Differences between ACT and SAT

Make sure you are familiar with these two tests and know the difference between them. Some of the differences between ACT and SAT are as follows:

• The number of times that they are administered annually,
• Areas and topics being covered,
• Wrong answers penalty,
• Score calculation and scale,
• Score distribution process to colleges and universities,
• Administrating organization,
• Registration process and deadlines.

Taking SAT or ACT

Even though most colleges and universities accept ACT some schools require SAT. These schools use ACT results as complements to other information they receive about your academic performance. Therefore, the best this is to do some research on the admission process of the specific schools you would like to attend.

You can also consider your test taking strength/weaknesses in deciding what tests to take. If you are a student with good problem-solving skills or if critical thinking is your strength, then you should probably take SAT. If you have a strong academic background you may prefer to take ACT.

You can take some practice tests to better learn about your test taking ability and your knowledge. These tests can be taken on the Internet.

Remember that you can take ACT as many times as you wish and pick your best score for being reported.

Taking both tests (ACT and SAT) may also be a good idea for some students because they help the decision makers learn more about your academic knowledge, skills, and abilities from different perspectives. ACT can always be taken as a strong complementary piece of evidence about why you should be accepted.

Another reason for taking ACT is the SAT and ACT structural differences. Science is not present in SAT and if you are interested in science related majors, taking ACT will be a good way to convey that fact. When it comes to advertising your academic abilities, providing more information is better than less! Taking ACT could mean that you are a confident student who is ready to take challenges of the college level courses. For example, although the writing section of ACT is optional the 9 Big Top schools require it.

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