Retake SAT or ACT?

Test Preparation
1

<p>I just got back my june SAT score, and now I am unsure of whether I should take the ACT or retake the SAT in the fall. I have never taken or studied the ACT before, but my guidance counselor encouraged me to try it (this was before the june SAT score). However, I received a score of 800M 740CR and 800W, which I was told equated to a 35/36 on the ACT. An experienced upperclassman told me that I should retake the SAT to get a higher score in CR instead of taking the ACT in the fall. (I would need to score a perfect score on the ACT in order for it to surpass my SAT score he said).</p>

<p>There are a some factors that I need to consider though:</p>

<ol>
<li><p>I know I can score a higher score in CR and SATs, whereas I do not know what I can score on the ACT.</p></li>
<li><p>I want to take SAT physics in the fall because I'm interested in that field and I am positive I can do well on it.</p></li>
<li><p>I can only take 1 SAT or SAT II before EA, ED, or SCEA for colleges (I'm a rising senior)</p></li>
<li><p>but I already have 2 SAT II scores that are very good (800), and 1 that is still good (750+) so I don't know if it is all that important if my EA/SCEA/ED schools receive one more good SAT II score.</p></li>
<li><p>I have taken the SATs twice so far. (My first time was a 2220 - very big improvement; I was very nervous my first time).</p></li>
<li><p>I am aiming for schools such as HYPSM, Ivies, and other top colleges.</p></li>
</ol>

<p>I also know classmates and people who have retaken 2380s and such, but also people who have not retaken 2300+. So I'm really kind of split between this decision here.</p>

<p>I realize that colleges have a holistic view on students, but I am honestly having a lot of trouble making this decision. To be honest, I have a lot of time to study because it's early in the summer, and I am sure I can do a section of practice everyday for 30 minutes or so. In the end, it probably is not a very very big deal, but I still have to make a decision ultimately, and I'm having a lot of trouble with it. I value other people's opinions on this very much, so please share your insight. I appreciate it! :)</p>

2

<p>You could retake the SAT because not only are you more familiar with its format, but you’re probably more likely to improve on it because you mentioned that you know you’ll be able to do better on the CR. The ACT is easier, but less time is given and it has a science section that sometimes throws people off, but I don’t know if this would apply to you. If you’re dying to boost that CR, then take the SAT, which might end up being higher than your ACT anyway.</p>

<p>You scored a fine score of 2340, which is already in the high caliber range of top schools. I think you’d be able to benefit more if you were to take the physics subject test in october and do well on that. </p>

<p>Hope you do well on whatever test you choose to take. :)</p>

3

<p>Spend your time on your essays. Your SAT score gets you over the hurdle for SAT score “requirements” at every school in the world. As for classmates and people who have retaken 2380s- they should see a shrink; they have no perspective or real feel for reality and what those top schools are seeking.</p>

<p>If you have so much time on your hands, devote that time to your passionate ECs.</p>

4

<p>Congratulations on your score and no, don’t retake it and don’t take the ACT. Invest your time in something that will make a difference…your new score wont.</p>

5

<p>thanks you guys for you advice! I think the cons outweigh the pros in this decision, and I am more than happy to concentrate on my EC’s :slight_smile: , not to mention my college applications. I’ll still do SAT physics though just because I love learning physics and it is convenient to prepare since I’m taking AP physics next year. Once again, thanks!</p>