Examples of Long-term Study Schedule for College Entrance Exams

Discover effective long-term study schedules to prepare for college entrance exams with practical examples.
By Taylor

Introduction to Long-term Study Schedules

Preparing for college entrance exams can feel overwhelming, but having a structured long-term study schedule can make a significant difference in your readiness and confidence. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples of long-term study schedules designed to help you succeed in your exam preparation journey. Each example is tailored to different contexts and learning styles, providing practical steps to help you stay organized and motivated.

Example 1: The Gradual Approach

This schedule is perfect for students who prefer a slow and steady pace, allowing ample time for review and mastery of subjects.

Starting 6 months before the exam, the student allocates specific subjects each month, ensuring all topics are covered before the exam date. Each study session lasts 1.5 hours with breaks in between to maintain focus and engagement.

Month 1: Mathematics

  • Week 1: Algebra (2 days), Geometry (2 days)
  • Week 2: Trigonometry (2 days), Statistics (2 days)
  • Week 3: Practice problems (4 days)
  • Week 4: Review and practice tests (3 days)

Month 2: English

  • Week 1: Grammar (2 days), Vocabulary (2 days)
  • Week 2: Reading comprehension (2 days), Writing techniques (2 days)
  • Week 3: Essay writing (4 days)
  • Week 4: Review and practice tests (3 days)

Months 3-6: Continue with Science, Social Studies, and Review

  • Devote each month similarly to the previous subjects, ensuring plenty of practice tests and reviews leading up to the exam date.

This methodical approach allows students to build confidence as they progress through subjects, enabling retention and mastery.

Example 2: The Intensive Boot Camp

Ideal for students who want to cover a lot of material in a shorter timeframe, this schedule is structured around a 3-month intensive study period.

The student will dedicate 5 days a week for 3 hours each day, focusing on different subjects each week. Weekend sessions are reserved for practice tests and review.

Weeks 1-4: Focus on Core Subjects

  • Week 1: Mathematics (Mon, Wed, Fri), English (Tue, Thu)
  • Week 2: Science (Mon, Wed, Fri), Social Studies (Tue, Thu)
  • Week 3: English (Mon, Wed, Fri), Mathematics (Tue, Thu)
  • Week 4: Social Studies (Mon, Wed, Fri), Science (Tue, Thu)

Weeks 5-8: Advanced Topics and Practice Tests

  • Week 5: Advanced Mathematics concepts and problem-solving techniques
  • Week 6: In-depth English literature analysis and writing workshops
  • Week 7: Science experiments and critical thinking exercises
  • Week 8: Social Studies discussions and essay writing practices

Final Weeks: Full-Length Practice Tests

  • Each weekend, complete a full-length practice exam and review results.

This schedule is intense but can lead to rapid improvement in a short amount of time, making it ideal for motivated students.

Example 3: The Balanced Lifestyle Approach

This schedule is designed for students who want to balance their exam preparation with other commitments, like extracurricular activities or part-time jobs.

Starting 4 months before the exam, the student commits to 2 study sessions per week, each lasting 2 hours. This allows for steady progress without overwhelming their schedule.

Month 1: Establishing a Routine

  • Week 1: Set goals for each subject
  • Week 2: Mathematics (2 sessions)
  • Week 3: English (2 sessions)
  • Week 4: Science (2 sessions)

Month 2: Building on Knowledge

  • Week 5: Social Studies (2 sessions)
  • Week 6: Review Mathematics and practice problems (2 sessions)
  • Week 7: Review English and practice essays (2 sessions)
  • Week 8: Review Science and practice experiments (2 sessions)

Month 3-4: Intensifying Focus

  • Begin integrating practice tests every other week while continuing to review subjects. In the final month, increase study time to 3 sessions per week with a focus on full-length practice tests.

This balanced approach allows students to prepare effectively without sacrificing other important aspects of their lives.


These examples of long-term study schedules for college entrance exams provide flexible options tailored to different study preferences and lifestyles. Choose the one that resonates best with your situation, and remember, consistency and commitment are key to your success!