During the COVID era, standard eye tests such as the SAT became optional for college submissions. However, although it is still technically an option, not submitting your test scores is not a wise decision if you wish to get into a top college. Those standardized tests display your test-taking ability and general knowledge to colleges. So, it would be wise to take one to increase your chances of getting into a top college.
The downside is that when you submit your scores, you want a good score to display how good you are at those skills to colleges. This takes a lot of time, studying, and effort over many hours to become proficient in those topics. Fortunately, two significant tests with slight differences play to students’ strengths. The only problem then is figuring out which test suits you better.
Available Tests
The SAT, or Scholastic Aptitude Test, is the most widely known test for students. Typically taken during junior year, many colleges use this test to gauge where students lie regarding test-taking skills and general knowledge.
The ACT, or American College Testing, is another widely known substitute for the SAT. Also typically taken in junior year, many colleges use the ACT in the same fashion as the SAT.
Section Breakdown
The SAT consists of two sections, English and math, with four modules in total. The English section is divided into reading and writing, which take 64 minutes each, and the math section is divided into calculator and non-calculator, which take 70 minutes each.
On the other hand, the ACT consists of four sections: reading, English, math, and science. Reading takes 35 minutes, English 45 minutes, math 60 minutes, and science 35 minutes. While they may have similar topics, it is clear that the SAT and ACTs have very different information ranges.
Scoring
The score range for the SAT is anywhere from 400 to 1600 points. Top colleges have a range of average SAT scores for accepted applicants, typically ranging from the high 1400s to 1600. If you have your eyes set on a particular college, it is wise to search their average SAT score in order to know what goal you are reaching for.
The same goes for the ACT. The scoring ranges from 1 to 36. Top colleges, in this instance, normally have a range of scores in the high 30s to ensure they accept top students.
Composition
Compared to each other, the SAT has fewer geometry questions and contains sections that the SAT does not, such as the non-calculator math section. This test does not feature a science section but may include science references in the reading section.
However, the ACT contains many geometry questions, in which you may always use a calculator. The ACT also has a specific science section, which includes lots of graphs and data analysis.
Although I am highlighting the differences, the SAT and ACT have the same goal—to test a student’s general knowledge and ability to take the test. At the end of the day, it is important to pick which test plays more to your strengths so that you may focus on test-taking strategies and practice rather than learning the actual topic. This way, you will be able to pick the college rather than have the college pick you.