The most important part of the test preparation process is taking full-length practice tests. This exercise helps build stamina, improves pacing, and identifies strengths and weaknesses. But with recent changes to both the ACT and SAT exams, how and when students take practice tests matters more than ever.
🎙️Listen to these expert discussions on Why Practice Tests Matter So Much and
What SAT and ACT Diagnostics Can Tell You
Here’s what you need to know:
🧠 First Rule: Don’t Burn Through the New Tests!
Both the Enhanced ACT (debuting September 2025) and the Digital SAT (updated in 2024) have a limited number of official practice tests in their newest formats.
ACT:
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Only four official Enhanced ACTs have been released so far.
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ACT plans to release three more per year (in October 2025, April 2026, and June 2026).
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Do not use these as your first practice tests! Save them for when your student is ready for full simulations and final prep.
SAT:
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Just seven Digital SATs and two PSATs are available in the College Board’s Bluebook app.
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The College Board is not planning to increase these numbers anytime soon, so students must use them wisely.
🧪 So, What Should Students Practice With?
At Seeley Test Pros and LEAP, we’ve got you covered. Here’s how we strategically use available resources:
For the ACT:
- ✅ 30+ Legacy ACT Tests: We license these through the ACT Affiliate Tutor program—only a handful of organizations have this privilege.
- ✅ The four released Enhanced ACTs (strategically spaced out).
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✅ 7–8 Enhanced ACT Tests from third-party providers (quality-controlled).
With this bank of over 40 tests, we can ensure students never run out of quality ACT practice—without overusing the limited Enhanced materials.
For the SAT:
- ✅ Two Bluebook PSATs
- ✅ Seven Bluebook SATs
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✅ Supplementary section practice, diagnostics, and digital tools to maximize their usefulness.
🎯 Which Test Should My Student Choose?
A common myth is that the new ACT or SAT format means students should switch tests—but that’s not necessary.
👉 We recommend your student take a practice ACT and SAT to see which test plays to their strengths.
We offer free practice tests—sign up at www.leaprogram.com!
📅 When Should My Student Start Taking Practice Tests?
Here’s a rough guide:
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Early prep (first 4-6 weeks): Work on skill-building and sections.
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Mid-prep: Begin full-length practice using legacy or third-party tests.
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Final month: Start incorporating the Enhanced ACT or Digital SAT tests one by one.
Taking too many tests too early can lead to burnout and waste valuable resources. Thoughtful pacing is key.
✅ Takeaways for Parents
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🛑 Do not “use up” the few Enhanced ACT or Digital SAT tests too early
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📚 Use licensed legacy and third-party tests for early and mid-stage prep
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🧪 Take practice SAT/ACT tests to choose the best test
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🧭 Let Seeley Test Pros and LEAP guide the process with our exclusive access to materials and planning support
Have questions or want to schedule a mock test?
📧 Email us anytime at info@leaprogram.com to learn more or get started!