Solve all your questions about Digital SAT prep. When and how to register? What are good scores? How do you set a target and achieve it step by step? What resources actually help?

This article is designed to help you prepare for the SAT over the summer, aiming for a strong score in 3–6 months, or a longer perspective.

We’ll start by reviewing test dates and format changes, then walk through goal setting, prep plans, tools, and common mistakes to avoid.

Don’t miss – The College Board reading list and prep tips for SAT are available to download at the end of this guide.

2025 SAT Test Dates & Registration Deadlines

The test dates for the second half of 2025 and the first half of 2026 have been released and are open for registration.

• The general registration deadline is typically 4–5 weeks before the test date.
• Change deadlines (e.g. for test center or date changes) usually fall a week after the registration deadline.
• Registrations are open on Official College Board Website

Test Date	Registration Deadline	Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, and Late Registration
Aug. 23, 2025	Aug. 8, 2025	Aug. 12, 2025
Sept. 13, 2025	Aug. 29, 2025	Sept. 2, 2025
Oct. 4, 2025	Sept. 19, 2025	Sept. 23, 2025
Nov. 8, 2025	Oct. 24, 2025	Oct. 28, 2025
Dec. 6, 2025	Nov. 21, 2025	Nov. 25, 2025
March 14, 2026	Feb. 27, 2026	March 3, 2026
May 2, 2026	Apr. 17, 2026	April 21, 2026
June 6, 2026	May 22, 2026	May 26, 2026

Digital SAT vs Paper SAT: What’s Changed Since 2023?

The SAT became fully digital in 2024. While the 1600-point scale remains, the format and test experience have changed in key ways.

The digital SAT is shorter, adaptive, and more efficient—but it also requires new prep strategies. If you’re still using paper-based materials, it’s time to update.

Key Features of the Digital SAT:

• Adaptive Format: Each section has two modules. Your performance on the first determines the difficulty of the second—making the test more personalized and targeted.
• Test Experience: The exam is taken on a laptop or tablet using the Bluebook app, with built-in tools like timers and a digital calculator.
• Fewer Questions and Duration: The digital SAT includes 98 questions in total and lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes.
• Math Focus: Greater emphasis on Algebra 2, data analysis, and applied problem-solving. Topics include:
  • Linear and quadratic equations
  • Functions and inequalities
  • Graphs, statistics, and real-world data problems
  • Light geometry and Pre-Calc concepts
• Faster Score Reports: Most students receive scores within two weeks of test day.

These updates streamline the SAT—but also raise the bar on strategy and test-day readiness.

Feature	Digital SAT (2024–)	Paper SAT (Before 2023)
Format	Taken on a laptop or tablet	Pencil and paper booklet
Length	2 hours 14 minutes	3 hours+ (plus optional essay)
Structure	Adaptive: two modules per section	Fixed: one continuous section
Reading	Short, stand-alone passages	Long multi-paragraph passages
Writing	Blended with reading	Separate grammar section
Math	Calculator allowed throughout	Calculator banned in one section
Calculator Tool	Built-in Desmos calculator	Bring your own calculator

How to Set Your SAT Score Target

Before diving into a prep plan, it’s important to set a clear and realistic goal.

Your target score should match the competitiveness of the colleges on your list.

National Benchmarks

2024 national average: 1024

• SAT ERW: 519
• SAT Math: 505

If you’re applying to state universities, aim for 1150–1250. For more selective schools, you’ll need a higher score.

Tier-Based SAT Score Targets

SAT Score	Target Schools
1500+	Top 30 schools like the Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, UCLA
1400+	Top 50 schools such as NYU, Boston University
1350+	Top 80 schools like Penn State, University of Miami
1280+	Top 120 schools such as ASU, Michigan State

How to choose your number:

• The scores listed above reflect stronger chances at the corresponding universities—but they don’t guarantee admission.
• Check the middle 50% SAT range of admitted students at your target schools. Aim for the top 25% of that range to stand out, especially at test-optional schools.
• A perfect 1600 is rare, aiming for 1500+ can also open doors to merit scholarships and selective programs.

Best Grade Timing for Taking SAT

When should you start preparing for and taking the SAT? Here’s a general timeline:

Grade	Preparation Focus
8th Grade	Build a solid math foundation through Geometry; read widely to boost vocabulary and reading speed. Try PSAT 8/9.
9th Grade	Begin PSAT 8/9 or PSAT 10 prep; learn Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus to support SAT math readiness.
10th Grade	Begin formal SAT prep. Take your first SAT in the spring or summer. Aim to reach your target score within 1–2 attempts before junior year.
11th Grade	Haven’t hit your target? Focus on fall retakes. Aim to reach your goal by the third try—1500+ is a strong benchmark.

Earlier planning means more chances to hit your score goal before application season.

Best SAT Study Plans Based on Your Current Score and Goal

Where you start determines how you study. Below are four study paths based on your current SAT score range and your next-level goal:

• From 1000 to 1250 points: Build Your Foundation (3+ Months)
• Increase from 1250 to 1400 points: Strengthen Application and Fill Gaps (3 Months)
• Improve to 1500 points: Sharpen Strategy and Accuracy (2 Months)
• Reaching 1500+

Summary Table for SAT Preparation

Current Score	Target	Prep Time	Math Focus	Reading/Writing Focus	Tips
1000	1250	3+ months	Finish Algebra 2; review core concepts	Build vocabulary, grammar, and reading skills	Use Khan Academy; focus on understanding over speed
1250	1400	3 months	Apply school math to SAT-style questions	Practice different passage types; apply grammar rules	Use Bluebook for official practice; review mistakes regularly
1400	1500	2 months	Fix errors; improve accuracy and speed	Apply test-taking strategies and review	Master key strategies: elimination, time management, answer checking
1500	1550+	4–6 weeks	Maintain precision under pressure	Refine pacing and consistency	Focus on full simulations, not new content

What to Do This Summer: 3-Month Sprint with Think Academy SAT Summer Prep Camp

If your SAT Reading & Writing score is already above 500 and you’re aiming for 700+ or even 750, summer is the best time to build momentum and close the gap.

Think Academy’s SAT Summer Prep Camp is designed specifically for the digital SAT, with up-to-date content, adaptive strategies, and a structured timeline to guide students through every phase of prep.

Program Highlights:

• Group learning + 1-on-1 tutoring to target personal weaknesses and build test-taking confidence
• 10 full sets of digital mock exams to simulate the real test experience and improve timing
• Focused instruction on challenging question types and test mindset
• Detailed review sessions to help students analyze mistakes and fill knowledge gaps
• Ideal for students looking for a structured, high-efficiency prep experience

2025 Summer SAT Prep Timeline

Phase 1: Foundation + Volume (Mid-June to Mid-August)

• Attend Think Academy’s SAT group classes and complete all assigned homework
• Finish full-length practice tests and targeted question sets weekly
• Goal: Complete 20–30 sets of focused practice
• Build accuracy, habits, and core strategies

Phase 2: Accuracy + Refinement (Mid to Late August)

• Shift focus to reviewing mistakes, analyzing weak spots, and improving decision-making
• Practice test strategy: eliminate answer traps, manage time, and improve accuracy
• No more blind drilling—focus on quality over quantity

With the right plan and expert support, this summer can be your breakthrough moment for SAT success.

Best Free Tools for Digital SAT Practice

College Board – Bluebook (Official SAT Testing App)

• Official testing app for digital SAT
• Includes 4 full-length adaptive practice tests with detailed solutions
• 3 essay practice sets
• Familiarizes you with test tools and timing
• Non-adaptive paper tests also available online

To access: Go to SAT homepage → Start Practicing → Practice Tests

Khan Academy (Official SAT Partner Resource)

• Official SAT partner offering free practice
• Adaptive quizzes and personalized study plans
• Digital SAT Math + Reading/Writing
• Organized by topic and difficulty
• Limited question volume and lower difficulty—best suited for early-stage preparation.

Tips

Create a personal Khan Academy account to track your progress and pick up where you left off.

We recommend starting early and setting a weekly routine using Khan + Bluebook together.

Recommended Reading: Build Skills Beyond Practice Tests

SAT Reading has become more challenging, especially with short, dense passages and poetry. Memorizing answers won’t help—but building strong reading skills will.

Why it matters:

• Questions are based on familiar themes but phrased differently
• Topics change, answer orders shift, traps are subtle
• Students who read regularly develop stronger comprehension and speed

To build that, the College Board suggests reading classic literature, essays, and narratives with rich language and complex ideas. These books improve your vocabulary, reading speed, and your ability to handle unseen texts with confidence.

3 Common Mistakes When Preparing for the Digital SAT

Many students struggle on the SAT not because they don’t know the content—but because of avoidable mistakes. Here are three common problems and how to fix them:

“I Know the Concept, But Still Get It Wrong”

• SAT math questions often contain trap options.
• Example: Misreading what “per hour” or “per unit” actually means in an equation.
• Tip: Don’t rush. Slow down and check what the question is really asking—especially units and wording.

“I’ve Learned the Topic, But Always Miss a Few”

• Knowing the concept ≠ being test-ready. You need to apply it under pressure.
• Topics like Algebra 2, Geometry, and Statistics are covered repeatedly in tricky ways.
• Tip: Keep an error log. Review the same question types, not just content. Focus on patterns in your mistakes.

“I Thought the Question Would Be Easier”

• Many students underestimate difficulty—especially in Module 2.
• SAT math now includes harder calculations and a steeper curve.
• Tip: Don’t aim to “just miss one or two.” Treat every point as critical. Go for full accuracy and build endurance for the hardest problems.

Practice with real test conditions, review past errors carefully, and adjust your mindset—accuracy > speed.

About Think Academy

Think Academy, a leading K–12 math education provider under TAL Education Group, delivers high-impact SAT prep with a proven track record. In 2023, over 60% of students scored above 1500, including 4 perfect scorers. That momentum continues in 2024, with dozens achieving 1450+, 1500+, and 1550+. Backed by expert teachers and structured strategies, Think Academy helps students go beyond hard work—to high scores.

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