Is it bad to take the SAT with Essay and ACT with Writing as a rising sophomore?

What? As a test prep tutor, I strongly advise you not to do this. Your score is going to stay with you for all of high school. For any colleges that require all scores, you will have to submit these, if you do take the tests.

Most students take the test as juniors. One, the only score that NMSQT considers is the one taken in October of junior year. Two, you have two whole years of learning ahead of you, which should help improve your score. Three, although many people do it, I NEVER advise students to take these official tests as a “practice run.” Do a practice run at home, or time yourself in a library, when it doesn’t stay on your record forever.

Wait until you are better prepared. Wait to see what develops as this current health crisis plays out in the college application process. Give yourself time to learn more, practice more, and figure out if you even need to take the SAT.