I've heard some of my friends and teachers talking about the ACT. What is the ACT exactly and how does it compare to the SAT? Is it something I should look into for college admissions?
The ACT is a standardized test in the United States used for college admissions. Like the SAT, the ACT is designed to evaluate your college readiness, and scores are often taken into account by universities during the admissions process. While both tests serve a similar purpose, there are some differences between them that may make one more suitable for you than the other.
The main sections of the ACT are English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. The total score ranges from 1 to 36, and each main section is also scored on a scale of 1 to 36. The composite score is the average of the four main section scores, rounded to the nearest whole number. If you choose to take the writing section, you will receive a separate score for that part.
On the other hand, the SAT comprises two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. It employs a scoring scale of 400 to 1600. The EBRW and Math sections are both scored on a scale of 200 to 800, and their sum makes up your composite score.
When choosing between the ACT and SAT, consider factors such as the test format, question types, and the time allotted for each section. The ACT tends to have more straightforward questions but might require quicker decision-making due to the time constraints. Conversely, the SAT generally has more complex, reasoning-based questions but provides more time per question.
Some students find they perform better on one test over the other. To decide which test is better suited for you, it's a good idea to take practice tests of both the ACT and SAT and compare your results. In the end, you should take the test that you feel you'll perform better on, as colleges do not typically have a preference for one over the other.
It is essential to research the colleges you are interested in to see if they require or recommend submitting standardized test scores. As of the 2024-2025 application cycle, some schools have remained test-optional, which means you can choose whether to include your ACT or SAT scores in your application. However, other schools have reverted to requiring test scores, so make sure you're aware of each institution's policies before making your decision.
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