Most U.S. colleges and universities require you to take either the SAT or ACT.
These tests evaluate your knowledge and reasoning skills in a standardized way, which helps colleges assess your academic readiness.
Good scores on the SAT or ACT can demonstrate your critical thinking skills and your commitment to your education, both of which are important to college admissions.
Both the SAT and ACT are widely accepted by colleges. Your goal is to choose the test that best matches your strengths. Many international students are more familiar with the SAT, but that doesn't mean it’s the best choice for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about these tests, how to choose between them, and tips for preparing to achieve your best score.
The SAT vs the ACT
Choosing between the SAT and ACT depends on your educational background, strengths, and personal preferences. U.S. Colleges accept both tests equally, so you should focus on which one you can score higher on.
While the SAT has traditionally been more popular among international students, the ACT might be a better option if you are particularly strong in math and science. The ACT includes a Science section and covers some advanced math topics that the SAT does not.
The best way to choose between the SAT and ACT is to try out sample questions and practice tests for both. This will give you a better idea of which test suits your strengths and give you the best chance to score well.
SAT Overview:
● Sections: Reading & Writing, Math (with and without a calculator)
● Duration: 3 hours
● Scoring: Each section is scored on a scale of 200-800, with a total score range of 400-1600.
● Key Features: Focuses more on evidence-based reading, writing, and math skills. It does not have a science section, but the math section includes data interpretation and problem-solving. Learn more about the digital SAT here.
ACT Overview:
● Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing section
● Duration: 2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing), 3 hours 35 minutes (with Writing)
● Scoring: Each section is scored on a scale of 1-36, with a composite score averaging the four sections.
● Key Features: Includes a Science section that tests data analysis and interpretation. The Math section includes more advanced topics like trigonometry.
Pros and Cons of the SAT vs the ACT
When choosing between the SAT and ACT, it's important to consider which test aligns best with your learning style, academic strengths, and testing preferences. Here’s a breakdown of key features that might influence your decision:
Pace
The ACT tends to have a faster pace, making it ideal for students who work quickly. On the ACT, you have about 50 seconds per question, compared to 70 seconds on the SAT. If you prefer to work at a more relaxed pace, the SAT might be a better fit for you.
Both tests are similar in length, but their structures differ. The SAT has fewer but longer sections, whereas the ACT is divided into more, shorter sections. If you find it challenging to stay focused on lengthy tasks, the ACT might suit you better. On the other hand, if frequent changes in sections distract you, the SAT could be a better choice.
Science & Math
The ACT includes a 35-minute Science section, which can be challenging if science is not your strong point. If you find science difficult, you might prefer the SAT, which does not have a dedicated Science section.
Regarding math, the ACT allows calculators for all math questions, while the SAT only permits calculators on some questions. The SAT emphasizes mental math skills and might be more challenging if you are not comfortable with solving problems without a calculator. The SAT also focuses more on algebra and less on geometry and trigonometry compared to the ACT.
Scantron
The ACT allows calculators for all math questions, but it does not provide basic formulas, which are available on the SAT. Additionally, the ACT emphasizes geometry and trigonometry, which might be more challenging if these are not your strengths. If you struggle with these areas, the SAT might be a better option.
Format
The SAT and ACT use different formats that could impact your performance. The ACT uses a mix of 'ABCD' and 'EFGH' answer keys and features a layout that many find easier to read, potentially reducing the likelihood of making errors.
If you have difficulty with spatial perception or reading small print, the ACT’s format might be more accommodating, though the challenge level remains high.
In summary, select the test that aligns with your strengths and preferences. Consider the pace, subject emphasis, and format of each test to make the best choice for your needs.
How to Register for the SAT or ACT
Both the SAT and ACT have an online registration process and require a fee. You’ll need to choose your test center, select a test date, and provide your personal and payment details. You can visit the official exam websites to find more information on test dates and the registration process.
● Registering for the SAT
To register for the SAT, you’ll need to visit the College Board website. It’s a good idea to start the registration process early, ideally in your sophomore or junior year, so you have the option to retake the test if you want to improve your score. Make sure to register at least one month before your desired test date to avoid any late registration fees.
● Registering for the ACT
If you opt for the ACT, you’ll need to register through ACT, Inc. The ACT website will provide information on test dates in your country. International test dates usually fall in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July.
If there’s no nearby testing center, you might be able to arrange special testing.
Make sure to review what items are allowed on test day and how many times you plan to take the ACT. For more details, you can check out the guide to ACT registration.
Planning Your Test Prep Timeline
Preparing for the SAT or ACT takes time, and it’s important to start well in advance. Many students begin preparing a year or more before their test dates. Some even take the test early in high school to gain experience. If you’re serious about improving your score, especially if English isn’t your first language, aim to start studying at least six months before the exam.
Many schools consider a "super score", which combines the best scores from different sections of multiple test attempts. Because of this, students often perform better if they take the test more than once. If possible, taking the test multiple times is recommended. Between tests, you should focus on areas where they struggled and take the time to improve.
You should register for the SAT or ACT at least one month before your test date. Remember that it takes about two to four weeks to receive your scores, so plan your test dates well ahead of any college application deadlines. By the time you register, you should have a clear list of the colleges and universities you’re applying to so you can send your scores directly to them.
Keep in mind that your entire high school journey — including your classes, extracurricular activities, and any work or volunteer experiences — contributes to your college application. Along with your test scores, teacher recommendations and other aspects of your high school experience will play a significant role in your university admissions process.
Preparing for the SAT and ACT
Preparation is key to performing well on the SAT or ACT. Here’s how to get started:
No.1: Create a Study Plan:
● Start preparing at least six months before your test date.
● Set a study schedule that covers all test sections, with a focus on your weaker areas.
● Use official SAT and ACT practice tests to familiarize yourself with the test format and question types.
No.2: Use Study Resources:
● Access free practice tests and study guides available online through the College Board, ACT, Inc., and other reputable sources.
● Consider using prep books, online courses, or tutoring if you need additional support.
● Join or form study groups with other students to stay motivated and share resources.
No.3: Practice Regularly:
● Practice under timed conditions to get used to the pace of the test.
● Focus on areas where you struggle, whether it’s math problems, reading comprehension, or science reasoning.
● Review your mistakes and understand why the correct answers are right.
Preparing for the SAT or ACT as a Canadian student might seem daunting, but with the right approach, you can achieve your goals. Start early, choose the test that aligns with your strengths, and use the best resources available to prepare. Remember, practice is essential, so take advantage of every opportunity to improve your skills before test day.
Good luck with your test preparation and future college and university applications!
Comments