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🎓 Life & College Prep Grades 9–12
SAT, ACT & CLEP Prep Overview
Colleges may ask for SAT or ACT scores, and CLEP exams can earn college credit while you're still in high school. Here's what each test is and how to prepare for free.
Learn How it works
| SAT | ACT | CLEP | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What | College admission test (digital, adaptive) | College admission test | Exams that can earn college credit |
| Sections | Reading and Writing; Math | English, Math, Reading; Science is optional | 30+ subjects (e.g. U.S. History, College Composition, Biology) |
| Score | 400–1600 | 1–36 composite | 20–80; 50 is a common passing score |
| Calculator | Allowed for all math (built-in graphing calculator) | Allowed on math | Built in where needed |
| Free prep | Bluebook practice tests and Khan Academy | ACT free practice test | CLEP exam guides and Modern States (free courses and vouchers) |
Homeschool tips
- Register on the official sites. When asked for a school code, use the homeschool code provided (SAT: 970000; ACT: 969999).
- Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October of junior year for National Merit. Contact a local high school by early September to arrange it.
- Check whether your colleges require scores, and whether they accept CLEP credit and for which exams.
A simple 8-week SAT/ACT plan
- Week 1: take a full official practice test. Find your weakest area.
- Weeks 2–7: 30–45 minutes a day on your weakest skills, with one timed section each weekend.
- Week 8: a second full practice test, then rest the day before the real one.
Practice Check yourself
Answer, then tap Check. You get an explanation either way.