Academic Preparation: Testing & College Prep

Maximize your college readiness with strategic academic preparation. From standardized tests to advanced coursework, we'll help you build a competitive academic profile.

1200+

Competitive SAT Score

4

Years English/Math

3+

AP Courses Recommended

3.0+

Minimum GPA

Standardized Testing Strategy

SAT Preparation

Target Scores for Texas Schools:

  • • UT Austin: 1310-1500
  • • Texas A&M: 1240-1440
  • • Texas Tech: 1150-1320
  • • UH: 1160-1350

Prep Resources:

  • • Khan Academy (free, personalized)
  • • College Board practice tests
  • • Local prep courses
  • • Private tutoring

ACT Preparation

Target Scores for Texas Schools:

  • • UT Austin: 29-34
  • • Texas A&M: 28-33
  • • Texas Tech: 24-30
  • • UH: 25-31

Test Sections:

  • • English (75 questions, 45 min)
  • • Math (60 questions, 60 min)
  • • Reading (40 questions, 35 min)
  • • Science (40 questions, 35 min)

Test-Optional Updates

Many Texas colleges are now test-optional or test-flexible. However, strong scores can still help with scholarships and competitive program admission. Research each school's current testing policy.

Texas High School Course Requirements

Minimum Requirements (RHSP)

English Language Arts

4 credits required

Mathematics

4 credits (Algebra II or higher)

Science

4 credits (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

Social Studies

3 credits (World History, US History)

Foreign Language

2 credits same language

Competitive Edge Courses

Advanced Placement (AP)

Take 3+ AP courses in areas of interest

Dual Credit

Earn college credit while in high school

Honors Courses

Demonstrate academic rigor

STEM Focus

Extra math/science for STEM majors

GPA and Class Rank Strategy

Top 10% Benefits

  • • Automatic admission to Texas public universities
  • • Priority consideration for scholarships
  • • Access to honors programs
  • • Enhanced financial aid opportunities

GPA Boosting Tips

  • • Take challenging courses you can succeed in
  • • Seek help early when struggling
  • • Utilize weighted GPA opportunities
  • • Maintain consistency across all subjects

Class Rank Factors

  • • Weighted vs. unweighted GPA policies
  • • Course difficulty level impact
  • • School size affects competition
  • • Transfer student considerations
Test Preparation Timeline
9th-10th

Foundation Building

Focus on strong grades in core subjects. Take PSAT 8/9 for baseline.

11th Grade

PSAT & First Tests

Take PSAT for National Merit. Begin SAT/ACT prep and take first official test.

Summer

Intensive Prep

Dedicate summer to test prep. Take practice tests and address weak areas.

12th Grade

Final Testing

Take final SAT/ACT by December. Focus on college applications and courses.

Additional Academic Preparation

Summer Academic Programs

  • • Governor's School programs
  • • University summer camps
  • • Research opportunities
  • • Academic competitions
  • • Subject-specific intensives

Study Skills Development

  • • Time management strategies
  • • Note-taking systems
  • • Test-taking techniques
  • • Research and writing skills
  • • Critical thinking development

Academic Support Resources

  • • School counselor guidance
  • • Teacher office hours
  • • Peer tutoring programs
  • • Online learning platforms
  • • Community college courses

College-Level Skills

  • • Independent research projects
  • • Advanced writing techniques
  • • Presentation skills
  • • Analytical thinking
  • • Academic integrity understanding

Continue Your Texas College Planning Journey

Academic foundation set - now explore the college experience

Back: College Applications

Review the application process and requirements

View Applications

Step 5: Campus Life & Experience

Discover what college life is really like

Explore Campus Life