Best date to Take SAT/ACT

Test Preparation
1

Background Info
SAT: 1390 (M:670; W/R:7200)
ACT: 27
Class Rank: 73 out of 348 (not updated); GPA: W:4.2 UW: 3.42 (not updated)
Community Service Hours: Not sure how to document this. I do a lot of community service with my church, independent road cleanup, and some stuff with my school clubs.
Clubs: Beta Club (Officer), Student Council (representative), Spanish Club, Quiz Bowl
EC Activities: Soccer, Church Choir, Mime Team, Church Youth Group Volunteer

1.) I would like some advice about when to take the SAT again in order to have adequate time to study and prepare, along with the ACT. I scored a 1390 (Math:670, Critical Reading/Writing: 720) on my first try. I did horrible on the rhetorical analysis essay. I took the ACT in early February and scored a 27 (fell asleep halfway through due to personal issues). What advise would you offer on improving these scores? My goal for the SAT is a 1500 and my ACT goal is a 33.
1.b) What is the best date to test for the SAT if I’m applying to the USC honors college? I can still register for the Nov. 4 if that’s the best date to take it.

2.) I would like to improve my essay writing ability. I believe my writing skills are very strong, but what tips would you offer to help improve it in general?

2

My kids take the SAT in March of 10th grade and Oct of 11th grade, SAT2’s May of 10th grade.
This has worked well for us.

You don’t say what grade you are in, if you’re a sophomore you have plenty of time, if you’re a junior go for the March date and make a study plan! You still have another shot if you need it. If you are a senior you may already be too late but go ahead and take the Nov test and do your best.