5 Myths About SAT & ACT Test Anxiety: What Every Parent Needs to Know to Support Their Teen

When it comes to the SAT or ACT, students face immense pressure, which can often lead to test anxiety. But as common as this experience is, there are several myths about test anxiety that can add to the stress students feel. By debunking these myths, we hope to offer a more supportive and compassionate perspective—helping students navigate this challenge and perform their best on test day.

Myth 1: Test Anxiety Is Rare

The Reality: Test anxiety is more common than you might think.

One of the most persistent myths is that test anxiety only affects a small number of students, making those who experience it feel isolated. However, research shows that between 10-40% of students experience some level of test anxiety, with about 35% facing moderate to severe anxiety. You are not alone in feeling anxious about the SAT or ACT, and recognizing that test anxiety is a common experience is the first step toward managing it.


Myth 2: Test Anxiety Means You're Not Prepared

The Reality: Anxiety doesn’t always reflect your readiness.

Many students believe that their anxiety is a sign they haven’t studied enough or aren’t ready for the test. In reality, test anxiety often stems from the pressure to perform, rather than a lack of preparation. Even well-prepared students can feel anxious because they are focusing on the high stakes involved. It’s important to remind yourself that feeling nervous doesn’t mean you aren’t capable. In fact, many students who are thoroughly pr


Give Your Student the Competitive Edge with a
Custom SAT/ACT Roadmap

Give your student a clear, strategic edge with a test prep plan designed by Adam Allouche, ESM Prep College MatchPoint’s Director of Test Prep. In this customized strategy session, Adam—a world-renowned SAT and ACT expert—will develop a detailed roadmap to align perfectly with your student's needs, ensuring that every prep hour is purposeful and geared toward maximizing their scores. With years of experience mentoring students at top-tier schools worldwide, Adam’s approach emphasizes precision, balancing academic review with targeted strategy to streamline preparation and build confidence. Free up your time while giving your student a plan that’s proven, personalized, and designed for competitive results—schedule a session with Adam today and set him on the path to success!


Myth 3: Anxiety Only Affects Your Emotions

The Reality: Test anxiety has both emotional and physical effects.

Test anxiety isn’t just about feeling nervous—it can also trigger physical symptoms. Studies have shown that during high-stakes tests, students’ cortisol levels (a stress hormone) can increase by as much as 15%, and for some male students, this rise can be even higher—up to 35%. These physiological changes can lead to physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweaty palms, or even difficulty breathing. This physical response can further heighten anxiety, creating a cycle of stress. Recognizing these symptoms as normal and practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, can help calm your body and mind before and during the test.


Myth 4: Test Anxiety Completely Controls Your Score

The Reality: While test anxiety can impact scores, it’s manageable.

It’s true that test anxiety can affect test performance—research suggests it accounts for about 2-15% of the variance in scores on standardized tests. However, it’s important to remember that test anxiety is something you can manage with the right strategies. Preparing effectively and practicing mindfulness techniques can reduce anxiety’s impact. There are also practical steps, like taking timed practice tests, becoming familiar with the testing environment, and practicing positive self-talk, that can help manage anxiety on test day. By focusing on what’s within your control, you can limit the impact of anxiety on your performance.


Myth 5: You Have to Eliminate Anxiety to Succeed

The Reality: It’s okay to feel some anxiety—you can still perform well.

Some students believe they must completely eliminate anxiety to succeed, but the truth is, a little anxiety can actually enhance performance. Feeling nervous shows that you care about the outcome, and in manageable amounts, this stress can help sharpen your focus. The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety entirely, but rather to keep it in check. Developing strategies to stay calm under pressure will allow you to approach the SAT or ACT with more confidence. By acknowledging your anxiety and working through it, you can still perform at your best.


Test anxiety is a common and understandable experience for students taking high-stakes exams like the SAT or ACT. By debunking these myths, we hope to offer reassurance that while test anxiety is real, it doesn’t have to control your performance. With the right preparation and strategies to manage stress, you can navigate the challenges of test anxiety and succeed on test day. Remember, you’re not alone—and with support and the right mindset, you’ve got this.


Share by: