<p>Do I have to take both the SAT and ACT or would taking one suffice? Are those two tests similar (like studying for one of them can prepare one for the other test as well)? </p>
<p>Thanks.</p>
<p>You definitely are not required to take both. A VAST majority of high school students take only the test that is most popular in their area. This is the norm even among applicants to top schools. That being said, many people benefit from trying both tests. There are enough differences between the two that many people score significantly higher on one test than on the other. Studying for one test will likely help you on the other, but that degree of study will not be sufficient to prepare you for success on the second test. If you choose to take both, you should study for each individual test enough to at least get familiar with its format and what sort of questions are asked.</p>