Our SAT/ACT Test Prep Process

At Premier College Prep, each step of our test prep process is carefully calibrated to help students maximize their results. Here is what the process looks like:

Step One: Contact us. In an initial phone call, we’ll take down your information, get a sense of your needs, and usually arrange diagnostic testing for your child.

Step Two: Free diagnostic testing. A diagnostic SAT is the best metric for us to establish a student’s baseline, analyze strengths and weaknesses, and formulate recommendations for prep. Our diagnostic SAT is a full-length, official practice SAT. Each test lasts approximately 2.5 hours. We proctor diagnostic tests on weekend mornings at our Ambler office. For students whose schedule or location makes in-person testing impossible, we can set them up with instructions to self-proctor.

In the past, we’ve recommended diagnostic ACTs as well. Because the ACT is going through major changes in Fall 2025, we’re not currently requiring or recommending diagnostic ACTs. Read more about the changes coming to the ACT and our recommendations.

Step Three: Consultation to formulate a prep plan. As soon as students complete each diagnostic test, they’ll get emailed an instant score report that assesses student performance in a variety of categories. Then, we’ll reach out to schedule a complimentary phone consultation. Meanwhile, our team will meet to analyze the results and discuss ideal prep recommendations. During the consultation, we will share our recommendations for which test to take, which test dates to target, and how much prep to complete before testing.

Step Four: Connect with your tutor or register for your class. If you decide on 1-on-1 tutoring, we will have your tutor contact you directly to schedule the first session. If you decide to register for a small group class, we’ll sign you up and look forward to seeing you on the first day of class! Either way, we’ll send over all necessary information and materials.

Step Five: Test prep and proctored tests. (Learn more about our 1-on-1 tutoring or our small group classes.)

For most students, in addition to the tutoring sessions or classes, we strongly recommend regular full-length proctored practice tests. These proctored practice tests, which are always offered free of charge to our students, allow us to monitor progress and customize prep accordingly. Most importantly, proctored practice tests help students develop comfort and familiarity with the testing experience.

Step Six: Take the test. We typically recommend students target multiple test dates, with a prep plan devised to give students a shot at doing their best on the first attempt, but really aiming to hit their target score by the end of the second test. After the first test, we’ll check in and update the plan accordingly for the second attempt, if necessary.

Step Seven: College Essay Coaching. We also help students with college essays. This typically occurs in the summer before senior year.

Give us a call at (215) 884-5789 to get the process started! We look forward to working with you!