The Digital SAT Is Here
If you’re the parent of a high schooler in Charlotte, you’ve likely heard the chatter: the SAT is going digital. But that’s just the start. Today’s test landscape can feel like a maze from when to begin prep to how the SAT compares to the ACT. Let’s break it down into manageable, reassuring answers to your most pressing questions.
When Should We Start Prepping?
If your student is aiming for college, you’re probably wondering, “When should we start SAT prep?” The answer? Not too early, not too late. Most experts recommend three to six months of focused prep to see strong results. That sweet spot allows students to build confidence without cramming or burning out.
So if your child plans to take the SAT next spring, the ideal time to begin is this summer or early fall. Summer is a golden opportunity for less homework, fewer distractions, and room for consistent practice. And if your teen is a rising junior, starting now means they’ll be ready to test in time for early college application deadlines or even squeeze in a second try.
Of course, every student is different. Some need longer to build skills; others benefit from a short, focused prep program. At Swan Learning Center, we help families plan realistic timelines that match their students’ needs and schedules. It’s about confidence, not just content.
What’s Going on with the Digital SAT?
Yes, the SAT is now digital, and no, that doesn’t mean it’s easier or harder. It’s just different.
In 2025, students will take the SAT on a laptop or tablet using a secure testing app. The test has been shortened to just over two hours and is now “adaptive.” That means the second part of each section adjusts in difficulty based on how the student performed in the first part. It’s a smart design that keeps things efficient and personalized.
There are other perks, too. Reading passages are shorter and more focused. The math section allows calculators throughout and comes with a built-in graphing calculator for those who don’t have one. And yes, students can bring their own device (as long as it meets College Board specs) or borrow one through their school.
The bottom line? The digital format feels more modern, and it delivers faster score reports. But students still need to prepare. That’s why Swan Learning Center’s SAT programs now include digital practice tests and tools to help your teen feel confident using the test platform.
SAT vs. ACT: Which One Should We Choose?
This is one of the biggest questions, especially in North Carolina, where public school juniors take the ACT for free each spring.
The truth is, colleges accept both the SAT and ACT equally. The best choice comes down to which test fits your child’s strengths. The SAT has fewer sections but more reading-heavy, multi-step questions. The ACT is more straightforward but faster-paced, with an added science section.
Some students thrive with the SAT’s thoughtful pacing, while others prefer the ACT’s predictability. The only way to know is to try both. At Swan, we offer practice exams for each test so students can get a feel for what suits them best and then focus their prep time where it’ll count the most.
Don’t Wait to Get Started
SAT prep isn’t about chasing perfection. It’s about helping students show colleges what they’re capable of. With a clear timeline, strategies, and personalized support, even the most nervous test-taker can enter exam day feeling prepared.
Whether your student is just getting started or needs a last-minute boost, Swan Learning Center is here to help. Let’s build a plan and turn this milestone into a stepping stone. Contact us to get started!
