In 2024, 1.97 million students took the SAT and 1.4 million took the ACT. Participation has declined since 2019 due to test-optional policies, though many colleges are reinstating requirements.

The average SAT score is 1028 out of 1600, with 512 in Math and 516 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. Only 8% of test-takers score 1400 or higher.

Yes, students who use test prep score an average of 100+ points higher on the SAT. Tutored students score about 40 points higher than self-study students. Research suggests scores improve approximately 10 points per 10 hours of quality preparation.

Over 1,800 colleges are test-optional for Fall 2025 admissions. However, 55% of applicants still submit scores, and some selective schools like MIT have reinstated testing requirements.

Yes, the SAT score gap between highest and lowest income families is nearly 300 points. Students from families earning over $200K average 1223, while those under $30K average 930. 68% of high-income families use paid test prep vs. 32% of low-income families.

Premium private SAT tutors charge $150-400+ per hour, with comprehensive packages costing $5,000-15,000. Free alternatives like Khan Academy serve 3 million students annually and produce average gains of 90 points.

No, the SAT transitioned to 100% digital format in 2024. The digital SAT is shorter (2 hours 14 minutes vs. 3 hours) and uses adaptive testing to adjust question difficulty based on performance.

Only 21% of ACT test-takers meet college readiness benchmarks in all four subjects. The average ACT composite score is 19.5 out of 36.

45% of test prep platforms now use AI-adaptive learning, which analyzes student performance to create personalized practice plans. 78% of students use mobile apps for some portion of their test prep.