Several factors determine acceptance into college, but one of the most significant indicators of likely success in an institution of higher education is a child’s performance on the SAT/ACT.

Of course, you’re going to want your child to earn a top score on these high-stakes assessments, so here’s how to help your child prepare for the SAT/ACT.

Register for the test

Deadlines have a way slipping past even the most conscientious planners. Review test calendars and the locations near you and register well in advance of the SAT and ACT administration.

If you forget to register in time to take the test, you might still be able to secure a seat during the late registration period, or you might be waitlisted. Being waitlisted is no guarantee that you’ll gain entrance to sit the exam. A delay in taking the test can mean fewer attempts to take the test before college begins or even having to wait a semester before applying.

Study

As obvious as it seems, your child will have to study regularly.

To know what portions of the test on which to focus, have your child take a practice test. Analyze the results and build a study plan. Employ a variety of study methods, including online sessions, mobile apps, and hands-on test prep materials. You’ll find many high-quality prep workbooks on the market. Some families also hire private tutors to help their children excel in these tests.

Include plenty of reading in between study sessions. Reading books, especially non-fiction works, increases concentration and vocabulary. Both are necessary for performing well on the ACT/SAT.

Practice under test-like conditions

One of the best ways to prepare for the SAT/ACT is to practice taking the test.

Unlike the practice test your child took to determine his or her course of study, this test must be treated like the real thing. Replicate as many of the test-taking conditions as possible.

Require your child to get a good night’s sleep the day before the practice test. The next morning, administer each section of the test in a room with no distractions, especially electronics ones.

Reserve judgment

When the test results come in, hold off on making comments, especially if the score is lower than anticipated. Furthermore, avoid comparing your child’s test results with those of his or siblings or your friends’ children.

Instead, talk with your child about his or her strengths and weaknesses, and formulate a plan for practicing and taking the test again.

Diligence and practice will help your child get the score he or she needs to get into college.