Home » Do It Now Should I Take the SAT or the ACT?
Are you unsure whether you need to take the SAT or the ACT? You can take both. However, many times it is not required that you take both. When trying to decide which test to take, you should consider a few of the following things.
One way you can decide which test to take is by looking at the application requirements for the colleges that you want to apply. Some colleges will only accept one test. If that is the case, you must take the test that the college requires. However, many schools will accept either test.
If you are still unsure of which test you should take, a few other things can help you decide. You can and should take free practice exams of both tests in order to see which test format you are more comfortable with and which practice exam you score higher on. It is important that you choose the test that will best showcase your skills.
Some other things to consider:
ACT |
SAT |
|
| Components | 4 sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science reasoning) and optional writing section designed to test education level and readiness for college coursework | 10 sections (Critical Reading, Math, Writing, and Experimental) designed to evaluate problem solving and critical thinking skills |
| Focus | English – grammar and punctuation Math – up to Trigonometry Reading – passage comprehension Science – logic and chart reading |
Math – basic geometry and Algebra Reading – Sentence completion, reading comprehension, critical reading passages Writing � essay, grammar, and vocabulary |
| Format | All four sections are multiple choice. The optional writing portion is not multiple choice | The majority of the test is multiple choice. However, there is a math and a writing portion that is not multiple choice. |
| Wrong Answer Penalty | No penalty for wrong answers | Yes, lose 1/4 point per question answered incorrectly (except for Math grid-in portion) |
| Cost | All CPS juniors take the ACT free as part or their Prairie State Exam To take on your own it is $30 without the essay $44.50 with the essay Fee waivers are available |
$43 for the SAT Fee waivers are available |
Find out more
- Talk with your counselor or college advisor for help choosing which test you should take.
- Go to the following websites:
