewing material at optimal intervals.
Boutique test preparation company providing personalized tutoring, small group classes, and self-paced options for standardized tests with a research-based methodology.
Personalized approach; Cognitive science foundation; Expert tutors; Small group options; Flexible formats; Score improvement guarantee; Parent communication
Applerouth's approach is grounded in cognitive science research about how students learn most effectively. Their tutors receive exceptional training in both subject matter and teaching techniques. The company balances academic rigor with a supportive, encouraging approach that builds student confidence. Their regular parent updates keep families informed about progress and next steps throughout the preparation process.
SAT and ACT preparation company featured on Shark Tank offering intensive courses designed to rapidly improve scores through proprietary strategies and techniques.
Intensive preparation methodology; Proprietary strategies; Live online courses; Score improvement guarantee; Founded by perfect scorer; Weekend bootcamps; Private tutoring
Prep Expert's intensive approach is designed for significant score improvements in a relatively short timeframe. Their curriculum focuses heavily on strategies and techniques specific to each test, helping students maximize points even without complete content mastery. The weekend bootcamps are particularly valuable for students with limited time who need focused, high-impact preparation.
Comprehensive free resource for AP exam preparation featuring study guides, practice tests, outlines, and notes for multiple AP subjects.
Completely free; Coverage of multiple AP subjects; Detailed study guides; Practice questions; Course notes; Exam breakdowns; Sample essays
AP Study Notes provides exceptionally comprehensive free resources for AP exam preparation. Their subject guides break down complex topics into manageable sections with clear explanations. The sample essays with scoring commentary are particularly valuable for humanities subjects. This resource is especially helpful for self-studying students or those looking to supplement classroom instruction.
High-end, customized test preparation company providing one-on-one tutoring, personalized curriculum, and comprehensive support for SAT, ACT, and other standardized tests.
Completely customized programs; One-on-one tutoring; Expert curriculum team; Diagnostic assessments; Regular progress reports; International student expertise
ArborBridge provides the most personalized test preparation experience available, with every program built from the ground up for each student. Their proprietary diagnostics pinpoint specific skill gaps and optimal test-taking strategies with remarkable precision. The company excels at working with high-achieving students aiming for elite universities and those with unique schedules or learning needs.
Free online SAT and ACT preparation platform featuring adaptive learning, video lessons, practice questions, and personalized study plans.
Completely free; Engaging interface; Video lessons; Adaptive learning; Personalized study plans; Progress tracking; Immediate feedback
PrepFactory stands out for making high-quality test preparation accessible to all students regardless of financial resources. Their gamified approach keeps students engaged while building essential skills. The platform's strength lies in breaking down complex concepts into manageable lessons with clear, concise explanations and immediate feedback that reinforces learning.
Comprehensive ACT and SAT preparation program offering self-paced online courses, checklist-driven study plans, and virtual tutoring with a methodical, structured approach.
Structured checklist approach; Audio and video lessons; Vocabulary building tools; Self-paced courses; Virtual tutoring options; School partnerships; Parent portal
Method Test Prep's checklist-driven approach provides clear structure and accountability that keeps students on track. The 15-minutes-per-day model makes test preparation manageable even for busy students. Their audio lessons are particularly valuable for auditory learners and students who want to study on the go. The vocabulary builder efficiently targets words most likely to appear on standardized tests.
Specialized AP exam preparation platform featuring expert instruction, practice questions, and study guides created by experienced AP teachers and exam readers.
Created by AP exam readers; AP-specific strategies; Video lessons; Practice questions; Study guides; Free and premium options; Teacher resources
Marco Learning's greatest strength is its team of contributors who have direct experience as AP exam readers and know exactly what graders look for. Their content focuses not just on subject matter but on strategic approaches to different question types. The student guides are exceptionally clear and concise, distilling complex topics into manageable concepts without oversimplification.
Innovative test preparation platform offering adaptive practice questions, video explanations, and real-time progress tracking for SAT, ACT, and AP exams.
Adaptive question technology; Video explanations; Free basic access; Premium features; Mobile-friendly; Practice test generator; Performance analytics
TestGlider's adaptive technology creates a highly efficient study experience by focusing on questions at the edge of your ability level. Their video explanations are exceptionally clear and concise, addressing common misconceptions directly. The free tier provides substantial value, while premium features like the practice test generator and advanced analytics enhance preparation for serious students.
Visually engaging online test preparation platform featuring high-quality animated video lessons, practice questions, and personalized progress tracking for SAT and ACT.
Beautifully designed interface; Animation-based learning; Concept-focused approach; Affordable pricing; Practice questions; Progress tracking; Single payment model
Olive Book stands out for its exceptionally well-designed visual learning experience. The animated lessons make abstract concepts concrete and memorable, particularly benefiting visual learners. Rather than focusing solely on test-specific tricks, the curriculum builds fundamental understanding that serves students beyond standardized tests. The one-time payment model provides excellent value compared to subscription services.
Specialized SAT preparation platform featuring comprehensive video explanations for official practice tests, content reviews, and strategy guides created by perfect-scoring experts.
Video explanations for every official practice test question; Strategy course; Content review videos; SAT-specific calculator techniques; Free and premium tiers; Study planning tools
1600.io provides the most comprehensive video explanations available for official SAT practice tests. The step-by-step walkthroughs reveal not just how to solve each problem but the thought process behind identifying the most efficient approach. Their calculator techniques course is particularly valuable for maximizing performance on the math sections. The free tier offers substantial value with access to select explanations.
Humorous, engaging test preparation platform offering courses, practice tests, and study guides for standardized tests with a conversational, entertaining approach designed to keep students interested.
Humor-infused content; Engaging writing style; Comprehensive test coverage; Practice tests; Drills; Video lessons; Affordable subscription; School licenses available
Shmoop succeeds in making test preparation genuinely enjoyable through its conversational tone and humor. This approach particularly benefits students who find traditional test prep boring or intimidating. Behind the entertaining style is solid content that effectively builds skills and test familiarity. Their comprehensive coverage of multiple tests makes the subscription especially valuable for students preparing for several exams.
Standardized test preparation company combining adaptive software with personalized coaching to create accountability and support for SAT and ACT preparation.
Weekly coaching sessions; Adaptive practice software; Accountability system; Progress reporting; Parent involvement; Score improvement guarantee; Flexible scheduling
Testive's coaching model bridges the gap between self-study programs and full tutoring services. The weekly check-ins with coaches provide accountability and personalized guidance while the adaptive software efficiently targets skill gaps. This combination is particularly effective for students who struggle with self-motivation but don't require intensive tutoring. The parent communication features keep families informed and involved.
Specialized standardized test preparation resources and guidance designed specifically for homeschooled high school students, with materials that address the unique needs of these learners.
Homeschool-specific guidance; Self-directed study plans; Parent resources; Test-familiar-building exercises; Timeline recommendations; College application support; Affordable resources
Test Prep for High School Students addresses the specific challenges homeschooled students face when preparing for standardized tests, including potential unfamiliarity with formal testing environments. Their parent guides help homeschooling families integrate test preparation naturally into their curriculum. The resources emphasize building test familiarity and confidence alongside content knowledge.
Community-driven AP exam preparation platform featuring live streams, study guides, practice questions, and collaborative learning opportunities created by top AP students and teachers.
Free and premium resources; Live review sessions; Student community; Study guides; Practice questions; Expert teachers; Multiple AP subjects
Fiveable's community approach creates a supportive learning environment that reduces the isolation many students feel when preparing for challenging AP exams. Their live review sessions are particularly valuable during the final weeks before exams. The study guides distill complex course content into clear, manageable reviews that identify the most important concepts to master.
Innovative test preparation platform utilizing memory science and spaced repetition to optimize learning and retention for standardized tests, with a focus on efficient, effective preparation.
Memory science foundation; Spaced repetition technology; Adaptive learning; Short, focused lessons; Digital textbook; Practice questions; Affordable pricing
Achievable's approach is firmly grounded in cognitive science research about how memory works, resulting in remarkably efficient learning. Their spaced repetition system presents information at optimal intervals for maximum retention. The bite-sized lessons make studying more manageable and reduce procrastination. This platform is particularly valuable for students with limited time who need to maximize the return on their study investment.
Budget-friendly test preparation platform offering comprehensive courses, practice tests, and adaptive learning for SAT, ACT, and subject-specific tests with detailed analytics and personalized recommendations.
Competitive pricing; Full-length practice tests; Adaptive learning; Detailed analytics; Video lessons; Parent dashboard; Custom quiz generator; Error tracking
Piqosity delivers remarkable value with features typically found in much more expensive programs. Their Mistake Analysis system helps students identify patterns in their errors to address underlying issues rather than just individual questions. The mini-lessons effectively target specific skills without overwhelming students. The platform is particularly strong for math preparation, with detailed step-by-step explanations for each practice problem.
Beyond content knowledge, strategic approaches to standardized tests can significantly improve your performance and scores.
Create a Strategic Study Plan
Begin preparation well in advance, ideally 3-6 months before your test date. Identify your strengths and weaknesses through diagnostic tests, then allocate more time to challenging areas while maintaining your strong subjects.
Practice Under Test Conditions
Take full-length practice tests using official timing guidelines and materials. Create a test-like environment free from distractions. Build mental stamina by gradually increasing your study session duration leading up to the test.
Learn Test Formats and Instructions
Familiarize yourself with test structures, question types, and directions so you won't waste precious time reading instructions on test day. Know exactly what each section requires and how it's scored to focus your preparation efficiently.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
In the week before the test, maintain a regular sleep schedule, eat well, and exercise moderately. The night before, gather all required materials and get a full night's sleep instead of cramming. Practice relaxation techniques to manage test anxiety.
Manage Your Time Strategically
Quickly calculate how much time you can spend per question and monitor your pace regularly. Don't get stuck on difficult questions—mark them, move on, and return if time permits. Save a few minutes at the end to review your answers if possible.
Use Process of Elimination
For multiple-choice questions, eliminate obviously incorrect answers first to improve your odds. Even partial knowledge can help narrow down options. When several answers seem plausible, look for subtle differences that make one more precise than others.
Read Carefully and Completely
Pay close attention to key words in questions such as "except," "not," "most," "least," "always," or "never" that can completely change a question's meaning. For reading comprehension, read the questions first to guide your focus, then actively read the passage.
Answer Every Question
On most standardized tests, there's no penalty for wrong answers, so never leave a question blank. If time is running out, quickly fill in answers for remaining questions—choose the same letter consistently for better odds than random guessing.
Manage Test Anxiety
If anxiety strikes during the test, take a moment for deep breathing or positive self-talk. Focus on the current question rather than worrying about your overall performance. Remember that a few challenging questions are normal and don't determine your entire score.
Research and statistics that demonstrate the significant effect of strategic test preparation on standardized test performance.
Average SAT point improvement with 20+ hours of preparation
Based on multiple studies of structured test preparation programs
Of students report increased confidence after test preparation
Leading to better performance under pressure on test day
Higher likelihood of achieving target scores with structured prep
Compared to students who only take practice tests without strategy training
Test preparation has the greatest impact for students who begin with scores in the middle ranges, with improvements of 100-200 points on the SAT commonly reported after comprehensive preparation.
The combination of content review and test-taking strategy instruction yields significantly better results than either approach alone, according to a meta-analysis of 40+ test preparation studies.
Timed practice tests are particularly effective, with studies showing that students who take at least 3 full-length practice tests average 50+ more points on the SAT than those who do not, even with the same amount of overall study time.
For AP exams, students who use official College Board materials in their preparation earn qualifying scores (3+) at approximately 20% higher rates than those who rely solely on general subject knowledge.
Common questions about standardized test preparation and strategies for success.
For major tests like the SAT or ACT, start 3-6 months before your test date for optimal results. This timeline allows for gradual skill building, multiple practice tests, and refinement of strategies without creating burnout. For AP exams, begin content review at least 2-3 months before the May test dates, integrating preparation with your ongoing coursework throughout the year.
Start by taking a diagnostic test for each to determine which better suits your strengths. The ACT has a science section and emphasizes speed, while the SAT allows more time per question and focuses more on reading comprehension and evidence-based reasoning. Most students perform better on one test than the other, so focusing your preparation on that test typically yields better results than dividing your efforts between both.
The value depends on your learning style, self-discipline, and starting point. Premium programs with personalized instruction benefit students who need accountability, customized approaches, or have specific challenging areas. However, motivated students with good study habits can achieve excellent results using free or low-cost resources like Khan Academy (for SAT) and official practice materials. Consider starting with free resources and investing in targeted help only for your weak areas.
Aim for at least 3-5 full-length practice tests under timed conditions. Start with a diagnostic test early in your preparation to identify weaknesses, take 1-3 practice tests during your preparation to measure progress and refine strategies, and complete a final practice test 1-2 weeks before your actual test date. Space these practice tests throughout your preparation period rather than clustering them, and thoroughly review your results after each test.
Consider retaking if: (1) your score is significantly below the middle 50% range for your target schools, (2) you had testing day issues like illness or extreme anxiety, (3) your practice test scores were consistently higher, or (4) you've completed substantial additional preparation. Most students improve on a second attempt, with average gains of 20-40 points on the SAT and 1-2 points on the ACT. However, diminishing returns typically set in after the second or third attempt.
Build confidence through thorough preparation and familiarity with the test format. Practice mindfulness or deep breathing techniques to use during the test. Maintain perspective that these tests are important but not all-determining. Consider using positive self-talk and visualization of successful test performance. If anxiety is severe, consult with a counselor for additional strategies or accommodations. Remember that familiarity reduces anxiety, so taking multiple practice tests under test-like conditions can significantly help.
Begin your test preparation journey today with the resources that best match your learning style and needs.