Those Dog Gone Tests. SAT and ACT.

Choosing which standardized test to take comes down to competitive advantage. Your score will be compared to students taking the test at the same time. Therefore, choose the test you are most comfortable with so you can do the best you can. Nine-tenths of the content is comparable between the SAT and ACT, so if you study and prepare for one, you are ready for the other.

Do you get distracted easily or like to ponder questions for a longer period of time? The SAT is a better choice due more time provided overall to complete each section of the test.

Take a look at an actual SAT and ACT test for comparison. Practice tests can be found in standardized testing guidebooks. Read through each test to determine which one “feels” more doable.

Take a practice SAT and ACT test in a simulated test environment. Check with your local libraries for free test-taking sessions offered. After the practice tests, you will have a very good understanding about which test suits you better.

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Quick Comparison

SAT

Science section: No

Math sections: Includes “with calculator” & “without calculator” sections.

Reading sections: 5 passages

Essay: Optional

Time provided: Slower paced test than the ACT. Less time intensive.

Score range: 1-1600

ACT

Science section: Yes

Math sections: Calculators are allowed throughout.

Reading sections: 4 passages

Essay: Optional

Time provided: Time intensive.

Score range: 1-36

A couple of tidbits about the New SAT

The new SAT no longer penalizes students for wrong answers.

The new SAT is now very similar in construct to the ACT.

Would you like more comparison information? Click here.

SAT Subject Tests

SAT Subject Tests are administered by College Board.

There are 20 SAT Subject Tests in these general areas:

English, language, math, history and science

Each test is one hour in length.

Students can take up to three Subject Tests on one day.

Score ranged from 200-800.

Schools may require Subject Tests for admission consideration.

For a listing, click here.

General Facts

Colleges accept either the SAT or ACT with college applications.

If you've taken both tests, submit the SAT or ACT test score that is the highest. Do not submit both.

Colleges and universities use either test for admission and merit-based scholarship consideration.

There are fees associated with taking all of the tests.

Test Optional Schools

There are over 850 colleges and universities by which do not consider standardized test in the admission evaluation process.

Interested? Click here.

Helful Links

SAT

ACT

Khan Academy