Preparing for the 2025-2026 SAT? One of the most effective ways to boost your score is by taking a SAT practice test that mirrors the actual digital SAT exam. It helps students get used to the test format, question types, timing, and digital tools. Whether you’re aiming to improve your performance or qualify for scholarships, practice tests are a key part of any successful SAT prep strategy.
Standardized testing has changed, but the SAT is still relevant for college admissions. Many universities will still consider SAT scores in 2025 and further. Even though some schools no longer require the SAT, most students still take it to qualify for scholarships. This is where a SAT practice test can be beneficial. SAT test preps can help you build up to a good score.
A practice test is not just a mock exam. It’s a diagnostic tool that builds confidence among students. Just make sure to complete it from a reliable resource for the best results.
SAT Practice Test Format
Since March 2024, the SAT has been fully digital. Here’s what that means for practice:
| Section | Time | Number of Questions | Skills Tested |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reading & Writing | 64 mins | 54 questions | Vocabulary, grammar, and reading comprehension |
| Math | 70 mins | 44 questions | Algebra, geometry, data analysis, and word problems |
Just like the actual SAT, the practice SAT features two sections:
- Reading and Writing section
- Math section
You will get 64 minutes for the reading and writing section and 70 minutes to complete the Math section for a total of 2 hours and 14 minutes.
To know exactly how long is the SAT test, including breaks, visit our full breakdown.
There are some key changes in the format, including:
- Each test is divided into two modules; how you perform in the first section will impact the difficulty level of the second module.
- Students now have access to onscreen tools, including, built-in calculator, annotation tools, and a timer.
- Reading sections now include shorter passages with focused questions.
- Calculator is now allowed throughout the test.
If you’re curious about unusual sections like SAT Section 5, we cover that in our detailed guide.
How SAT Practice Tests Help Students
It can be a great tool for students preparing for college admission. At IVY test prep, we focus on weekly practice tests for SAT prep. We use practice tests to provide real insights about the study level of students. Here is why a practice test is beneficial for students.
Identify Weak Area
Just like a diagnostic test gives information about education level before SAT prep, the practice test offers insight during the prep. It helps the students to understand where they have improved and where they need to focus more. Instead of guesswork work where to focus more, it offers real-time data. Students can understand timing breakdowns, accuracy by section, and trends in mistakes. Students can change their study schedule and their focus area. Students can change their study schedule and their focus area by following a Digital SAT Study Plan.
Simulate the Real Test Experience
The SATs are more than content. It also tests the endurance. A practice SAT trains students to stay focused for almost three hours. Because it simulates the real test environment so they have to follow every direction and manage their energy, without that practice, many students experience fatigue or anxiety on test day. Practice tests reduce that shock.
Also, many students ask, Can you copy and paste into Desmos on the SAT? We answer that in detail on our blog so students know exactly how to use their tools effectively during the digital exam.
Build Confidence Gradually
Once the students complete a practice test, they understand how the SAT works and they become less intimidated by the SAT. They get used to the structure, question types, and digital interface. This repeated exposure makes the real test feel familiar, reducing anxiety and boosting self-assurance on test day.
Set Realistic Goals
The marks they get on the SAT practice test give students a benchmark. Instead of making scattered efforts, they can set short- and long-term score goals based on actual data. If a student starts at 1100 and wants a 1300, they can plan and measure improvement in a structured way. This is especially important if you’re aiming for a good SAT score for top-tier colleges or scholarships.
Reinforce Core Academic Skills
The SAT tests reading comprehension, grammar, algebra, and data analysis. Preparing for the exam requires working on these skills repeatedly across subjects. Students who commit to regular practice often notice improvements in their schoolwork as well, especially in writing and math.
Learn To Apply Timing and Strategy
Each SAT section has strict time limits. A practice test helps students learn how long to spend on each question, when to move on, and how to guess strategically when needed. These habits don’t form overnight. Repeated exposure builds better instincts. During SAT Summer Prep, students can build these skills more consistently while school is out.
How to Prepare for an SAT Practice Test
Once you are ready for the practice SAT test, prepare for the test effectively by following these tips:
Choose the Right Environment
The practice test will be more effective if completed in a quiet space with no distractions. Use a desk and turn off your phone. Imagine yourself in a real test room.
Use a Timer
The SAT test comes with a time limit. So, time each section accurately. Resist the urge to pause or double-check directions during the test. This builds stamina and time management.
Take It in One Sitting
Take a full-length test in one sitting unless you have accommodations. Don’t break it into chunks. The mental discipline of sitting through all sections is part of the training.
Review Your Mistakes
The learning happens after the test. Check every wrong answer. Was it a misread question? A rushed guess? Or a knowledge gap? Students at Ivy Test Prep use guided review sessions after every practice test to fix recurring issues.
Track Your Progress
Use a Journal to log the findings of each test. Record test date, total score, section scores, and areas for improvement. This will motivate you to do even better after each successful result. Use our Digital SAT Scoring Chart to track progress and convert SAT raw scores.
Tools to Use for SAT Practice in 2025
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bluebook App | Take official SAT practice tests digitally |
| Ivy Learning & Test Prep | Track performance, review answers, and get insights |
| Khan Academy | Skill-based practice with feedback |
| Grammarly / Hemingway | Review writing for clarity and grammar |
Want to start prepping early? Check out the full list of upcoming SAT Test dates to schedule your first practice exam accordingly.
FAQs About SAT Practice Test
Let’s answer your question about the SAT practice test.
What is the best way to take an SAT practice test?
Simulate the test day conditions, time yourself, avoid using your phone, and take the full test in one sitting. Review your answers thoroughly afterward.
How often should I take SAT practice tests?
Every 2–3 weeks during active prep. This allows time to review results and target weak areas before the next attempt.
Are free SAT practice tests accurate?
Yes, if they come from reliable sources like the College Board or Khan Academy. These mimic the digital test structure and question types accurately.
Can teachers assign practice tests as homework?
Yes. But it’s more effective when followed by a classroom review. Teachers can use data from practice results to personalise instruction or group students by need.
Does practising for the SAT also help with the ACT?
Yes. But to an extent. Skills like grammar, algebra, and reading comprehension are repeated, but ACT vs SAT test prep strategies are different, and both require targeted focus
Bottom Line
SAT practice tests are not just mock exams; they are the tool to build confidence and experience. These tests can help students understand where they are lacking and how they should create a targeted study schedule. The score can also give the students insights regarding how they performed in the test and learn from their mistakes. Just make sure to attempt SAT prep tests from a trusted resource to familiarise the format effectively.
