As a current or soon-to-be middle schooler, you already have a lot on your plate. Navigating the new class schedule, figuring out the social scene, and trying out new clubs and sports can make for some busy days ahead—not to mention the more advanced school work. So why add early admissions test preparation to your to-do list?
Preparing for the ACT® and SAT® tests as early as 7th and 8th grade isn’t necessarily the best course of action for every student, but it can be for some. This guide can help you figure out if it’s the right choice for you and, if so, what to do next.
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How to Prep for the SAT and ACT Tests in Middle School
Decide whether you’re ready to start
Most students don’t actually need to start test prep until high school. However, advanced or gifted students may want to get a jumpstart as early as 7th or 8th grade. Test prep can be an effective way to gain access to more advanced math and reading material.
In addition, high-performing students who plan on applying to gifted programs (e.g., the Center for Talented Youth or the Center for Bright Kids) will need to submit SAT or ACT test scores to be considered for admittance.
If none of that describes you, then it’s perfectly fine to wait to begin test prep.
Become familiar with the SAT and ACT tests
It’s always helpful to know what to expect from a standardized test well ahead of taking it. Spend some time researching the SAT test and ACT test formats and types of questions asked. Know the test score ranges and how the tests are administered.
It can also be helpful to take a look at how test scores are used in the college admissions process. Not only do they play a role in determining whether you may be accepted to a particular school, but test scores can also determine your eligibility for certain scholarships and admission to specific programs.
Note, however, that colleges won’t usually look at scores older than five years. Even if you take the tests early on, you’ll most likely still need to take them again later.
Take a diagnostic test to set a benchmark
When you’re beginning the test prep process in middle school, there’s really no need to take the official test just yet. The official administration of the test can be stressful, and going through it too early may result in testing fatigue. Wait until you’re ready. You have plenty of time.
However, you can and should start with a diagnostic test. Taking a free diagnostic test will set a benchmark that allows you to get a better sense of whether you’re really ready to begin test prep or if you should wait until high school. It can also inform your personalized study plan.
Enroll in an early start test prep program
If you decide you’re ready, start by enrolling in an early start test prep program designed specifically for middle schoolers, such as KD College Prep’s Advanced Start™ Program for 7th and 8th graders. You’ll benefit from a structured program with a variety of features, like lessons, workshops, practice tests, and instructor-led test reviews.
It’s important to note that KD Advanced Start students participate in activities alongside high school students, working on high-school-level material.
Fall in love with reading for fun
In 2019-2020, only 17% of 13-year-olds said they read for fun on a daily basis, down from 27% in 2012 and 35% in 1984. This is unfortunate, given how reading enriches life, educates, amuses, and entertains. In fact, studies show that people who regularly read for fun have better writing skills, more expansive vocabularies, and a better grasp on topics in history, science, literature, and practical daily life matters.
You don’t need to only read a specific type of material—like classic literature—to benefit. Find nonfiction topics and fiction genres you love and enjoy reading for fun every day.
Read varied material a little above your level
When you’re reading for fun, you should choose whatever books speak to you. However, it’s also a good idea to make sure that your reading list includes books and topics that are a bit beyond your comfort zone—both in terms of topic and difficulty. This provides exposure to a broader range of ideas and concepts, as well as advanced language.
Build a robust vocabulary
Reading every day is one of the most effective ways to build a robust vocabulary, as it allows you to see new words in their proper context. However, you can supplement your daily reading by keeping a list of words that aren’t familiar to you. Look up their definitions and make an effort to use them in everyday conversation.
Take Algebra I in 8th grade if given the option
You might have the option to take Algebra I in middle school if you’re an advanced student who can demonstrate sufficient mathematics proficiency. If it’s available to you and you’re eligible, give serious consideration to taking Algebra I as an 8th grader. It may benefit your college application as well as help you develop foundational competencies in the math problems you’ll encounter on the tests.
Pay close attention in science lab classes
The ACT test has a science section, unlike the SAT test. You might think that you’ll need to devote yourself to the rote memorization of science terms and concepts in order to be successful on this section. However, it actually rewards an understanding of fundamental scientific skills, like data interpretation, more than rote memorization. Pay close attention in all of your science classes, and strive to improve your critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills.
Challenge yourself with contests
Academic competitions are a fun way to exercise the same critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills. Whether you’re competing alone or with a group, academic competitions can expose you to a range of question types, nurture creativity, and even help you become accustomed to working well in high-pressure situations. In this way, contests may be particularly helpful students who have test anxiety from time to time.
Address problem areas as early as possible
No student is adept at everything; everyone has problem areas. As you work through your middle school curriculum (or test prep program), you’ll be able to identify those problem areas. Take steps to address them and improve by requesting extra help from a teacher, test prep instructor, or tutor.
Prevent summer “brain drain”
It’s important to enjoy your younger years while you can, and you should be sure to fill your summer breaks with fun activities you love. However, it’s also a good idea to prevent the dreaded “brain drain.” Do continue to set aside some time for summer enrichment activities for teens, groups, and summer camps in your area.
Learn good test-taking strategies
Test-taking strategies can help you navigate difficult areas of the test and can lead to improved scores and less test anxiety for some students. Work with a professional test prep instructor who knows the ins and outs of the tests and understands what works and what doesn’t. At KD College Prep, our instructors teach students many different test-taking strategies.
Practice good stress management habits
School, test prep, and test taking can be stressful! This is particularly true for young advanced or gifted students who tend to put a lot of pressure on themselves to be perfect. First, know that you don’t have to be perfect to score well. Second, get into the habit of using good stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, social support, and healthy lifestyle choices. Be sure to make time for fun and enjoy this stage of your life.
When preparing for the SAT test, take the PSAT 8/9 test if available
Talk to your school guidance counselor to find out if the PSAT 8/9 test is available to you in 8th grade. These scores aren’t sent to colleges. The format, sections, and timing are the same as for the SAT test, but the questions are developed with 8th and 9th graders in mind. It’s also great practice for the 11th grade PSAT/NMSQT and SAT tests.
When preparing for the ACT test, take the PreACT® 8/9 test if available
The PreACT 8/9 test is similar to the PSAT 8/9 test, but it’s intended for preparing for the ACT test instead of the SAT test. You’ll answer questions on math, reading, science, and English. Not all school districts offer this test, so ask your school guidance counselor if it’s available.
Understand that testing is a process
Lastly, be realistic with your expectations and remember that test prep is a process. It’s perfectly normal to get low scores in 7th and 8th grade, even if you’re an advanced student. Don’t let this discourage you. Take a breath and stay focused on your goals.
Remember that, at this point in your life, you simply haven’t had exposure to as much material as older students. You can’t be expected to know what you don’t know. As you work through school and your test prep program, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn more and raise your scores. Right now, focus on simply becoming familiar with the formats and questions.
Can you take the SAT or ACT test in middle school?
You can take the PSAT 8/9 and the PreACT 8/9 tests in middle school. It’s not advisable to take the official SAT or ACT tests this early, however, since you won’t have been exposed to the more advanced material yet.
Why do some students take the SAT or ACT tests in middle school?
While it’s generally better to wait until high school to take the official tests, some students might decide to test in middle school anyway. These students may need to take the tests in order to apply to certain gifted student programs.
What are good SAT/ACT test scores for 7th or 8th grade?
At this stage in your academic career, it’s best to focus more on which areas may need improvement than how high you scored. If you become too laser-focused on scores, you might be more likely to suffer testing fatigue or burnout. Again, you have plenty of time.
As you begin to work your way through high school, you can define “good” test scores as the ones that are within the score range for your preferred colleges.
How do I know if I’m ready to start test prep in middle school?
Some students aren’t ready to begin test prep this early—and that is perfectly fine! Sometimes, beginning test prep too early can place too much pressure on a student. However, if you excel academically, would be considered an advanced or gifted student, or want to be challenged by advanced material, then you may be ready to start test prep activities.
How can a student start preparing for the SAT/ACT tests in 7th or 8th grade?
If you feel that you’re ready to start preparing for the SAT and ACT tests in middle school, then one of the most effective things to do is to sign up for a structured test prep program. Beyond structured test prep activities, you should consider looking for academic enrichment opportunities, like advanced classes (if available), academic competitions, and academic summer camps. Read every day and pay close attention in your classes.
When is the best time for students to start preparing for the SAT/ACT tests?
It depends! No two students are alike, and a start time greatly depends on a student’s individual goals. We recommend that students complete their national testing by the end of 11th grade. Talk with a professional about a recommended start time that is specific to your goals.
However, if you’re a gifted student, if you’re bored with grade-level material and are craving something more advanced, or if you need to submit test scores to apply to a gifted program, then you might begin preparing for the SAT and ACT tests as early as 7th grade.
How often should you attend test prep activities in middle school?
In middle school, you shouldn’t need to have an intensive test prep schedule. For most younger students, four to six hours per month is plenty for preparing for the ACT test and SAT test. Keep in mind that other activities can also help you prepare for the tests, like taking challenging classes when available and reading for fun daily.
Need help with test prep?
KD College Prep has been a leading choice of students and parents since 1992. We offer flexible online and in-person test prep programs, including our Advanced Start™ Program for 7th and 8th graders. Schedule a free consultation with a college prep advisor to learn more.