By Aviv Weiss, Khan Academy Districts
As the SAT transitioned to a fully digital format, AI came along too, and teachers found themselves in a pivotal position. Not only are they supporting students through a high-stakes test, but they’re also being asked to do so in an ever-evolving educational landscape—with new standards, new technology, and persistent inequities in access.
The good news? Classroom-based SAT prep works. When educators are equipped with the right tools, strategies, and support, they can help students build the confidence and skills needed to thrive on test day and beyond.
Here’s how teachers across the country are making SAT prep stick, with insights drawn from Khan Academy Districts partnerships with hundreds of school districts.
1. Integrate, don’t isolate
SAT prep doesn’t have to be a separate unit, course, or after-school program. In fact, the most effective strategies embed SAT practice into existing instruction—especially in English and math.
Tip: Use Khan Academy’s official SAT prep to align practice problems with the skills you’re already teaching. Whether it’s a warm-up activity, exit ticket, or targeted small group intervention, bite-sized practice builds momentum.
2. Leverage AI to support struggling students
Every classroom includes a range of learners. That’s where AI can make a real difference.
Khanmigo, Khan Academy’s AI-powered tutor, gives students instant feedback, personalized hints, and on-demand explanations. It’s like having a 1:1 tutor available at all times, without adding to your workload.
Tip: Assign independent SAT practice during station rotations or asynchronous work blocks, and let Khanmigo guide students through challenging material. Here’s how AI is transforming SAT prep.
3. Make practice feel purposeful
Too often, students see SAT prep as “test prep,” something extra or irrelevant. But when you frame SAT skills as college- and career-ready competencies, student motivation shifts.
Tip: Show students how mastery of SAT reading, writing, and math connects to real-world applications. Highlight growth over time using data dashboards and reports that visualize their progress.
4. Use diagnostic data to target instruction
Time is limited, and you need to know where to focus. That’s where Bluebook™ practice tests come in.
These College Board–aligned diagnostics give you real insights into student strengths and skill gaps. Paired with Khan Academy’s platform, they allow you to personalize learning without the guesswork.
Tip: Start the semester with a diagnostic and use the results to create targeted SAT skill groups. Learn how districts are using Bluebook™ tests to drive gains.
5. Don’t go it alone—get PD support
SAT prep isn’t just about content—it’s about strategy, timing, and confidence building. And just like students, you benefit from expert guidance.
Khan Academy Districts offers professional development for teachers and administrators, including training on district-wide SAT prep, classroom integration, and AI usage.
Tip: Join a growing network of educators leading impactful SAT prep. Meet Sandy, a teacher whose entire class graduated thanks to Khan Academy’s official SAT practice.
Your role matters more than ever
As a teacher, you play a crucial role in demystifying the SAT and giving students the tools to succeed. By embedding practice, personalizing support, and modeling growth, you help your students do more than prep for a test—you help them prepare for what comes next.
Ready to take the next step?
👉 Explore how your district can support teachers in SAT prep.
👉districts.khanacaedmy.org/sat
