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SAT & ACT Test Prep in North Charleston, SC

Best Rated SAT/ACT Prep Courses, SAT/ACT Exam Practice Questions, Placement Tests, and Full-Length Practice Exams

founder-christopher-parsons-college-planning-centers

“Don’t let the test beat you.” ​—Chris Parsons, Founder

Elite SAT and ACT Test Prep with Proven Results

High school students in North Charleston, South Carolina, are preparing for the SAT and ACT, and families in the area trust The College Planning Center for expert test prep that improves scores, builds confidence, and opens doors to scholarships and college opportunities. Our personalized tutoring programs provide targeted strategies for measurable results.

Students attending North Charleston High, R.B. Stall High, and other area schools benefit from programs designed to meet local academic standards. Through diagnostic assessments, individualized study plans, and flexible online or in-person sessions, students gain the guidance necessary to succeed.

As a trusted SAT and ACT prep provider in North Charleston, we focus on measurable improvements. Students typically see an average 150-point increase on the SAT and 3-point increase on the ACT, preparing them for test day and competitive college admissions.



150

Average point rise our students see in their SAT scores

3

Average point rise our students see in their ACT scores

$24K

Difference a one-point rise in ACT scores can make in Merit Aid

Personalized Test Prep Plan

Personalized Test Prep Plan

At The College Planning Center, our standardized test preparation programs are built to give students the confidence, tools, and proven strategies they need to excel on the SAT and ACT. With access to diagnostic assessment services, targeted lessons, and flexible scheduling, we make test prep tutoring both effective and convenient for busy families.

24/7/365 Online Access

Students gain unlimited access to our SAT exam practice test library, featuring over 2,000 exam practice questions and 200+ lessons. These interactive modules break down complex concepts into manageable parts, helping students prepare for practice SAT exams and ACT sections at their own pace.

Comprehensive Lesson Library

Our program includes live and virtual sessions led by experienced instructors, supported by a complete digital curriculum. From preliminary SAT tests that set a foundation, to full ACT test preparation, students benefit from expert guidance and structured learning designed around their strengths and growth areas.

Preliminary Assessments

We begin with diagnostic exams—two full-length SAT and ACT readiness assessments—to establish a baseline score. This process creates a customized roadmap, ensuring every student focuses on the skills and strategies that lead to the greatest score improvements. With this clear foundation, families can track measurable progress from the very first session.

Flexible Scheduling

Families can select from tailored tutoring packages, including a focused 1-Month Test Prep Program or a 4-Month Comprehensive Plan for mastery step by step. Sessions are available virtually or in-office, ensuring that elite SAT prep and ACT support fit seamlessly into each student’s schedule. This flexibility helps students stay consistent with test preparation without sacrificing other priorities.

Individual Tutoring Packages & Intensive Training

Our test prep tutoring services include personalized one-on-one instruction and intensive in-house training sessions. Each program boosts confidence, sharpens time management, and delivers measurable results—often translating into stronger scholarship opportunities and a smoother admissions journey.

Dru Virginia Tech Class of 2029 e1755661683227

“Thanks to the guidance from Chris and the SAT prep with Miles and George, I raised my score from around 1000 to 1230 and got accepted to all five schools I applied to: Ole Miss, Clemson, Citadel, Texas A&M, and Virginia Tech. They helped me build a strong college application. So, a huge shout out to them, especially Mr. Chris Parsons. ”

— Dru

Alumni 2029

FAQ

Have questions about planning for college?
You’re not alone.

From SAT exam practice tests to ACT test preparation and diagnostic assessments, families often wonder how to choose the right path for boosting scores. Our FAQ section addresses the most common concerns we hear from students and parents, offering clear, expert guidance on topics like standardized testing strategies, elite SAT prep, and test preparation courses—helping your student feel confident and fully prepared for test day.

On average, families should expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $200 per hour for one-on-one tutoring. Group classes offer general guidance at a lower cost per student, averaging $30 to $100 per hour. Many private ACT and SAT tutoring companies offer packages to best suit your test prep needs.which sounds pretty great. I like to always remind students though these are typically national percentiles and only about 45% of students are going to attend a four-year university straight out of senior years.A 1400 on the SAT is approximately the ninety-third to ninety-fourth percentile on the exam 

A fair average tutor price in the U.S. usually ranges from $25 to $80 per hour. Rates can be higher for tutors with advanced degrees or specialized knowledge, while newer tutors may charge less to build experience. It's also a good idea to schedule a trial session before committing to long-term tutoring.

Yes, it is possible to get a 1600 on the SAT without getting every single question right, though the leeway is very small and depends on the specific test and how the scoring curve is set. For a perfect score, you must score an 800 on both the Reading and Writing section and the Math section. The digital SAT is adaptive, which can make it possible to get a perfect score even with some incorrect answers, especially if you answer the more difficult questions correctly. The only way to be absolutely certain of a perfect score is to answer every question correctly.

The average SAT score is around 1050, so if your score is higher than that, it's above average. A score of 1350 or higher is in the top 10% of SAT test takers. Even if your score is lower than you'd like it to be, there are many amazing colleges and universities around the world looking for students like you.

No, a 1400 SAT score is generally not considered a competitive score for the Ivy League, as it falls below the average for most of these schools, although it is possible to be accepted with this score. A 1400 is a strong score for many competitive colleges, but Ivy League admissions often expect scores in the 1500-1600 range to be truly competitive. You may have a better chance at Ivy League schools with lower score cutoffs, such as Cornell or Brown, and with a very strong overall application.

What do SAT lessons cost? The average price for SAT lessons is £15 per hour, but rates vary based on the tutor's experience and location. Advanced topics within Tutoring may have higher fees, but don't worry, we've got you! Superprof offers flexible options to fit your needs and budget.

There is no single "best" SAT tutoring program, as the ideal choice depends on your budget, learning style, and needs for live instruction versus self-paced materials. Kaplan is frequently cited as a top overall option due to its comprehensive resources and effective tutors, while Khan Academy is considered the most affordable, with high-quality, free resources. Other strong contenders include Princeton Review for those needing personalized attention and Magoosh for its mobile-friendly platform.

If you scored very low in each section, you didn't do any sort of preparation before taking the SAT, and you're willing to commit 6 to 18 months to consistently studying with some sort of test prep program or class

No, a 1400 is not a bad SAT score; it is a very strong score that places you in the 94th percentile nationally and makes you a competitive candidate for most universities. While it may be below the average for the most highly selective institutions like the Ivy League, a 1400 is competitive for many other top-tier and public universities, and often opens up opportunities for merit scholarships.

The average SAT score is around 1050, so if your score is higher than that, it's above average. A score of 1350 or higher is in the top 10% of SAT test takers. Even if your score is lower than you'd like it to be, there are many amazing colleges and universities around the world looking for students like you.

Local Service Areas

Charleston, SC West Ashley, SC Daniel Island, SC Goose Creek, SC Hanahan, SC

Secure Your College Future Now!

Don’t let the SAT or ACT stand in the way of your college goals. Our standardized test preparation programs combine diagnostic assessments, readiness assessments, and elite SAT prep tutoring to give your student the edge. With flexible scheduling, proven test preparation courses, and support from expert tutoring, we help students boost scores and open more scholarship opportunities.

Schedule your free consultation today and start your student’s path to test success.