SAT vs ACT: A Complete Guide

Are you feeling overwhelmed about choosing between the SAT and ACT? You're not alone. Many high school students face the same dilemma. Both tests play a crucial role in college admissions, but deciding which one suits you best can be challenging.

The SAT and ACT are standardized tests used by colleges to assess your readiness for academic success. Each test has its unique structure, content, and scoring system. Making the right choice can impact your college application process significantly.

In this comprehensive guide, we will break down the differences between the SAT and ACT, provide preparation tips, and help you decide which test aligns with your strengths. Get ready to navigate this important decision with confidence.

What are the SAT and ACT?

The SAT and ACT are standardized tests designed to measure a high school student's readiness for college. The SAT, administered by the College Board, focuses on evidence-based reading, writing, and math, including an optional essay. The ACT, administered by ACT, Inc., covers English, math, reading, and science, with an optional writing section.

Purpose of Each Test

• SAT: Assesses literacy and math skills essential for college success.
• ACT: Provides a broader assessment of educational development based on high school learning.

Why These Tests Matter

Role in College Admissions

SAT and ACT scores are critical components of college applications. Admissions officers use these scores to gauge academic preparedness and compare applicants from diverse educational backgrounds. A strong performance can enhance your application, making you a more competitive candidate.

Impact on Scholarship Opportunities

High SAT or ACT scores can open doors to various scholarship opportunities. Many colleges and private organizations offer scholarships based on standardized test scores. Excelling in these tests can significantly reduce the financial burden of college education. Therefore, choosing the right test and preparing effectively is crucial for maximizing your college admission and scholarship prospects.

US College Admissions tutors can provide guidance on selecting the right test and creating a compelling application.

Key Differences Between the SAT and ACT

When deciding between the SAT and ACT, understanding their key differences is crucial. Both tests assess your readiness for college, but they have different structures, content, question styles, scoring systems, timing, and registration processes. Familiarize yourself with the SAT and ACT Exam Format to better understand the structure and timing of the test. Here, we break down these differences to help you make an informed decision.

Test Structure

SAT:

Number of Sections:

Four sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math with calculator, and an optional Essay.

Types of Questions:

The SAT includes multiple-choice questions, grid-in questions for math, and essay prompts (if opted).

ACT:

Number of Sections:

Five sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing Test.

Types of Questions:

The ACT primarily consists of multiple-choice questions, with the Writing Test requiring an essay.

Comparison Table: SAT vs ACT Test Structure

Content Comparison

SAT:

Reading:

2 modules with 4 reading passages.

Writing and Language:

Focuses on grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills.

Math:

Covers arithmetic, algebra I & II, geometry, trigonometry, and data analysis. Some questions allow the use of a calculator.

ACT

English:

Tests grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills.

Math:

Covers arithmetic, algebra I & II, geometry, trigonometry, and probability & statistics.

Reading:

Includes passages from prose fiction, social science, humanities, and natural science.

Science:

Tests critical thinking skills, not specific science knowledge.

Optional Writing Test:

Requires an essay analyzing and evaluating complex issues.

Question Styles

SAT:

Emphasizes evidence-based reading and data interpretation. Questions often require finding evidence in the passages and interpreting graphs and tables.

ACT:

Focuses on direct questions and a straightforward approach. Includes a science section that tests analytical skills rather than specific scientific knowledge.

Scoring System

SAT:

Score Range:

Total score ranges from 400 to 1600.

How Scores are Calculated:

Each section (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math) is scored on a scale of 200–800. The optional essay is scored separately.

ACT:

Score Range:

Composite score ranges from 1 to 36.

How Scores are Calculated:

Understanding ACT scoring is crucial for setting realistic goals and interpreting your results accurately. Each section (English, Math, Reading, Science) is scored on a scale of 1–36. The composite score is the average of these four sections. The optional writing test is scored separately.

Comparison Table: SAT vs ACT Scoring System

Timing and Pace

SAT:

Total Time:

How long is the SAT? The exam lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes.

Time Per Section:

Reading and Writing: 64-minute section with 54 questions

Math: 70-minute section with 44 questions

ACT:

Total Time:

The ACT length is 2 hours and 55 minutes (3 hours and 40 minutes with the optional writing test).

Time Per Section:

English: 45 minutes

Math: 60 minutes

Reading: 35 minutes

Science: 35 minutes

Optional Writing: 40 minutes

Comparison Table: SAT vs ACT Timing

Test Dates and Registration

SAT:

When It Is Offered:

The SAT is offered seven times a year: in March, May, June, August, October, November, and December.

How to Register:

Registration is available online at the College Board website. It involves creating an account, selecting a test date and location, and paying the registration fee.

ACT:

When It Is Offered:

The ACT is offered seven times a year: in February, April, June, July, September, October, and December.

How to Register:

Registration is available online at the ACT website. It involves creating an account, selecting a test date and location, and paying the registration fee.

Understanding these differences helps in making an informed decision about which test aligns best with your strengths and college admission goals. Whether you choose the SAT or ACT, thorough preparation is key to achieving a high score.


Detailed Analysis of the SAT 2024 Format

Understanding the SAT Exam Formatis crucial for effective preparation.

Major Changes in SAT 2024

The SAT 2024 introduces significant changes aimed at enhancing the test's relevance and accessibility. One of the most notable updates is the transition to a digital format, moving away from the traditional paper-based test. This shift aims to streamline the testing process and provide faster results.

New Section Formats

The new SAT format will consist of two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. The sections have been redesigned to focus more on the skills essential for college readiness and success.

Digital vs. Paper Format

The digital format will be more adaptive, meaning the difficulty of questions can adjust based on the test-taker's performance. Thisadaptive scoring aims to provide a more personalized testing experience, offering a more precise assessment of a student's abilities.

Scoring Updates

Scoring remains on a scale of 400-1600, but the digital format will enable quicker score reporting. Students can expect to receive their scores in days rather than weeks. The adaptive nature of the test can also impact the final score by tailoring the difficulty to the student's level.

What to Expect in the New SAT

Reading and Writing:

Integrated into a single section focusing on critical reading and writing skills.

Math:

Emphasizes data analysis, algebra, and problem-solving, with an increased use of real-world scenarios in math section.

New Question Types:

Includes more technology-enhanced questions, such as drag-and-drop and interactive graphs.

Test-Taking Strategies

Adapting to the digital format will be crucial. Practice using digital tools and familiarize yourself with the new question types. Focus on time management, as the adaptive nature of the test could impact pacing. Utilize official practice tests to get comfortable with the new format and improve your test-taking confidence.

Choosing Between the SAT and ACT

Deciding whether to take the SAT or the ACT is a significant decision that can impact your college admissions prospects. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice.

For non-U.S. students, the SAT and ACT guide for international students can provide valuable insights into test prep and college admissions.

Self-Assessment

Strengths and Weaknesses

Understanding your academic strengths and weaknesses is crucial in deciding which test to take. The SAT tends to focus more on evidence-based reading and data analysis, while the ACT includes a science section that tests critical thinking skills. If you excel in science and prefer straightforward questions, the ACT might suit you better. Conversely, if you are strong in reading and writing and prefer a test that breaks down math into more specific categories, the SAT could be the better choice.

Practice Tests

Taking practice tests for both the SAT and ACT can provide valuable insights into which test aligns better with your skills. These tests will help you identify which exam you feel more comfortable with and where you score higher. They also highlight areas that need improvement, helping you tailor your study plan effectively.

Time Management Skills

Time management is another critical factor. The SAT allows more time per question compared to the ACT. If you struggle with time pressure, you might prefer the SAT's pacing. Conversely, if you can work quickly and efficiently, the ACT's faster pace might be advantageous.

Factors to Consider

College Preferences

Check the testing requirements of the colleges you’re interested in. Some schools may prefer one test over the other, although most accept both. Additionally, certain colleges superscore the SAT but not the ACT, or vice versa.

Subject Proficiency

Evaluate your proficiency in subjects tested by each exam. The SAT has a stronger emphasis on math and evidence-based reading, while the ACT includes a distinct science section and a broader range of math topics, including probability and statistics.

Test-Taking Style

Consider your test-taking style. If you prefer a test with a straightforward approach and questions directly related to what you’ve learned in school, the ACT might be more suitable. If you are comfortable with questions that require critical thinking and interpreting evidence, the SAT could be a better fit.

Pros and Cons

Advantages and Disadvantages of the SAT

Pros:

• More time per question
• Strong emphasis on reading and writing
• No specific science section

Cons:

• Math is divided into calculator and no-calculator sections
• Evidence-based reading can be challenging

Advantages and Disadvantages of the ACT

Pros:

• Includes a science section
• Tests straightforward school knowledge
• All math questions allow calculator use

Cons:

• Faster pace can be challenging
• Science section can be difficult for some

SAT vs ACT Pros and Cons

Practice Tests

Importance of Taking Practice Tests for Both Exams

Taking practice tests is essential for understanding the format, timing, and question types of each exam. They help you build familiarity and reduce test-day anxiety. Practice tests also allow you to apply test-taking strategies and improve your pacing.

How to Interpret Practice Test Results

Analyze your practice test results to identify patterns in your performance. Focus on sections where you lost the most points and understand why you missed certain questions. Use this analysis to guide your study plan, focusing on weak areas while reinforcing your strengths. Regular practice and review will help you improve your scores and build confidence for the actual test.

Comparison Table: Practice Tests

By thoroughly evaluating your skills, preferences, and practice test performance, you can make a well-informed decision between the SAT and ACT, positioning yourself for success in the college admissions process.

ACT to SAT Conversion

Converting your ACT scores to SAT scores can help you understand how your performance on one test might translate to the other. Many colleges use conversion tables to compare applicants who have taken different tests. Here’s a detailed look at how the conversion process works and its implications.

Conversion Table

The following table provides a rough comparison between ACT composite scores and SAT total scores. This table can help you see how your ACT score translates into an SAT score.

Comparing SAT and ACT Scores

How Colleges Use Conversion Scores

Colleges use conversion scores to create a level playing field when evaluating applicants who have taken different standardized tests.

By converting ACT scores to SAT scores, admissions officers can compare all applicants on a common scale. This is especially useful for colleges that have applicants from across the country or internationally, where testing preferences might vary.

Pros and Cons of Converting Scores

Pros:

• Standardized Comparison: Conversion tables allow colleges to fairly compare students who have taken different tests.
• Flexibility: Students can choose which test to take based on their strengths and still be fairly evaluated.
• Insight for Students: Helps students understand where they stand in terms of college readiness across different testing formats.

Cons:

• Accuracy: Conversion is not always perfectly accurate due to the inherent differences in test formats and content.
• Test Preferences: Some colleges might still have a preference for one test over the other, even with conversions.
• Misinterpretation: Students might misinterpret their strengths and weaknesses if they rely solely on conversion tables without understanding the content differences.

ACT vs SAT: Which is Easier?

Determining whether the ACT or SAT is easier depends on various factors and can be subjective.

Factors Affecting Difficulty:

• Test Structure: A calculator is allowed throughout the SAT math section and more emphasis on reading comprehension, while the ACT includes a science section and allows calculators for all math questions.
• Timing: The ACT has a faster pace with less time per question, which can be challenging for some students. The SAT provides more time per question but includes more complex, multi-step problems.
• Question Style: The SAT focuses on evidence-based reading and data interpretation, while the ACT questions are more straightforward and directly related to high school curricula.

Subjective and Objective Differences:

• Subjective: Personal strengths in science, math, or reading can make one test feel easier.
• Objective: The SAT's adaptive digital format allows the calculator for both section just like the ACT’s continuous calculator use and science reasoning section offer distinct challenges.

Ultimately, "easier" depends on the individual's skills and test-taking style.

Merit Scholarships for SAT and ACT

Scholarship Opportunities Based on SAT Scores

Many colleges and universities offer merit-based scholarships to students who achieve high SAT scores. These scholarships can range from partial to full tuition and are awarded based on a combination of SAT scores, GPA, and other academic achievements. Some prominent scholarship programs that consider SAT scores include:

• National Merit Scholarship: High scorers on the PSAT/NMSQT can qualify for this prestigious award, which often considers SAT scores in the final selection process.
• Institutional Scholarships: Many colleges offer significant merit scholarships for students with high SAT scores. For instance, state universities often have tiered scholarship programs where perfect SAT scores result in larger awards.
• Private Scholarships: Numerous organizations and foundations provide scholarships based on SAT performance. Examples include the Coca-Cola Scholars Program and the Dell Scholars Program.

Scholarship Opportunities Based on ACT Scores

Similarly, high ACT scores can unlock various scholarship opportunities. These scholarships also range from partial to full tuition and are awarded based on ACT scores, GPA, and other achievements.

Key scholarship programs for ACT scorers include:

• State-Based Scholarships: Programs like the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship reward students for high ACT scores and strong academic records.
• College-Specific Scholarships: Many institutions offer merit-based scholarships for high ACT scores. For example, some universities provide automatic scholarships for students meeting specific ACT score thresholds.
• National Programs: Scholarships like the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship Program consider high ACT scores among other criteria.

How to Maximize Scholarship Potential

To maximize your scholarship potential with SAT or ACT scores, consider the following strategies:

• Prepare Thoroughly: Use official prep materials, take practice tests, and consider tutoring to achieve the highest possible score.
• Apply Early: Many scholarships have early deadlines, so start your search and application process well in advance.
• Research Opportunities: Look beyond national programs and explore local scholarships, institutional awards, and niche opportunities based on your interests and background.
• Maintain Strong Academics: Scholarships often consider GPA and extracurricular involvement alongside test scores. An AP tutor can help you excel in Advanced Placement courses, which can complement your SAT or ACT scores in college applications.
• Retake the Test: If your initial scores aren't as high as hoped, consider retaking the SAT or ACT to improve your chances of qualifying for more scholarships.
• Highlight Achievements: Ensure your applications showcase your academic, extracurricular, and personal achievements to stand out in the competitive scholarship landscape.

By excelling on standardized tests and strategically applying for scholarships, you can significantly reduce the financial burden of college education.

Which Test Should I Take: the SAT or ACT?

Deciding between the SAT and ACT depends on your strengths and test-taking style. Use the table below to help make an informed decision:

Different factors of SAT and ACT

Quick Tips:

• If you prefer more time per question and are strong in reading and data interpretation, consider the SAT.
• If you excel in science, prefer straightforward questions, and can handle a faster pace, the ACT might be better for you.

Take practice tests for both exams to further determine which test aligns best with your strengths and preferences.

When Should You Take the SAT or the ACT?

Deciding when to take the ACT is an important step in your college admissions process, typically in the spring of your junior year. This is the same for SAT.

Optimal Testing Timeline

The optimal time to take the SAT or ACT is during the spring of your junior year in high school. This timing allows you to complete most of your core coursework, providing a strong foundation for the test. Additionally, taking the test in the spring leaves ample time for retakes if necessary.

Considerations for Junior and Senior Years

Junior Year:

• Spring Testing: Aim to take your first SAT or ACT in the spring of your junior year. This allows you to get a feel for the test and identify areas for improvement.
• Summer Preparation: Use the summer before your senior year to address any weaknesses identified during your first test.

Senior Year:

• Fall Retakes: Schedule a retake in the fall of your senior year if needed. This ensures you have your best scores ready for early application deadlines.
• Final Attempts: Plan a final test date in the late fall or early winter, if necessary, to meet regular application deadlines.

Retake Strategies

• Evaluate Scores: After your initial test, evaluate your scores and determine if they meet your target schools' requirements.
• Focused Preparation: Focus on the sections where you scored the lowest. Use targeted study materials and consider tutoring if necessary.
• Practice Tests: Take additional practice tests to improve your comfort and performance.
• Schedule Wisely: Allow at least two months between test dates to provide adequate time for preparation.

Comparison Table: Junior vs. Senior Year Testing

By following this timeline and strategically planning your test dates, you can maximize your SAT or ACT scores and strengthen your college applications.

ACT and SAT Costs

When planning for college entrance exams, it's important to consider the costs associated with each test.

• The SAT costs $60
• The ACT costs $68 without writing and $93 with writing

Fee waivers are available for eligible low-income students, covering the basic test fees. Additional costs can include prep materials, online courses, and tutoring, which range from free resources to several hundred dollars.

Both tests offer fee waivers to cover registration, with eligibility typically based on financial need and meeting specific criteria. Considering these costs ensures you are prepared both academically and financially.

Preparation Tips for Both Tests

Preparing for the SAT or ACT requires a strategic approach to maximize your scores. Here are some general and test-specific tips to help you succeed.

General Study Tips

Start Early: Begin your preparation several months in advance to allow ample time to cover all test areas. Early preparation reduces stress and provides more opportunities for improvement.

Create a Study Schedule: Develop a consistent study plan that allocates time each week to different sections of the test. A structured schedule helps you stay organized and ensures comprehensive coverage of all test material.

Use Official Practice Tests: Regularly taking official practice tests is crucial. These tests familiarize you with the format and timing, helping you identify strengths and weaknesses. Review your answers to understand mistakes and learn from them. An English tutor can assist you in mastering the reading and writing sections of both the SAT and ACT.

Consider getting an SAT tutor if you need personalized assistance with specific sections or overall test strategy. For students in the International Baccalaureate program, an IB tutor can provide targeted support to help balance IB coursework with SAT or ACT prep.

SAT-Specific Tips

Prepare for the SAT by using a variety of resources, including official practice tests and study guides.

Focus on Reading Comprehension: The SAT places a significant emphasis on reading comprehension. Practice by reading a variety of texts and answering questions that test your understanding of the content, tone, and structure.

Brush Up on Algebra and Data Analysis: The math sections of the SAT cover a range of topics, with a strong focus on algebra and data analysis. Ensure you are comfortable with these areas by reviewing key concepts and solving related problems.

Practice with New Digital Tools: With the transition to a digital format, practice using the new digital tools provided in the test. Familiarize yourself with features like drag-and-drop and interactive graphs to improve your efficiency on test day.

ACT-Specific Tips

Master the Science Section: The ACT Science Section evaluates your critical thinking skills through interpretation of data and scientific information. Practice analyzing graphs, tables, and experiments to excel in this section.

Mastering the English Section: Mastering the ACT English Section requires a solid understanding of grammar and rhetorical skills.

Review Trigonometry Concepts: ACT math covers a broader range of topics, including trigonometry. Make sure you understand and can apply trigonometric concepts and functions.

Speed Reading Techniques: The ACT is known for its fast pace, especially in the reading section. Practice speed reading techniques to improve your ability to quickly comprehend and respond to questions.

By following these tips and dedicating consistent effort, you can enhance your performance on both the SAT and ACT, ultimately boosting your chances of achieving a high score and gaining admission to your desired colleges. Working with a Math tutor can help strengthen your skills in algebra and data analysis for the SAT or in trigonometry for the ACT.

Resources and Study Materials

To excel on the SAT and ACT, utilizing a variety of resources and study materials is essential. Here are some of the best official resources, recommended books, and online options to help you prepare effectively.

Official Resources

SAT:

• College Board Resources: The official SAT website provides free practice tests, sample questions, and a detailed breakdown of the test format and content.
• Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy: Partnered with the College Board, Khan Academy offers personalized SAT practice plans, video tutorials, and full-length practice tests. This free resource is invaluable for targeted practice and feedback.

ACT:

• ACT.org Resources: The official ACT website offers a wealth of study materials, including practice tests, sample questions, and tips for each section of the test.
• ACT Academy: This free resource provides personalized learning tools, practice tests, and instructional videos to help you prepare for the ACT. It tailors study plans based on your strengths and weaknesses.

Recommended Books and Guides

Top SAT Prep Books:

• "The Official SAT Study Guide" by College Board: This book includes eight official practice tests, detailed answer explanations, and comprehensive reviews of each section.
• "SAT Prep Black Book" by Mike Barrett: Known for its practical strategies and detailed explanations, this guide helps students understand the SAT's structure and how to tackle each question type.

Top ACT Prep Books:

• "The Official ACT Prep Guide" by ACT: Featuring real ACT questions, detailed explanations, and full-length practice tests, this guide is essential for serious test-takers.
• "ACT Prep Black Book" by Mike Barrett: Similar to its SAT counterpart, this book offers strategic insights and practical tips to maximize your ACT score.

Online Courses and Tutoring

Benefits of Online Courses:

• Flexibility: Online courses allow you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule.
• Interactive Learning: Many online courses include interactive elements such as quizzes, video tutorials, and live sessions with instructors.

An online tutor offers flexible scheduling and personalized instruction, which can be beneficial for test prep.

How to Choose a Tutor:

• Experience and Expertise: Look for tutors with strong credentials and a proven track record in improving student scores.
• Personalized Approach: Choose a tutor who offers customized study plans based on your individual needs and learning style.

Top Recommended Platforms:

• Khan Academy (SAT): Offers free, high-quality practice and instructional videos tailored to the SAT.
• ACT Academy (ACT): Provides comprehensive and personalized learning resources for the ACT.
• Princeton Review: Offers both SAT and ACT prep courses with various options, including self-paced, live online, and in-person tutoring.
• Kaplan: Known for its extensive prep materials and experienced instructors, Kaplan provides a range of courses and tutoring options for both tests.

Explore options among the best tutoring companies in the USA to find the right support for your test preparation. By leveraging these resources and study materials, you can create a robust preparation plan that enhances your understanding, builds confidence, and ultimately leads to higher test scores.

Role of Test Scores in Admissions Decisions

Test scores play a significant role in college admissions. They provide a standardized measure to compare applicants from different educational backgrounds. Admissions officers use these scores to assess academic preparedness, predict college success, and make informed decisions about who to admit. High scores can strengthen your application, especially if your GPA or extracurriculars are less competitive.

Test-Optional Policies

Many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning they do not require SAT or ACT scores for admission. These policies aim to reduce stress on applicants and promote a more holistic review process. However, strong test scores can still enhance your application, even at test-optional schools, by demonstrating your academic abilities.

Sending Scores to Colleges

How to Send SAT Scores

Sending your SAT scores to colleges is straightforward:

1. Log in to your College Board account.

2. Select the "Send Scores" option.

3. Choose the colleges you want to receive your scores.

4. Pay the required fee (unless you have a fee waiver).

You can send scores to four colleges for free during registration. Additional reports can be sent for a fee.

How to Send ACT Scores

To send ACT scores, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your ACT account.

2. Go to "Send Your Scores."

3. Select the colleges or scholarship programs.

4. Pay the required fee.

Similar to the SAT, you can send scores to four colleges for free when you register for the ACT. Additional reports require a fee.

Superscoring - What is Superscoring and How It Works

Superscoring is a practice used by some colleges where they consider the highest section scores across multiple test dates. For example, if you took the SAT twice, the college would take your highest Math score and highest Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score, even if they were from different test dates. This can significantly boost your overall score.

Which Colleges Superscore

Many colleges and universities superscore the SAT, and a growing number are starting to superscore the ACT as well. It's essential to check each college's policy on their admissions website. Here are some notable institutions that practice superscoring:

• SAT Superscoring: Most Ivy League schools, MIT, and Stanford.
• ACT Superscoring: Harvard, Yale, and the University of Chicago.

Understanding how your test scores are used in the admissions process, how to send them, and how superscoring can benefit you will help you maximize your application potential.

Registration Process for the SAT

1. Create an Account: Go to the College Board website and create a College Board account.

2. Fill in Your Information: Provide personal details, select your high school, and answer other necessary questions.

3. Choose a Test Date and Center: Select a convenient test date and location from the available options.

4. Upload a Photo: Follow the guidelines to upload a recent, recognizable photo.

5. Pay the Fee: Pay the registration fee online. Fee waivers are available for eligible students.

6. Print Your Admission Ticket: After completing the registration, print your admission ticket, which you’ll need to bring on test day.

Registration Process for the ACT

1. Create an Account: Visit the ACT website and create an ACT account.

2. Enter Your Details: Fill out your personal information, high school details, and other required data.

3. Select a Test Date and Location: Choose your preferred test date and location.

4. Upload a Photo: Upload a photo according to the provided guidelines.

5. Pay the Fee: Pay the registration fee online. Fee waivers are available for those who qualify.

6. Print Your Admission Ticket: Print the admission ticket to bring on test day.

Test Day Essentials - What to Bring

• Admission Ticket: Printed ticket from your registration.
• Photo ID: Government-issued or school ID.
• Pencils: Two or more No. 2 pencils with erasers.
• Calculator: Approved calculator for the math sections.
• Snacks and Water: For breaks, stored in a clear bag.
• Watch: To manage time, but make sure it doesn’t have an audible alarm.

What to Expect

• Check-In: Arrive early to check in and find your seat.
• Test Environment: Follow the proctor’s instructions, maintain silence, and stay focused.
• Breaks: There will be scheduled breaks; use them to eat snacks and relax.

Test Day Strategies

Time Management:

• Pace Yourself: Know the time limits for each section and practice pacing during prep.
• Watch the Clock: Use a watch to keep track of time.

Handling Test Anxiety:

• Stay Calm: Practice deep breathing techniques to stay relaxed.
• Positive Mindset: Focus on your preparation and stay confident.

Last-Minute Review:

• Light Review: Go over key concepts but avoid cramming.
• Relax: Ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the test day.

Accommodations - How to Apply for Accommodations for Disabilities

1. Early Request: Start the application process early, as it can take several weeks.

2. Documentation: Provide documentation of your disability and the need for specific accommodations.

3. Submit Request:

• SAT: Submit through the College Board’s Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD).
• ACT: Submit through ACT’s Test Accommodations Department.

4. Approval: Wait for approval and confirmation of your accommodations.

5. Prepare: Ensure you understand how your accommodations will be implemented on test day.

By following these steps and strategies, you can ensure a smooth registration process and a successful test day experience.

Conclusion

Choosing between the SAT and ACT is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of your strengths, preferences, and college goals. By understanding the structure, content, and scoring systems of both tests, as well as how colleges use these scores in admissions, you can make an informed choice. Utilize official resources, practice tests, and preparation strategies to improve your performance. Remember to consider the costs and registration processes, and apply for accommodations if needed. Ultimately, whether you take the SAT or ACT, thorough preparation and a positive mindset will set you on the path to success. Believe in yourself, and you'll achieve your academic goals.