Out-of-town students preparing for the 2026 SAT in Boston should focus on several key strategies to maximize their performance. First, they should enroll in a reputable SAT prep course or tutor, as these resources provide structured learning and personalized feedback. Second, they should utilize online resources and practice tests to familiarize themselves with the exam format and content. Third, students should create a study schedule that incorporates regular review sessions and time for rest and relaxation. Lastly, they should consider attending local SAT prep workshops or study groups to connect with peers and share strategies.

The reasons for these strategies are multifaceted. According to the College Board, the SAT is a standardized test designed to measure critical reading, writing, and math skills. Effective preparation not only helps students achieve higher scores but also reduces test anxiety. Data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) indicates that students who receive formal SAT preparation tend to score significantly higher than those who do not. For instance, a study found that students who took a prep course scored an average of 110 points higher on the SAT than those who did not. This underscores the importance of structured preparation, especially for out-of-town students who may not have access to the same resources as local students.