ACT & SATWhich One Is Right For Me?

Approximately 90% of schools in the U.S. use either the ACT or

SAT in making admissions decisions.

Source: National Association of College Admissions Counseling, “Preparation for College Admissions Exams”, 2009

It is important for students to understand which test, SAT or

ACT, is best suited for their strengths.

*KAPLAN

*KAPLAN

• Students with strong vocabulary skills often do well on the SAT because vocabulary is emphasized.

• Math questions on the SAT are meant to be tricky and are not straight forward. Formulas are given, but you must know how to apply them.

• No science questions are asked.• Reading tends to be less relevant to high school students.• The SAT is 20 minutes longer, and the required essay section

is given first.• Colleges care about how you do on each section of the SAT

in addition to your overall score.

*KAPLAN

*KAPLAN

• The ACT has some higher level math, including some trigonometry, but questions are straight forward. Formulas are not given, knowledge of basic formulas is required.

• The ACT has science questions, but they only involve ability to read charts, tables, and graphs.

• Reading tends to be more relevant to high school age students. Vocabulary is not emphasized.

• The essay portion is given last and is not always required.• The ACT is a “big picture” exam, and schools tend to focus

on your composite score rather than any one section.

Common Myths• Competitive schools only accept the SAT. (most schools

take either test)• Since you take the PSAT, you should take the SAT. (take

what’s best for you)• The ACT is easy. (both tests are tough)• Math on the ACT is more difficult. (SAT tends to be more

challenging because of wording)• I’m not good at science, so I should not take the ACT. (ACT

science questions only test your ability to reason given a set of facts, no upper level knowledge is necessary)

The Truth• How you do on each test depends on your individual

strengths and weaknesses.• Do some investigating and take the test that will make

you shine the brightest.• Your guidance counselor can help you decide which

test is best for you. The PSAT is also a good indicator. Above 150 on the PSAT SAT. Below 150 on the PSAT ACT.

• Most students should wait until 2nd semester of their junior year to take either test.

Preparing• Both www.collegeboard.com and www.act.org

offer full length practice tests online. • Woodstock High School offers SAT and ACT

prep classes each semester. Listen to announcements and info from your Wolverine Wednesday.

• More information on each test can be found at www.princetonreview.com.