Updated: Aug 27, 2024
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For decades, the ACT and SAT tests have been fixtures of the college admissions process. But in recent years, a growing trend has shown that hundreds of colleges and universities have adopted test-optional or test-blind policies. Schools with test-optional policies have relaxed admission requirements by allowing students to choose whether or not they submit their test score while schools with test-blind policies vow not to look at test scores when considering applications.
But test optional or test blind doesn’t mean these standardized tests have been dismissed completely. Many schools still require them. So, should you take these tests? And if so, which one? Checking the requirements of your desired schools and understanding the differences between them can help you decide whether to take one or the other, both, or neither.
The ACT and SAT exams contain questions generated from a standard test bank that measure the knowledge and skills you’ve learned in high school. Both exams are used to evaluate your college readiness and give colleges a standardized data point that can be used to compare applicants. Both tests are timed and points are awarded to questions you’ve answered correctly. That means you won’t be penalized for wrong answers so you’re better off answering a question with a guess than not answering it at all. Before putting your number two pencil to paper, it's important to understand the differences, including:
ACT exam | SAT exam | |
---|---|---|
Test sections | English Math Reading Science Writing (optional) |
Reading and Writing Math |
Number of questions | English: 75 Math: 60 Reading: 40 Science: 40 Writing (optional): 1 |
Reading and Writing: 54 Math: 44 |
Allotted time (minutes) | English: 45 Math: 60 Reading: 35 Science: 35 Writing (optional): 40 |
Reading and Writing: 64 Math: 70 |
Total test length (excluding breaks) | 2 hours, 55 minutes (without writing section) |
2 hours, 14 minutes |
Scoring scale | 1-36 per section | Reading and Writing: 200-800
Math: 200-800 |
Format | Paper and pencil or online | Digital |
Costs | $69 (no writing) $94 (with writing) |
$68 |
More info | ACT.org | SATSuite.CollegeBoard.org |
Before trying your hand at either the ACT or SAT test, consider their formats and what you will be evaluated on, and which might play to your strengths. For example, if you are stronger in math and science, you may prefer to take the ACT because it contains a section in science. Or you may prefer to try your hand at both. The best way to assess which test is best for you is to research the different study materials available, take a few practice exams, and choose a method that will be effective for you.
Chances are you’ve been preparing for the ACT or SAT test since eighth or ninth grade with the PreACT® or PSAT® exams administered at your high school. Both are preliminary exams designed to give you practice. And, if you’re a junior, the PSAT may earn you scholarships.
Here are more ways to prepare for the ACT and SAT exams:
Traditionally, most students take the test twice. Typically, people take the test for the first time during the spring of junior year of high school. This gives them time to learn the material and concepts tested, but also provides enough of a buffer in case they want to repeat the test during the fall of senior year.
The ACT and SAT exams are administered separately and are offered several times throughout the year. It’s important to check the registration deadlines to ensure you register on time for the date that fits your needs.
There are registration costs associated with the ACT and SAT exams, including late fees if you miss the registration deadlines. There are also additional fees associated with changing your test date, as well as releasing your scores to colleges you apply to. (Both tests include four score reports but charge for any additional ones.) It is possible to qualify for fee waivers for both tests, so be sure to check your eligibility before paying them.
The scoring model for each test is different:
Traditionally, standardized test scores have been a requirement for many merit scholarships. Some colleges that have switched to test-optional admissions no longer require the SAT or ACT test as a prerequisite for receiving these awards. But others still require scores for scholarships, even if they don’t require them for admissions, and private scholarships may require them. Before deciding whether or not to take the ACT or SAT exam, look into the scholarship programs you intend to apply for and see if you’ll need scores to qualify.
If the schools you’re applying to are test optional then it’s up to you whether or not to take one or both exams. Some students may be relieved that they don’t need to prepare for and take a nerve-wracking test. But, according to the College Board, most students still want to take the SAT exam, see how they score, and then decide if they want to submit their results because a good score can strengthen a college application and increase your chances of being awarded scholarships.
Once you’ve decided on a test, look at the test dates, and register for the date and time that works best with your schedule. Testing centers can fill up quickly, so do this well in advance.
ACT® and PreACT® are trademarks registered by ACT, Inc., which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site.
SAT® and College Board® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site.
PSAT® is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this site.