SAT vs. ACT: What Test should your Student take?

SAT and ACT Making the Right Choice for Your Student

For decades, the SAT and ACT were gatekeepers to college admissions. Today, the landscape has shifted: most of U.S. colleges are test optional, but this is subject to change. This gives students more flexibility — but also raises new questions: Should I test? Should I submit scores? Do I need both SAT and ACT? Please verify if the Institution you are applying for is test-optional.

This chapter will help you navigate testing decisions, preparation, and strategy.

Why Testing Still Matters

Even in a test-optional world:

Strong scores help. If your GPA is good and you submit competitive scores, it can strengthen your application.

Scholarships. Many merit aid and state programs still require test scores.

Test-required schools. Some highly selective programs (engineering, nursing, military academies) still mandate them.

💡 Rule of thumb: Take the test, then decide whether to submit scores later.

SAT vs. ACT: What’s the Difference?

Feature SAT ACT

Length 2 hrs 14 min 2 hrs 55 min

Sections Reading/Writing, Math English, Math, Reading, Science

Math Level Up to Algebra II Includes Trig

Style More time per question, reasoning focus Faster pace, content-heavy

Popularity East/West coasts Midwest/South

💡 Colleges accept both equally. Choose the one that plays to your strengths.

Step-by-Step Testing Plan

Freshman Year (9th)

Focus on building strong math and reading foundations.

Take PSAT 8/9 if offered (low-stakes practice).

Sophomore Year (10th)

Take the PSAT 10 (practice only).

Consider a practice SAT/ACT to identify strengths.

Junior Year (11th)

August: Start studying for the PSAT 6 weeks prior to the test.

September: Register for the SAT in October after PSAT. Retake in Spring if needed.

October: Take PSAT/NMSQT → chance for National Merit.

Fall/Winter: Begin test prep (3–6 months is ideal).

Spring: Take official SAT/ACT.

Retest if needed to improve scores.

Senior Year (12th)

August/September: Last chance for testing before early deadlines.

December: Final test dates for most colleges.

Test-Optional Strategy

1. Research College Policies

Some schools are test-optional for admissions but test-required for scholarships.

2. Compare Your Scores to School Averages

If your SAT/ACT is at or above the school’s middle 50% range → submit.

If below → consider withholding (especially if GPA is strong).

3. Balance with Your Profile

High GPA + low test score → better to go test-optional.

Strong test score + average GPA → test can offset.

💡 Submitting is optional, but taking the test is not optional — at least not until you know your options.

Test Prep Tips

Start Early: Ideally junior fall.

Choose the Right Tools: Khan Academy (free), ACT Academy, prep books, or tutoring.

Practice, Practice, Practice: Full-length timed tests are the best prep.

Focus on Weaknesses: Don’t just redo what you already know.

Consistency Over Cramming: 30 minutes/day > 4 hours once a week.

✅ Testing Checklist

For Students:

Take a diagnostic SAT & ACT to compare.

Choose one test to focus on.

Register early to secure local test dates.

Create a prep plan (self-study, course, or tutor).

Track school score ranges and submission policies.

Decide test-optional strategy for each college.

For Parents:

Cover registration costs ($60–$85/test).

Encourage consistent study habits.

Avoid pressure — remind your student test scores are one piece of the puzzle.

Keep deadlines and scholarship requirements on radar.

Key Takeaways

SAT and ACT still matter, even in a test optional era.

Strong scores can improve admissions chances and unlock scholarships.

Take both tests early → choose one to focus on.

Always test, but only submit scores if they strengthen your application.

Prep is about strategy and consistency, not last-minute cramming.

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