SAT and ACT study plan: 8 weeks to test day
Last checked October 23, 2026 · Sources: College Board (digital SAT format, Bluebook practice, test dates) and ACT (enhanced ACT format, free practice, test dates). The week-by-week schedule is our suggestion.
A good SAT and ACT study plan starts with an official practice test of each, so you know which test suits you and where you stand. The 8-week plan below works for either test: build skills with free official practice (Bluebook and Khan Academy for the SAT, ACT’s free tests for the ACT), then rehearse with full timed tests. The next SAT is December 5 and the next ACT December 12, 2026.
An 8-week plan (our suggestion)
Take a full official practice test of each (Bluebook for the SAT, ACT's free test for the ACT), compare on the concordance table, and pick your test. Register before the deadline.
Work on the skills your practice test showed were weakest, using Khan Academy for the SAT or ACT's free prep, in short daily sessions.
Take a second full timed practice test and review every question you missed.
Keep practicing weak skills and work on pacing; for the ACT, practice the enhanced format with four-choice math.
Take a final full official test early in the week, review it, then rest; check your ID, admission ticket and device setup.
Know what you’re practicing for
| SAT | ACT | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Digital, adaptive, in Bluebook | Paper, online or your own device |
| Length | 2h 14m | 2h 5m core; Science and Writing 40 minutes each |
| Scored | Reading and Writing; Math (400-1600) | English, math, reading (Composite 1-36) |
| Free official practice | Bluebook tests; Khan Academy | ACT’s free practice tests |
From College Board and ACT, October 2026.
Tips that make the plan work
- Practice in the real format: Bluebook for the SAT, because its sections adapt to how you do.
- Review every mistake, not just your score; that’s where most improvement comes from.
- Leave time to retake: scores arrive two to four weeks after the SAT and a few weeks after the ACT.
- Add a course only if you need it: see our best SAT and ACT prep.
Common questions about SAT and ACT study plans
How long should I study for the SAT or ACT?
Many students prepare for about two to three months; an 8-week plan of around five hours a week suits most, adjusted to your starting score.
Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
Take a free official practice test of each and compare on the concordance table; most colleges accept either.
How many practice tests should I take?
At least three: one at the start, one midway and one the week of the test.
Can I study for free?
Yes. Bluebook, Khan Academy and ACT’s free practice tests are enough for many students.
See also SAT and ACT test dates, free SAT and ACT resources and test day. MockTestPrep is independent and is not affiliated with College Board or ACT.