Get Ready for the SAT and ACT: Tips for Teens with Learning Differences

When Abby sat down to take her first practice SAT, she froze. The ticking clock, the dense reading passages, and the pressure to finish on time made it hard for her to focus. For students like Abby, who have ADHD and other learning differences (LDs), standardized tests such as the SAT and ACT can feel especially daunting due to the structure and pace of the exam. While these tests are a common requirement for college admission, they don’t have to become roadblocks. The College Board offers accommodations for students with ADHD or ASD, provided eligibility criteria are met, which can make a significant difference in their testing experience. Still, even with accommodations, effective preparation is essential. That’s why we’ve compiled some of our most reliable, time-tested strategies to help students approach these exams with greater confidence, less anxiety, and the tools they need to succeed.

• Understand the diagnosis. To really help a student with LDs get ready for tests like the SAT or ACT, it’s important to look beyond labels and focus on the individual.  Starting with the details of diagnosis itself will help to identify what kind of support students need. For example, a student with ADHD might benefit from tools that boost focus and time management, while someone with dyslexia may need extra time or tech support for reading-heavy sections. It’s also important to keep in mind that two students with the same diagnosis might learn or struggle in totally different ways: some are great at compensating, while others need more support; some embrace their diagnosis, while others want nothing to do with it. Give students a safe space to speak to their experiences and needs.
• Customize study space. With a better understanding of a student’s diagnosis, the next step is to personalize test prep as much as possible. After gathering input from students and family members, adapt the study environment to suit their needs—whether it’s a quiet corner for focus or background music to mask distractions. Maybe they need a fidget toy to focus. Can’t resist texting with friends or checking social media? Turn off notifications or use  apps to block websites. 
• Create individualized study plans. Time management and organization can be difficult for students with ADHD and other LDs, which can make sticking to a study schedule challenging. To reduce burnout and anxiety, schedule rest days between study sessions and break study time up into smaller chunks (e.g. about 30-60 minutes). Keep things consistent and focused by establishing a study routine for the same day(s) and time(s) each week and by setting one clear goal for each study session. While it’s good to review all topics on the test, prioritize weak areas and allocate extra time to those topics. It’s all about finding the right balance, so test prep isn’t overwhelming.
• Rely on a student’s strengths. Each of us, including students with LDs, have a unique set of strengths to tap into. So, why not use those abilities to maximize a student’s test prep potential? Find what makes them feel empowered, not overwhelmed. Get to know his or her learning style and past experiences by asking how they learn best. 
• Use active learning techniques. When students with LDs engage with study material, they are more likely to retain information and experience less anxiety on test day. Some ways to make test prep more interactive include taking full length proctored exams under real test conditions to get used to the test format and pacing, using flashcards to promote retention of vocabulary and formulas, modeling problem-solving skills, and having students reteach content to rehearse skills and identify weak areas.
• Simplify strategically. Most questions on tests like the SAT and ACT require multiple steps, which can be overwhelming. Students with ADHD and other LDS should be encouraged to approach questions methodically, following specific steps and focusing on one piece of information or task at a time. For example, it’s recommended that students approach each question by first reading it carefully, then highlighting key information, and then follow specific steps (e.g. solving an equation or locating evidence in a reading passage). Other strategies, like process of elimination, can help students save time and increase their chances of selecting the correct answer.
• Encourage self-advocacy. When students are empowered to set goals, choose study techniques, and take responsibility for scheduling breaks, they develop problem-solving skills, which will not only help them ace the test but also serve them in all their future academic challenges. Plus, they’ll get a sense of ownership and pride in their journey.
• Keep it positive. Many students with LDs have faced struggles in the classroom, so it’s crucial to keep things upbeat. When they get a question right? Celebrate it like you’ve just unlocked a new level. When they don’t? Remind them that mistakes are part of the process. And hey, share some success stories of people who have faced similar challenges and triumphed. Show your teen that they’re not alone in this, and they absolutely have what it takes to succeed.
• Focus on growth rather than a score. Instead of stressing out about the perfect score, remind students that test prep is all about building their skills, overcoming challenges, and learning how to bounce back when things don’t go as planned. If a student sees the test as a chance to grow, rather than a mountain they’re just supposed to climb, it can reduce some of the pressure.
• Access accommodations. If a student needs accommodations (like extra time, breaks, or a quiet space), don’t wait until the last minute to ask for them. Extra time can be a game-changer for many students, giving them the opportunity to show what they know without the pressure of a ticking clock. Make sure everything is lined up in time by gathering documentation (e.g. IEPs, 504 Plans, etc.) and contacting your school to have them initiate and submit the request. 
• Have a game plan for test day. Remind them to take it slow—there’s no need to rush through the test. Speeding can lead to silly mistakes, so encourage your teen to tackle the questions methodically, crossing out obviously wrong answers and focusing on the ones that remain. For teens with ASD, minimizing sensory distractions is key. And, if needed, remind your teen that short breaks during the test are totally fine.

How A+ Can Help

By incorporating these strategies into their test prep routine, students with learning disabilities, including ADHD, can feel more confident and prepared when it comes time for the SAT or ACT. The key is to personalize test prep, stay organized, use active learning strategies, and remember that accommodations are available to support their success. If you’re looking for extra support, A+ is here to help your teen conquer the test prep game with our test prep programs for the SAT and ACT. With tailored tutoring, expert guidance, and tons of positive encouragement, we help students with learning differences unlock their full potential and tackle test prep like the champions they are. 

At A+ Test Prep and Tutoring, our practices are based on the latest developments in educational theory and research. We have an excellent team of tutors who can help you with standardized testing, executive functioning, or achievement in any other school subject. If you want to find out more about our services, contact us here.