Standardized Tests: The SAT and ACT
Many colleges require you to submit scores from standardized admissions tests. Preparing in advance for these 
tests can have a big impact on your scores. Remember: test scores are just one part of your application and will 
be viewed together with your grades and activities. 
The Tests: Which to Take? 
The SAT and ACT are both college entrance exams accepted by most colleges and universities. Colleges do not 
prefer one test over the other, so students should choose the exam that best fits their strengths.
•The SAT focuses on reading, writing, and math skills. It is taken digitally and generally gives students more time 
per question.
•The ACT includes English, reading, math, and science. The science section focuses on reading graphs, charts, 
and data.The ACT moves at a faster pace than the SAT.
Most students take the SAT or ACT (or both) during their junior and/or senior years of high school. Many take  
them multiple times to try to improve their scores. It is wise to take them at least twice. Your English or math  
teacher, or your school counselor, can help you decide which test is a better fit for your learning style. You  
should try sample questions from each to determine the test with which you are most comfortable.
•For free practice SAT tests, visit www.khanacademy.org/digital-sat or www.schoolhouse.world/w/sat-bootcamp.
•For free practice ACT tests, visit www.act.org and select “Test Prep.”
SAT
ACT
Comparing the SAT and ACT
Three required sections: 
• English
• Mathematics
• Reading
Two optional sections: 
• Science
• Writing
The test is offered in both paper and digital formats.
A perfect score is 36.
• Scores range from 1 to 36, which is the average of the three 
required sections.
• The average score that colleges use is called a Composite Score.
• The optional writing and science sections are scored separately.
• Learn more about ACT scoring at www.act.org and click  
on “Scores.”
Two hours and 5 minutes for English, Mathematics,  
and Reading, plus an additional 35 minutes for Science and
40 minutes for Writing.
Format
Scoring
Length
Two required sections: 
• Reading and Writing
• Math
The test is in an adaptive format. 
The test is digital.
A perfect score is 1600.
• Scores range from 400 to 1600 on 
the required sections and are the total 
number of points scored on:
  ° Reading and Writing (200-800)
  ° Math (200-800) 
Two hours and  
14 minutes.
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Applying to College

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