Most four-year colleges require students to take either the ACT or SAT for admission. Generally, students applying to schools on the east or west coast may need to take an SAT and students applying in the Midwest will take the ACT. most schools accept both tests, so check with the school to determine what test they require. Below you will find an overview of some of the differences, links to find upcoming assessments and resources for free test prep.
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The SAT Vs. ACT
1. ACT questions tend to be more straightforward.ACT questions are often easier to understand on a first read. On the SAT, you may need to spend time figuring out what you're being asked before you can start solving the problem. For example, here are sample questions from the SAT essay and the ACT writing test (their name for the essay):
EXAMPLE SAT: What is your view of the claim that something unsuccessful can still have some value?
ACT: In your view, should high schools become more tolerant of cheating?
2. The SAT has a stronger emphasis on vocabulary.If you're an ardent wordsmith, you'll love the SAT. If words aren't your thing, you may do better on the ACT.
3. The ACT has a Science section, while the SAT does not.You don't need to know anything about amoebas or chemical reactions for the ACT Science section. It is meant to test your reading and reasoning skills based upon a given set of facts. But if you're a true science-phobe, the SAT might be a better fit.
4. The ACT tests more advanced math concepts.In addition to basic arithmetic, algebra I and II, and geometry, the ACT tests your knowledge of trigonometry, too. That said, the ACT Math section is not necessarily harder, since many students find the questions to be more straightforward than those on the SAT.
5. The ACT Writing Test is optional on test day, but required by many schools.The 25-minute SAT essay is required and is factored into your writing score. The 40-minute ACT writing test is optional. If you choose to take it, it is not included in your composite score — schools will see it listed separately. Many colleges require the writing section of the ACT, so be sure to check with the schools where you are applying before opting out.
6. The SAT is broken up into more sections.On the ACT, you tackle each content area (English, Math, Reading and Science) in one big chunk, with the optional writing test at the end. On the SAT, the content areas (Critical Reading, Math and Writing) are broken up into 10 sections, with the required essay at the beginning. You do a little math, a little writing, a little critical reading, a little more math, etc. When choosing between the SAT and ACT, ask yourself if moving back and forth between content areas confuse you or keep you energized?
7. The ACT is more of a "big picture" exam.College admissions officers care about how you did on each section of the SAT. On the ACT, they're most concerned with your composite score. So if you're weak in one content area but strong in others, you could still end up with a very good ACT score and thus make a strong impression with the admissions committee.
(The above information is from the following website: www.princetonreview.com/college/sat-act)
EXAMPLE SAT: What is your view of the claim that something unsuccessful can still have some value?
ACT: In your view, should high schools become more tolerant of cheating?
2. The SAT has a stronger emphasis on vocabulary.If you're an ardent wordsmith, you'll love the SAT. If words aren't your thing, you may do better on the ACT.
3. The ACT has a Science section, while the SAT does not.You don't need to know anything about amoebas or chemical reactions for the ACT Science section. It is meant to test your reading and reasoning skills based upon a given set of facts. But if you're a true science-phobe, the SAT might be a better fit.
4. The ACT tests more advanced math concepts.In addition to basic arithmetic, algebra I and II, and geometry, the ACT tests your knowledge of trigonometry, too. That said, the ACT Math section is not necessarily harder, since many students find the questions to be more straightforward than those on the SAT.
5. The ACT Writing Test is optional on test day, but required by many schools.The 25-minute SAT essay is required and is factored into your writing score. The 40-minute ACT writing test is optional. If you choose to take it, it is not included in your composite score — schools will see it listed separately. Many colleges require the writing section of the ACT, so be sure to check with the schools where you are applying before opting out.
6. The SAT is broken up into more sections.On the ACT, you tackle each content area (English, Math, Reading and Science) in one big chunk, with the optional writing test at the end. On the SAT, the content areas (Critical Reading, Math and Writing) are broken up into 10 sections, with the required essay at the beginning. You do a little math, a little writing, a little critical reading, a little more math, etc. When choosing between the SAT and ACT, ask yourself if moving back and forth between content areas confuse you or keep you energized?
7. The ACT is more of a "big picture" exam.College admissions officers care about how you did on each section of the SAT. On the ACT, they're most concerned with your composite score. So if you're weak in one content area but strong in others, you could still end up with a very good ACT score and thus make a strong impression with the admissions committee.
(The above information is from the following website: www.princetonreview.com/college/sat-act)
SAT specs.Format
Critical Reading: 2, 25-min sections and 1, 20-min section Math: 2, 25-min sections and 1, 20-min section Writing: 1, 25-min essay, 1, 25-min section, and 1, 10-min section Scoring Math, Critical Reading, and Writing scores will each range between a 200-800; total SAT score ranges between 600-2400 Wrong Answers Penalized – you lose ¼ of a point for incorrect answers (except on the grid-in math questions) Math Covered Arithmetic, data analysis, algebra I and II, functions, geometry; formulas are provided in the test booklet Popularity With private schools and schools on the east and west coasts; however, every four-year college in the US accepts SAT scores Cost Registration fee: $52.50 Late fee: $28.00 Wait list fee: $46.00 (if you miss late reg. you can sign up for wait list and pay if you get a seat) Correct Answers: $18.00 (service that provides you with copy of answers after the test) **Find info about SAT subject tests HERE Reporting Fees Free Reports: 4 free reports, within 9 days after test Cost of Additional Reports: $11.25 per school Rush Reporting: $31.00 per school |
ACT Specs.Format
English: 1, 45-min section Math: 1, 60-min section Reading: 1, 35-min section Science: 1, 35-min section Writing: 1, 40-min essay (optional - check with your college) Scoring English, Math, Reading, and Science scores will each range between 1-36. Composite ACT score is the average of your scores on the four sections; ranges between 1-36. Writing is scored separately from 1-12. Wrong Answers Not penalized – you do not lose points for incorrect answers Math Covered Arithmetic, algebra I and II, functions, geometry, trigonometry; no formulas are provided Popularity With public schools and schools in the Midwest and south; however, every four-year college in the US accepts ACT scores Cost Registration fee: $54.50 ($38.00 with out writing) Late fee: $24.00 Wait list fee: $47.00 (if you miss late reg. you can sign up for wait list and pay if you get a seat) Correct Answers: $20.00 (service that provides you with copy of answers after the test) Reporting Fees Free Reports: 4 free reports, selected when registering Cost of Additional Reports: $12.00 per school Rush Reporting: $16.50 per school |
As of Spring of 2016 the SAT will be redesigned. Information comparing the new SAT to the current format and the ACT can be found HERE
Fee Waivers are available for both tests if you meet certain eligibility criteria. See your counselor for help with this. Waivers are applicable ONLY to registration fees not late fees or score reports.
Fee Waivers are available for both tests if you meet certain eligibility criteria. See your counselor for help with this. Waivers are applicable ONLY to registration fees not late fees or score reports.
Rock the Tests With PrepThere are many places out there that offer prep for pay with various success for students. In the area Sylvan Learning, Learning Ascent and Kaplan online offer prep for pay. Below are options for free prep.
Number2 offers free questions to help you get ready for the ACT and SAT: HERE
Sparknotes offers prep and test taking suggestions for ACT, SAT, SAT Subject Tests and AP Subject Tests: HERE Kaplan offers a FREE practice test: HERE Khan Academy offers SAT prep: HERE ACT Crash Course is a YouTube video that gives last minute test taking strategies: HERE Gail Borden Library offers a variety of test prep options: HERE |
registerFind test dates register by using the links below. Be aware of deadlines for registration or there will be late fees!
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