Let’s talk about standardized tests, specifically the SAT and ACT. What’s the purpose of the tests, you ask? They essentially gauge a high school student’s level of college readiness.
What is the SAT? The SAT is offered by College Board and it consists of Reading, Writing and Language, and Math. There is an optional Essay that is available as well. The test will take you 3 hours to complete (3 hours and 50 minutes with the Essay component).
What is the ACT? The ACT is offered by ACT, Inc and it consists of English, Reading, Math, and Science. Similar to the SAT, there is an optional Writing Component. The ACT will take you 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete (3 hours and 35 minutes with the Writing component).
Here’s a helpful snapshot that IvyWise.com created that compares the basics of each test:
| SAT | ACT | |
| Sections | Math, Reading, Writing, Optional Essay (Science passages embedded in all sections.) | English, Math, Reading, Science, Optional Essay |
| Time | 3 hours, +50 minutes with essay | 2 hours 55 min, +30 minutes with essay |
| Answering | 4 answer options, no point deduction | 4 answer options, no point deduction |
| Scoring | Out of 1600 – 800 math, 800 reading/writing | Out of 36 – 36 per section that is then averaged for composite; Essay scored separately on a 2-12 scale |
| Math Section | Two sections: One calculator allowed, one no calculator; 80 minutes; Less geometry, more algebra, pre-calculus & trigonometry added | One 60-question, 60-minute section. Tests pre-algebra through trigonometry. Calculator allowed entire time. |
| Reading Section | 5 passages, 2 with charts/diagrams, 1 historic document | 4 long passages with questions that require students to recall what they read. Questions in random order. |
| Science Section | No science section, however science-related passages will be peppered throughout the exam. | Science section covers reasoning, charts and graphs, and hypothesis. |
| Writing | 4 passages and 44 multiple-choice questions; 35 minutes | Just the essay. |
| Essay | 1 prompt and one full passage; 50 minutes; essay is optional | One topic and three perspectives; students evaluate and provide their own perspective with evidence; 40 minutes; essay is optional |
The SAT and ACT are widely accepted by all colleges throughout the nation, so the test you choose is up to you. If you are having trouble deciding which test to take, talk to your high school counselor. Did you take the PSAT/NMSQT your fall semester of junior year or maybe the PreACT during sophomore year? Your scores on these practice exams can also help you gauge how you may perform on the SAT and ACT respectively.
Before registering, you should be aware of the costs associated with both tests. The SAT is $49.50 ($64.50 with the Essay) and the ACT is $52 ($68 with Writing). The SAT and ACT offer fee waivers for students who meet the eligibility requirements, so please talk to your high school counselor about your options if the costs are a financial hardship for you and your family. Another task prior to registration researching the admission requirements for each school on your college list. Although the Essay component is optional for both tests, it may be required by your prospective colleges. Knowing this information ahead of time will ensure that you register for the correct version.
You should begin testing spring semester of junior year. Starting early gives you an opportunity to test more than once, especially if you are working to improve your score. You may also decide to take both the ACT and SAT because you may be stronger at one than the other. Before the test, however, you should take time to prepare. There are a variety of options available to you:
- Free resources – Utilize websites including ACT.org, College Board, and Khan Academy for free practice questions and tests.
- Test prep books – In addition to the major retailers (Amazon and Barnes & Noble), you should also consider visiting Half Price Books or other local bookstores for bargains.
- Test prep classes – Education consultants and centers are nationwide. Check out the services located in your area to see what they may offer.
- Teachers and counselors – They may have materials from previous years available to share with you or hold study sessions for interested students.
Before COVID, test scores were a core admission requirement for many colleges nationwide. The pandemic, however, forced the majority of schools to go test optional for the Fall 2021 admission cycle due to testing center closings and restrictions. A number of schools may continue their test optional policy for the Fall 2022 admission cycle so please be sure to make note of each university’s policies. Some test optional schools may request additional items for admission purposes. For instance, a resume or interview may be required in lieu of test scores.
If you are able to test and you receive strong test scores, definitely submit your score report because it will positively impact your application. However, if you are unable to test or if you did not receive the best score, your application will not be negatively impacted. The test optional policy allows for students to have their applications reviewed holistically. A holistic review essentially means that your application is reviewed beyond your academics (grades and test scores). The admissions committee will equally consider all components of your application, from extracurricular activities to letters of recommendation. This gives the committee insight as to who you are as a person.
Juniors, it’s time to start the conversation with your counselors, teachers, and parents about the SAT and ACT. I know this topic may seem overwhelming, but planning ahead will alleviate future stress in your college-going process. You’ve got this!
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