Empowerly's Guide to High School Exams

Worried about the SAT or ACT? 

Statistically, you’re not alone. Every year, millions of high school students face the pressure of standardized tests that may help determine their college future. Whether you’re aiming for the Ivy League or just want to keep your options open, your scores on the SAT or ACT can make a serious impact.

That’s why we created Empowerly’s Guide to High School Exams—a free, comprehensive starter guide designed to walk you through exactly what to expect, what’s changing in 2025, and how to prepare like a pro.

Let’s dive into what makes this resource essential, and how you can start using it today to get ahead.

Here’s the thing: College entrance exams aren't going away anytime soon.

Even with the rise of test-optional admissions, most students still submit SAT or ACT scores—and many top-tier colleges still expect them. Why? These tests offer a national benchmark of academic readiness that colleges can use to compare students from different high schools, districts, and states. Even at test-optional schools, strong SAT/ACT scores can boost your application, especially for competitive majors or merit aid. 

But not all tests are created equal. And not all students test the same way. 

That’s why understanding the difference between the different high school exams and how to prep effectively can give you the edge you need.

Inside the guide, you’ll find up-to-date breakdowns of each major exam, a side-by-side comparison chart of the SAT vs ACT, and expert-backed study strategies tailored for different learning styles. We’ve even included an ideal test prep timeline to help you stay organized from freshman to senior year.

Whether you’re just beginning to think about college or preparing for your final SAT sitting, this resource will meet you where you are.

If you are preparing to take these high school exams in 2025, you’ll need to be prepared for some changes. Using older prep materials is a good way to review the basic material, but the actual test may surprise you.

• Fully digital, adaptive format
• Shorter test duration
• Streamlined reading sections
• Calculator allowed throughout math
• Use your own device or borrow one

• Shorter: 171 questions (down from 215)
• Science section becomes optional
• Four answer choices per question (not five)
• Core sections streamlined for clarity

The best way to prepare for these changes? Don’t wait until test day to understand them!

At Empowerly, we stay ahead of the curve. Our test prep strategies evolve alongside the exams themselves. As standardized testing shifts toward digital, adaptive experiences, your preparation strategies need to adapt too. That’s why our guide—and our expert support team—focuses not only on what’s on the test, but also how it’s delivered. 

From practicing with online tools to simulating real exam environments, our students are trained for the format they’ll actually face in 2025.

If you’re asking this now, you’re ahead of the curve.

• Focus on strong study habits
• Take practice PSATs
• Build math and reading foundations

• Take the PSAT
• Schedule your SAT or ACT in spring
• Retake in the fall if needed

• Last call for testing by early fall
• Use final scores for scholarships or applications

Want more grade-specific guidance like this? Check out our blog for tips by grade level for freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors.

When planning multiple test sittings, it helps to know how colleges review scores.

Superscoring means colleges combine your highest section scores across multiple test dates—for example, the best SAT Math and best SAT Reading/Writing scores—even if they’re from different test days.

Score choice lets you choose which test dates (and scores) to send to colleges.

Each college has its own policy, so research your target schools. Used wisely, these tools can take pressure off and help you present your best results to admissions.

While it’s always easier said than done, we have some tried-and-true tricks to help you stay focused on your exams and deliver the results you want.

If you have a documented learning difference or disability, such as ADHD, dyslexia, or anxiety, you may qualify for accommodations on the SAT or ACT. These can include extended time, breaks, a quiet testing environment, or using assistive technology. 

To access accommodations, students must comply in advance through the College Board’s (for SAT) or ACT’s Services for Students with Disabilities. The process typically requires documentation, so start early—ideally at least 3-4 months before your test date.

Accommodations can make a huge difference in performance. If you think you might qualify, talk to your school counselor or an Empowerly advisor to get started.

• Start early and stay consistent
• Use official practice tests (Bluebook app for SAT)
• Work on weak subject areas weekly
• Use tools like Quizlet, Khan Academy, and YouTube
• Exercise and eat well—it improves memory and focus
• Practice mindfulness or breathing exercises to reduce test anxiety

• Bring everything you need: ID, pencils, calculator
• Arrive early and stay calm
• Don’t dwell on tough questions—circle and come back
• If time runs out, prioritize high-point questions
• Always review your answers if you finish early

• Review your mistakes and what threw you off
• Save your test for future review
• Talk to a counselor about whether to retake it
• Use results to revise your college list

Need help rebounding from a low score? Read: Didn’t Score Well on the SAT or ACT? Here’s What to Do

Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. If your score is below the school’s middle 50%, it might be smarter to leave it out of your application in the end. Talk to a counselor to develop a score submission strategy that plays to your strengths.

While self-study can give you a strong foundation, Empowerly’s counselors offer the personalized support that takes your test prep further. Our college admissions experts can help you pinpoint your academic strengths and weaknesses, choose the right test for your learning style, and build a prep plan that fits your schedule. Whether you’re working toward a specific scholarship, targeting a competitive school, or simply want to feel confident walking into test day, our team can help you get there.

Let’s be honest: Google searches can only take you so far. Empowerly’s Guide to High School Exams is your one-stop resource for:

• Breaking down key test differences
• Understanding 2025 testing changes
• Creating a personalized study plan
• Learning how to bounce back from a low score

All in one convenient, expert-reviewed format. It’s free—and could save you weeks of research and stress!

Here’s the bottom line: You don’t need to figure this out alone.

Empowerly’s team of college admissions experts and test prep strategists is here to help you:

• Set the right goals
• Build a custom test prep timeline
• Maximize your score and college options

Book a free consultation now to take the next step toward your dream school. Don’t wait—testing season for high school exams is closer than you think.