College entrance exams can often feel overwhelming for students and parents trying to determine the best test to take. There are two main tests that students can take in the United States: the ACT and the SAT. As a school counselor, I would have students and parents ask me which one was the best test to take. This is not an easy question to answer because both tests have their advantages and disadvantages. Let’s break each down so you can make the best possible decisions for yourself.
The SAT and ACT are both standardized tests used for college admissions in the United States. Both assess student knowledge and skills in reading, writing, and math, there are some key differences between the exams.
SAT
The SAT focuses more on reasoning and problem solving. For students that have good complex and abstract reasoning, the SAT may be a good test to take. There are 4 sections of the SAT: reading, writing and language, math (with and without a calculator), and an essay. This means that the entirety of the test is equal parts math and English skills. The SAT focuses on college-level reading and writing skills. Students that are good at reading complex passages and are able to break down concepts such as: main ideas, author’s meaning, drawing conclusions, and comparing information.
The SAT provides a slight advantage for students that are particularly strong in math. The math section is broken into two parts: students can use a calculator on one part and are not allowed to use a calculator on the other part. Students are also provided a formula sheet to assist with the math section. The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600. It is a 3-hour test (with an additional 50 minutes for the optional essay).

Students may find the structure and questions of the test to be more challenging than what they are used to seeing in high school. Students taking more advanced courses such as Advanced Placement, may be more prepared to complete the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing sections of the test. The SAT also only assesses English-related and math skills on the test, which means that students that have a strength in science are not able to demonstrate that on the SAT.
ACT
The ACT is more content based and straight forward than the SAT. The ACT is broken into 5 sections: English, math, reading, science, and the optional essay. The ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. The ACT is suited for students that have stronger content knowledge and prefer more straightforward questioning as well as those that excel at English-related skills, such as grammar and reading comprehension, or are proficient in science.
The test is 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 40 minutes for the optional essay). Many students like the science section of the test. Some math calculation is needed on the science portion; however, students are not allowed to use a calculator on this section. Despite this, students with a good science background are able to take advantage of using this knowledge to improve their score. Students are able to use an approved calculator on the entire math section; however, a formula sheet is not allowed. Some students may find the math section more challenging due to its more complex problem-solving requirements and not being able to use a formula chart. The English section tends to focus on grammar and syntax rules, which some students may find particularly difficult. The questions on the test are likely more similar to what students are familiar with in high school. The questions are more straightforward and test concrete reasoning.
So how do you decide which test is right for you? If a student’s strengths lie in critical thinking and problem solving, the SAT may be a better fit. If you a student prefers more straight forward questions and have strong content knowledge the ACT may be a better choice. Prior to making a decision on which test to take, students can try out a sample test to get a better idea of the test structure and questions. Practice test questions are available at the SAT website: www.collegeboard.org or ACT website: www.act.org.
One of the major concerns about selecting a test to take is the underlying worry about whether a specific college would accept it. Generally speaking, most colleges accept either the ACT or the SAT; however, if there is a specific college of choice, it is always a good idea to double check the admissions requirements. Typically, schools that accept both tests do not have a preference of one test over another. This can also be helpful because many colleges will have score requirements or at least an average score for acceptance.
Preparing for the test
Once a student has decided which test to take, there are a variety of test prep programs or tutors that can help students get ready. Khan Academy provides a free SAT test prep that can help students better prepare for the test. If your child is on a 504 plan or has an IEP, reach out to their school to get assistance on how to request accommodations for the test. This is a timely process, accommodations have to be approved by each testing organization, and certain accommodations can be denied by the testing organization, so it is best to apply as early as possible.
When signing up for the test, students will need to indicate the schools they are considering for application. It is best to select all the schools the student is going to be applying to for admissions. Scores are directly sent to the school from the testing organization once scored. If a student wants to add additional scores later, this can be done at an additional cost.
I have no preference on either test, and it truly does come down to personal preference. With a little research and preparation, your child can determine the best test to take to maximize their testing potential or they can always just take both.