How to Ace the SAT® in 2025: Proven Strategies for Success, With Bonus PSAT® and College Essay Tips!
Preparing for the SAT® is a significant milestone for high school students who aim for college success. With competitive college admissions, achieving a top score on standardized tests like the SAT® has never been more critical. A great way to jumpstart this journey is to take the PSAT®, which not only helps build foundational skills but can also unlock scholarship opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll dive into actionable strategies to ace the SAT® and explore how students can use the PSAT® to set themselves up for success. We’ll also share expert tips for college essay writing to help students stand out in applications. Whether you’re a freshman or a senior, these tips—combined with expert guidance from The Masterpiece Academy—will help you achieve your goals.
Timeline: SAT® and PSAT® Preparation from 9th to 12th Grade
9th Grade: Freshman Year
Academics
- Focus on excelling in your coursework to establish a strong GPA.
- Aim for consistent straight A’s to build a solid academic foundation.
Reading
- Read a mix of fiction and non-fiction to enhance vocabulary and general knowledge.
Extracurriculars
- Choose one or two extracurricular activities that align with your interests and commit to them for all four years.
- Demonstrating consistency in activities strengthens your college applications.
College Exploration
- Begin exploring potential colleges by attending fairs and scheduling campus visits during vacations.
College Essay Prep
- Start journaling about your extracurricular activities, volunteer experiences, internships, hobbies, and academic achievements. This portfolio will be invaluable for crafting future college essays.
Test Prep
- Familiarize yourself with the PSAT® and SAT® test structure and content.
- Enroll in foundational test prep courses at The Masterpiece Academy during spring or summer to build early skills.
10th Grade: Sophomore Year
Academics
Continue challenging yourself with Honors and AP courses if available.
Strive to maintain a strong GPA by achieving straight A’s.
PSAT® Preparation
Take the PSAT® in October to practice for the SAT® and qualify for National Merit scholarships.
Use free resources like Khan Academy to supplement your preparation.
Leverage The Masterpiece Academy’s targeted PSAT® prep resources for personalized support.
College Research
Dive deeper into college research. Consider factors such as size, location, and available majors.
Reading
Continue reading widely to boost your vocabulary and broaden your perspective.
Extracurriculars
Participate in school clubs, volunteer opportunities, and other activities. Keep a detailed record of your involvement, awards, and achievements.
College Essay Writing Tips
Update your portfolio regularly with new activities and achievements.
Seek summer programs, internships, or volunteer roles that align with your interests to enhance your college essays.
Summer
Attend a summer program at a college, secure an internship, or engage in other enriching activities.
Enroll in SAT® prep classes at The Masterpiece Academy to strengthen your skills further.
11th Grade: Junior Year
Academics
Take advanced courses such as AP or IB to showcase your academic rigor.
Balance your academics with active participation in extracurriculars.
PSAT®
Take the PSAT/NMSQT® in October to qualify for National Merit scholarships.
Use the Masterpiece Academy's focused resources for effective preparation.
SAT® and ACT®
Register for the SAT® and ACT® in spring (April, May, or June).
Consider taking both tests to determine which suits your strengths better. Use summer to focus on improving your best score.
College Exploration
Visit campuses, attend fairs, and engage with admissions representatives to narrow your college list.
College Essay Writing Tips
Refine your portfolio and begin brainstorming ideas for your personal statement.
Work with The Masterpiece Academy to craft compelling essays.
Summer
Participate in programs, internships, or volunteering.
Draft your statement and seek feedback from mentors or Academy coaches.
Test Prep
Enroll in SAT® and essay-writing workshops at The Masterpiece Academy to enhance your skills.
12th Grade: Senior Year
Academics
Continue taking challenging courses and maintain your GPA with straight As.
Colleges will consider your senior year grades, so stay focused.
Applications
Begin college applications as early as August. Use resources like the Common App to streamline the process.
Scholarships
Explore scholarships such as QuestBridge or Gates for full-ride opportunities.
Stay updated with reliable scholarship listings.
SAT®/ACT® Retakes
Retake the SAT® or ACT® in the fall to improve scores if necessary.
Submit your best scores to colleges.
College Essay Writing Tips
Finalize your personal statement and supplemental essays.
Seek mentor feedback or utilize resources like the Learning by Design Podcast from The Masterpiece Academy.
Financial Aid
Submit your FAFSA and other financial aid applications as early as possible, ideally by December.
College Decisions
Finalize all applications and prepare for admissions decisions. Celebrate your hard work and dedication!