ORADELL, NJ / ACCESS Newswire / November 5, 2026 / As students begin receiving their fall PSAT/NMSQT scores, families face an important question: What comes next? With additional SAT and ACT dates approaching and spring testing on the horizon, Huntington Learning Center is encouraging parents to use this fall's results to build a preparation timeline that reflects their student's skills, schedule and college goals.

College Board lists fall in-school student score releases for October 22, November 5 and November 12, depending on when schools submit students' answers. The results provide an opportunity for families to review academic strengths, identify areas needing attention and plan their next steps before the holiday season.

"Parents often ask when their child should start preparing for the SAT or ACT, but the answer should begin with where that student is today," said Anne Huntington Sharma, CEO and President of Huntington Learning Center. "A score report can help start that conversation. By identifying the skills that need attention and working backward from a realistic test date, families can create a manageable plan that gives students time to prepare alongside their schoolwork and activities."

To help families navigate test prep timing, Huntington Learning Center recommends five steps:

1. Look beyond the overall PSAT score: Review performance across reading, writing and math to identify specific areas for improvement. Talk with your student about the testing experience, including whether unfamiliar material, pacing or difficulty staying focused presented challenges. Use those insights to guide preparation priorities.

2. Choose a test date with the full calendar in mind: Consider coursework, extracurricular commitments, college application deadlines and each college's testing policies before registering. For juniors, planning now for spring and summer testing creates time to address skill gaps and assess progress. For seniors still considering a fall or winter test date, confirm application deadlines and the latest scores each college will accept before registering.

3. Separate registration deadlines from preparation timelines: Securing a test date is one step in the process. Students also need a plan for what they will study and when. Upcoming options include the November 7 SAT; the December 5 SAT, with regular registration due November 20; and the December 12 ACT, with regular registration due November 6. Families should evaluate readiness alongside those deadlines.

4. Build consistent practice into the school week: Set aside recurring study time that fits around homework and activities. Focus on specific skills, review mistakes and practice using current test materials. For additional support, consider engaging a test prep program that can help address academic gaps and strengthen test-taking strategies. A sustainable routine gives students opportunities to apply what they learn and track their progress.

5. Leave room to reassess: Include checkpoints to review progress and adjust the plan. When possible, allow time for an additional test attempt rather than relying on a single date immediately before an application deadline. Testing plans should also account for score release schedules and colleges' score submission requirements.

For younger students, preparation can begin with strengthening reading, writing and math skills and developing effective study habits. For juniors or sophomores approaching their first SAT or ACT, the focus can shift toward targeted skill development, familiarity with the exam and timed practice.

"Students do not all need the same preparation schedule," Anne Huntington Sharma added. "The goal is to understand what each student needs and give them a clear path forward. Families can use this fall as a starting point to make thoughtful decisions about spring testing."

Huntington Learning Center offers SAT and ACT preparation to help students address individual learning needs and develop test-taking skills. Families can learn more at huntingtonHelps.com or by calling 1-800 CAN LEARN.

About Huntington Learning Center
Huntington Learning Center is the nation's leading tutoring and test preparation provider. Founded in 1977, Huntington provides individualized academic programs for students from kindergarten through high school in reading, writing, math, science, study skills, phonics, and test preparation for the SAT, ACT and other standardized exams. Through its network of locally owned and operated centers, Huntington works with students and families to build skills, confidence and academic success.

SOURCE: Huntington Learning Center