Preparing well for the SATs is an important milestone on your path to college. Strong scores play a role in the admissions process at Great Lakes Christian College, and they help you take confident steps toward your future. As you look ahead, now is the perfect time to begin exploring campuses where you can grow academically, spiritually, and personally. GLCC invites you to come see what makes our Christ-centered community unique.Schedule a Personal Tour of GLCC →
If you’re a high school student thinking about college, chances are the SATs are on your mind. You might have heard classmates stressing about them, or maybe you’ve already circled your test date on the calendar. Either way, it is normal to feel nervous. Standardized tests can feel like a big deal.
Here’s the good news: you can walk into the SATs feeling prepared and confident. Success on this test is not about being “naturally smart” or having some secret ability. It comes down to preparation, smart strategies, and keeping perspective.
To help you do your best, here are 10 pieces of SAT test advice that will guide you from study time to test day.
Why the SATs Still Matter
Even as more schools experiment with test optional admissions, SATs remain an important part of the application process at many colleges. A good score can:
- Strengthen your application alongside GPA and extracurriculars.
- Help you qualify for scholarships.
- Show you are ready for college level reading, writing, and math.
At the same time, remember that the SATs do not tell your whole story. They are one piece of the puzzle, not the entire picture of who you are as a student and a person.
Study Tips to Help You Succeed
1. Start Early and Stay Consistent
The SATs cover material you have been learning for years. That is why cramming the week before rarely works. Instead, start at least two to three months before your test date.
- Block out short study sessions (30–45 minutes) several times a week.
- Rotate between math, reading, and writing to stay balanced.
- Use weekends for longer practice tests.
Consistency builds confidence. Think of it like training for a marathon. Steady effort over time beats a last minute sprint.
2. Practice with Official Materials
There are lots of prep books and websites out there, but not all of them match the actual test. Save yourself time by sticking to the best resources:
- The College Board’s Official SAT Study Guide — real past exams with answer explanations.
- Khan Academy’s free SAT prep — personalized practice tied directly to the College Board.
- School resources — ask your counselor if practice sessions or workshops are available.
Practicing with official questions helps you recognize patterns and avoid surprises on test day.
3. Focus on Your Weak Areas
It is easy to spend time on the sections you already like, but real improvement comes from tackling your weaker spots.
- Take a full length practice test and review it carefully.
- Notice where you lost the most points: Was it algebra? Grammar? Reading comprehension?
- Make a targeted study plan. For example, dedicate Tuesdays to math review and Thursdays to writing practice.
Every student has strengths and weaknesses. Focusing on growth areas can make the biggest difference in your overall score.
4. Simulate Real Test Conditions
The SATs are long, and stamina matters. Practicing under realistic conditions helps you prepare mentally and physically.
- Set a timer and follow the real section lengths.
- Sit at a desk instead of lounging on the couch.
- Use only the tools you will have on test day: pencils, an approved calculator, scratch paper.
When you train like it is the real thing, test day feels familiar instead of overwhelming.
5. Mix Solo Study with Group Help
Studying on your own is important, but do not underestimate the value of learning with others.
- Join a study group at school or with friends.
- Ask a teacher to explain tricky concepts you keep missing.
- Swap practice essays with a peer to get feedback.
Sometimes just talking through a problem out loud helps you understand it better. Plus, group study keeps you motivated when prep feels like a grind.
Making the Most of Test Day
6. Sleep and Nutrition Matter
Pulling an all nighter before the SATs is one of the biggest mistakes you can make. Sleep is what helps your brain store and recall information.
Aim for at least seven to eight hours of rest each night the week leading up to the test. On the morning of, eat a solid breakfast with protein and complex carbs. Eggs, yogurt with fruit, or whole grain toast are better choices than sugary cereal or an energy drink that will wear off halfway through.
7. Pack Smart the Night Before
Reduce stress by preparing what you need in advance. Pack your bag with:
- Your admission ticket and photo ID
- Two to three sharpened pencils with erasers
- An approved calculator with fresh batteries
- A water bottle and snacks for breaks
- A simple watch if you like to track time (no smartwatches)
Having everything ready means you will spend less energy worrying and more energy focusing on the test.
8. Manage Your Nerves
Even well prepared students feel anxious. That is normal. The key is to channel your nerves instead of letting them take over.
- Take deep breaths before each section starts.
- Remind yourself: “I have prepared. I can do this.”
- Use prayer or mindfulness if that is part of your routine.
- Focus on one question at a time, not the entire test at once.
Nerves can sharpen your focus if you manage them well.
9. Do Not Get Stuck on One Question
The SATs are designed to challenge you. If a question feels impossible, do not panic.
- Skip it and mark it in your test booklet.
- Move on and return later if time allows.
- Always guess if you are unsure. There is no penalty for wrong answers.
Your score is based on the total number of correct answers, not perfection.
10. Keep Perspective: You Are More Than a Score
It is easy to feel like your SAT score will determine your entire future, but that simply is not true. Yes, it matters. Yes, it can help with scholarships. But colleges, especially Christian colleges, see you as more than a number.
Your faith, character, leadership, and calling are qualities no test can measure. Work hard, do your best, but do not let the SATs become your identity.
How GLCC Supports You
At Great Lakes Christian College, SAT or ACT scores are part of the admissions process. They help us understand your academic readiness and ensure fairness in awarding scholarships.
But here is the bigger picture: scores are only one part of your application. We care about your goals, your growth, and your calling. We look at the whole student, not just a test result.
So while we encourage you to prepare well for the SATs, know that your story does not start or end with a score. At GLCC, we are committed to walking with you as you discover where God is leading you.
Take Your Next Step
If you are ready to start your college journey, we would love to hear your story. Connect with our admissions team today to learn how your SATs fit into the process and how GLCC can support you every step of the way.
Visit glcc.edu to begin your GLCC journey. Questions? Fill out our inquiry form, email admissions@glcc.edu, or call 800-937-4522 (800-YES-GLCC)—we’re here to help!