Choosing Between the SAT or ACT

ACT or SAT? Which standardized test should you take to get into college? So many college-bound students struggle with the question of which test is "better", but unfortunately rely on hearsay from other students, rather than some solid information. Some students even get caught up in the ACT/SAT anxiety and application frenzy to the point of taking both tests and then submitting their higher score. But this may be going through undue stress, and the fees for taking the tests may be a financial constraint for others. Here are some facts that you can use in evaluating which test is best for you; the ACT (Academic College Testing) or the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test).

Different tests required by different schools?
Not any more. Years ago, it used to matter what college you were applying to, East and West coast schools typically only accepted SAT scores for admission. In the Midwest, the ACT was the standard. Now all four-year colleges in the United States do accept the ACT, with only a handful of schools left refusing the SAT.

Different strengths tested?
There are some significant differences in the types of things that each test focuses on.

ACT Strengths: The ACT bases its questions on specific curriculum-based information. It measures achievement, or what specific facts you have learned in subjects taught in high school. Geometry, algebra II and trigonometry are covered. Grammar, punctuation and syntax are emphasized in its English section. An additional 30-minute Writing section is optional.

SAT Strengths: The SAT measures aptitude. That is, how well a student can apply general problem-solving and reasoning to the more abstract questions posed on the test. There is a greater stress on verbal skills and overall vocabulary proficiency. Math questions include geometry and algebra II, but no trigonometry.The main SAT (SAT I) does not include testing on science. However, some very selective schools will ask for additional scores from the SAT II Subject Tests, which could include science.

That being said, colleges will tell you that they do not favor either test, or see one as giving certain students an advantage. Rather, they use the score as one factor in a student's application that can help predict whether they will be successful in that program.

What is your test-taking personality?
ACT Characteristics: If you like cut-and-dried ideas, then the ACT may appeal to you more. Questions are straight forward and knowledge-based. High school students who work really hard to learn the material, and make high grades will probably perform best on the ACT. There are no points deducted for wrong answers, so guessing (if you are really lucky), could work in your favor. And if endurance is not your strong-suit, the ACT is a full 45 minutes shorter, lasting for 3 hours (not including breaks).

SAT Characteristics: The SAT has more nuances of meaning and deals in more abstract concepts. Students who are under-utilizing their intellect in high school may do better on the SAT when they get the chance to apply their good reasoning skills, but without the hindrance of all the factual details they missed out of boredom in classes they just sat through. Guessing at answers can bring your score down, as the test design is set up to take away a fraction of a point for wrong answers. A system meant to deter receiving points for random guesses.

Take practice tests to decide.
If you are still in the lurch with choosing a college entrance exam, then taking a free practice test could give you the final answer. Practice tests reflect the styles and type of content in each test. Free full-length practice tests are available online (http://www.act.org/aap/), (http://www.collegeboard.com/testing/). Bear in mind that the creators of each test will tell you theirs is the best. Of course their opinion is biased.

Go with what you feel comfortable with.
Go with the format that seems to work best for you. As a sort of self-fulfilling prophecy, the test that you believe you are more likely to perform well on, will be the one that you will get a better score on. You are the best assessor of your strengths. A shot of confidence from believing that you are taking the right test will boost your performance. After seriously considering the differences between the type of content and the style of the tests, choose the one that fits you best.