The ACT and SAT
The ACT and SAT are standardized tests used by college admissions to evaluate how prepared a student is for college-level coursework. Since all high schools weigh classes and calculate GPAs differently, these tests offer a common benchmark to compare students' college readiness. While there are key differences between the two exams, both measure your skills in English, reading, and math.
Scoring Overview
- ACT: You can score a 1-36 in math, science, English, and reading. Each section is graded individually on that scale and averaged to give you your composite score. (You can optionally take the writing section, but most colleges don't require or accept it. Writing is a separate score which does not contribute to your overall composite.
- A composite score of 30 or higher is recommended for admission into a top 100 university. 32-34 is recommended for top 30 schools and 33+ for anything higher.
- SAT: You can score between 400-1600, based on the combined scores from the Reading and Writing, and Math sections. Unlike the ACT, your SAT score is the sum of your scores in both sections.
- While there are statistics on what ACT scores correspond to different tier universities, we do not have that for the SAT. Every school requires a pretty different score. You should check a school's 50th percentile of scores and aim to be at or above that. If the school is test-optional and you are below their median SAT score, it may be better not to submit your score.
Which one should you take?
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There are key differences between the SAT and ACT and it’s important to put them into consideration when choosing which test your going to prioritize. While you can take both tests it’s easier to study for one test than two. Most schools will have you take a pre-SAT and pre-ACT during your freshmen and sophomore years so pick whichever one do better on and prioritize it. If you don’t take a pre-SAT and pre-ACT or you don’t put full effort into them take an actual SAT and ACT then the one you do better in and continue to retake that test until you are happy with your score.
Test-optional vs test-required schools:
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Another important thing to consider when taking tests, is whether the colleges you’re applying to are test-optional or test-required. Test-optional schools allow you to choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you think that you’re scores reflect your academic ability and will add strength to your application, then it is a good idea to submit them. But if your scores aren’t as strong, it’s better to leave them out.
When should you take it?
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While it’s not imperative to take the SAT or ACT early in your high school career, ideally, you should take one of them by the spring of your junior year. This gives you additional time for studying and retakes so that you can have a higher score by the time the college admission season rolls around. On average SAT takers who retake the test improve by 40 points. Only 35% of SAT takers score lower on a retake.
Prep Resources:
If you have decided to take either the SAT or ACT, the next step is to start preparing. Based on the date you will take the test, you should figure out a schedule for your studying. You don’t need to study for hours every day, but you should be consistent. A few sessions a week in the weeks leading up to your test date can make a big difference. You can use official practice tests from College Board (SAT) or ACT.org, and then go over your answers to find out what kinds of questions you missed. If you need more support, getting a tutor, a prep book, or taking an online course are all great options.
How to sign up, costs, & what to bring:
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When you’re ready to take the test, register online–SAT at collegeboard.org and ACT at act.org. Tests normally cost around $60, but there are fee waivers available if you qualify. On test day, bring your admission ticket, photo ID, and approved calculator, pencils, and snacks if you want one during breaks.
Sending Scores & Super-scoring:
After testing, you can send your scores to colleges through your testing account. Many schools offer super scoring, meaning they’ll combine your highest section scores from multiple tests to give you the best overall score. Be sure to check each school’s policy for this!