Preparing for the SAT or ACT is one of the most important steps for students aiming to get into their dream colleges. In today’s digital age, apps have revolutionized test prep, making studying more interactive, efficient, and accessible. Whether you want practice questions, mock tests, video lessons, or progress tracking, there’s an app tailored to your learning style.

This guide explores the top SAT and ACT prep apps in 2025 that help students boost their scores while reducing stress.

Why Use Apps for SAT/ACT Test Prep?

Before diving into the apps, it’s worth understanding why they’ve become so popular:

  • Convenience – Study anytime, anywhere, directly on your phone or tablet.
  • Personalization – Many apps use AI to tailor study plans based on your strengths and weaknesses.
  • Interactive learning – Gamified quizzes, flashcards, and video lessons keep students engaged.
  • Progress tracking – Real-time feedback helps you measure improvement.
  • Cost-effective – Many apps are cheaper than traditional prep courses.

Now let’s dive into the best SAT/ACT test prep apps that can transform your study routine.

1. Khan Academy – Official SAT Practice Partner

When it comes to free SAT prep, Khan Academy stands as one of the best options. Partnered with the College Board, it offers official practice materials directly aligned with the SAT exam format.

Key Features:

  • Personalized study plans based on diagnostic quizzes.
  • Thousands of practice questions with detailed explanations.
  • Full-length practice tests.
  • Instructional videos that break down complex concepts.

Why Students Love It:

Khan Academy is completely free and trusted by millions. Its adaptive learning approach ensures that students focus on their weak areas, maximizing improvement over time.

2. Magoosh SAT & ACT Prep

Magoosh has built a reputation as one of the most user-friendly and effective prep apps for both SAT and ACT.

Key Features:

  • 1,500+ SAT practice questions and 1,300+ ACT questions.
  • Video explanations for every question.
  • Customizable practice sessions.
  • Score predictor to estimate your potential.
  • Accessible on web and mobile devices.

Why Students Love It:

Magoosh is affordable compared to traditional prep classes, and the app’s clean interface makes it easy to stay consistent with studying.

3. UWorld SAT/ACT

UWorld is known for its realistic practice questions that mimic the actual SAT and ACT exams.

Key Features:

  • Thousands of practice questions with detailed explanations.
  • Performance tracking dashboards.
  • Option to create custom quizzes focusing on specific topics.
  • Mobile-friendly for studying on the go.

Why Students Love It:

UWorld is praised for its in-depth explanations, making it perfect for students who want to understand why an answer is correct (or wrong) instead of just memorizing.

4. Varsity Tutors – Prep & Tutoring App

Varsity Tutors combines self-study tools with access to live tutors, creating a well-rounded prep experience.

Key Features:

  • Full-length SAT and ACT practice tests.
  • On-demand tutoring sessions.
  • Flashcards and quizzes.
  • AI-driven learning paths.

Why Students Love It:

This app is perfect for students who want the flexibility of self-study but also the option to connect with expert tutors when they need extra help.

5. Ready4 SAT & ACT (by Ready4 Inc.)

Ready4 offers a gamified approach to test prep that makes studying less stressful.

Key Features:

  • Daily quizzes and practice drills.
  • Customizable study plans.
  • Vocabulary-building games.
  • College matching tools based on test scores.

Why Students Love It:

Its interactive design and motivational tools keep students engaged. Plus, the college matching feature adds extra value for long-term planning.

6. Quizlet – Flashcards for Test Prep

While not exclusively an SAT/ACT app, Quizlet is a powerful tool for memorization and review.

Key Features:

  • Thousands of pre-made SAT/ACT flashcard decks.
  • Ability to create custom flashcards.
  • Game-like modes (Learn, Match, Test).
  • Works offline for flexible studying.

Why Students Love It:

Quizlet is perfect for quick study sessions—great for vocabulary practice, math formulas, and grammar rules.

7. Peterson’s SAT/ACT Prep

Peterson’s has been a trusted name in test prep for decades, and its app brings that expertise into digital form.

Key Features:

  • 90+ practice tests across SAT and ACT.
  • Skill-building exercises for math, reading, and writing.
  • College and scholarship search tools.
  • Progress reports and score tracking.

Why Students Love It:

Peterson’s offers a comprehensive prep package, making it a one-stop solution for students who want everything in a single app.

How to Choose the Right SAT/ACT Prep App

With so many options, here’s how to select the best one for you:

  • Budget – Free apps like Khan Academy are excellent, but premium apps like Magoosh or UWorld offer deeper insights.
  • Learning Style – Do you prefer video lessons, flashcards, or practice tests? Choose accordingly.
  • Test Focus – Some apps are better for SAT, others for ACT. Make sure the app aligns with your exam choice.
  • Extra Features – Look for progress tracking, college planning tools, or live tutoring if you need them.

Tips for Maximizing App-Based Test Prep

  • Set a schedule – Consistency is key. Use your app daily, even if just for 20 minutes.
  • Take full-length practice tests – Simulate real exam conditions to build stamina.
  • Focus on weaknesses – Use performance reports to identify areas needing extra practice.
  • Mix study methods – Combine apps with prep books or tutoring for the best results.
  • Stay motivated – Many apps have gamified features—use them to keep studying fun.

The Future of SAT/ACT Test Prep Apps

With the rise of AI-driven learning, the next generation of prep apps will be even smarter:

  • AI tutors that adapt in real time to your mistakes.
  • Virtual reality (VR) test simulations.
  • More integration with college admissions tools.

As exams evolve, apps will continue to provide cost-effective, personalized, and engaging study experiences for students worldwide.

Conclusion

Preparing for the SAT or ACT doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Thanks to technology, students now have access to apps that provide personalized study plans, realistic practice tests, and engaging learning methods.

Whether you prefer the structured approach of Khan Academy, the detailed insights of UWorld, or the flexibility of Quizlet, there’s a perfect app for your study style.

By choosing the right tools and staying consistent, you can boost your scores, reduce test-day anxiety, and get one step closer to your dream college.

In 2025, SAT/ACT test prep apps prove that success is no longer about studying harder—it’s about studying smarter.