Researching what each college requires for the admissions process can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding various testing requirements. This blog post will break down the differences between the SAT and ACT, explore the concept of test-optional policies, discuss test prep resources, and provide guidance on when to send your test scores. You will finish this article with a clearer understanding of the standardized testing landscape.
Standardized Tests in College Admissions - The SAT vs. The ACT
The goals of the SAT and the ACT are the same: they are standardized tests colleges and universities use to assess a student's readiness for college. While they serve a similar purpose, there are differences between the two exams. It is important to note that all colleges and universities will take EITHER test (more on this later).
SAT:
Structure: The digital SAT consists of two sections: Reading and Writing and Math. Students have 64 minutes to complete the Reading and Writing section and 70 minutes to complete the Math section for a total of 2 hours and 14 minutes. This new digital SAT is adaptive, meaning the questions will get easier or harder depending on how your child does on the question beforehand. There is more time per question on the SAT.
Scoring: Each of the two main sections is scored on a scale of 200-800, with a total score range of 400-1600. The optional Essay is scored separately.
Content Focus: The SAT emphasizes reading, writing, and math problem-solving. The reading passages are shorter. It includes questions on algebra, geometry, trigonometry, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math topics.
ACT:
Structure: The ACT includes four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. There is also an optional Writing (Essay) section. The questions on the ACT are generally thought to be more straightforward. The ACT is 3 hours long.
Scoring: Each section is scored on a scale of 1-36. The composite score is the average of the four sections, ranging from 1-36. The optional Writing section is scored separately.
Content Focus: The ACT covers a broader range of subjects, including science reasoning. The math section includes a few higher-level math concepts like trigonometry.
Choosing Between the SAT and ACT:
Personal Strengths: Encourage your teenager to take practice tests for the SAT and ACT to see which test suits their strengths and test-taking style.
Look at a Concordance Chart: Both the SAT and the ACT publish concordance charts that compare an SAT score to an ACT score so you can tell which one is higher. Compass Prep has great tools and charts to help your teenager decide which test might make more sense. The direct link is below.
Test-Optional Policies
In recent years, many colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, which means students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend. However, recently, some colleges and universities have returned to requiring test scores for admissions. The FairTest website has the most comprehensive list of test-optional schools (direct link below).
Benefits of Test-Optional Policies:
Reduced Stress: Test-optional policies can reduce anxiety and pressure for students who do not test well.
Holistic Admissions: Colleges may emphasize other aspects of the application, such as GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. They also might require an interview with your child. It can be a more personal way for your child to go through the admissions process.
Considerations:
Scholarships: Some scholarships still require standardized test scores, so it’s essential to research the specific requirements for financial aid.
Strengthening the Application: If your teenager’s test scores are strong and reflect their academic abilities, submitting them can still enhance their application.
Research How Many Students Submit Scores: If only 11% of students who apply submit test scores, then you can make an assumption it is not important in the admissions process for that school; however, if more than half of students who apply submit their scores, it might be worth considering submitting scores. This information can be found on the College Navigator website (more information below).
Test Prep Resources
Preparation can be one key to performing well on the SAT or ACT. What is best for your student depends on how self-motivated they are. Here are my recommended test prep resources:
Official SAT and ACT Practice Tests: The College Board (SAT) and ACT, Inc. offer free practice tests and study materials on their websites.
Khan Academy: Offers free, personalized SAT prep based on your teenager’s PSAT scores. Kahn Academy is my number one recommendation for SAT practice. Direct link below.
Test Prep Books: Numerous books offer practice tests, study tips, and strategies.
Tutoring Services: If your child needs more personalized assistance, consider hiring a tutor or enrolling in a test prep course.
What is a Good Score?
It depends. A good score is always relative, depending on which colleges your student plans to apply to. Most colleges publish the middle 50% of test scores for their admitted students. This will tell you the average score for an admitted student. Remember that 25% of students scored above this middle, and 25% scored below. However, if your student's score falls somewhere in the middle 50%, it is probably a "good" score for that school. You can easily look at a school's middle 50% by searching for a school on the College Navigator website and then clicking the admissions drop-down line.
When to Send Test Scores
Knowing when to send test scores can be a strategic decision in college admissions.
Send Scores When:
They Enhance the Application: If your teenager’s test scores are above the average range for their target schools, it can bolster their application.
Required for Scholarships: Ensure that scores are submitted if necessary for merit-based scholarships or specific program admissions.
Don’t Send Scores When:
Scores are Below Average: If the scores are significantly lower than the school’s typical range and might detract from the application, it may be best to withhold them if applying to test-optional schools.
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances of college admissions testing requirements, including the differences between the SAT and ACT, the implications of test-optional policies, and the strategic use of test scores, is crucial for supporting your teenager through the admissions process. Equip them with the right test prep resources, encourage them to take practice tests, and help them make informed decisions about when and where to submit their scores. Your teenager can confidently navigate this important aspect of their college journey with thoughtful planning and preparation.
As always, I look forward to your conversations with your students, teens, and young adults. Let's make this journey joyful and transformative for them!
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Direct Links
College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
Compass Prep: https://www.compassprep.com/
FairTest: www.fairtest.org
Khan Academy: https://www.khanacademy.org/digital-sat
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