Should I take the SAT or ACT???

Applying to College
1

I’m currently debating whether to take the SAT or ACT as my primary college entrance exam? I’m in the middle of my junior year right now.
I have taken one SAT test this December and got a 1350 (1600 scale) on it. I’ve studied for this test since July.
However, this winter break, I’ve decided to get a taste of the ACT and took a practice test. I scored a 30 (36 scale) on it with no prior study.
I’m definitely a math-oriented person but i’m still having trouble deciding either although I did notice major differences b/t both tests. I would like to know other people’s insights/experiences taking either test

2

IMO take the ACT. It has both math and science since you’re a math person. If you’re really conflicted, look at the colleges you plan on applying to and look at their average scores for each test. There’s no reason to retake the test if their average scores are within the 25-30, 1300-1400 range.

3

Take both and use whichever is higher.

4

My answer is the same as when you asked the exact same question 14 hours earlier.

http://talk.qa.collegeconfidential.com/sat-act-tests-test-preparation/2169075-should-i-take-the-sat-or-act.html

5

If you’re scoring a 30 on ACT without any prep, it might be worth it to study up and take that test next. After that, definitely use whichever one is higher and/or fits into the score range of the college you’re applying to.

6

Oh I just made this one bc i thought the 1st one didn’t post

7

I would say go with the ACT. The ACT is changing and starting in September of this year, they will allow you to retake the portions of the test that you want to improve on rather than the whole thing. i.e. if you are satisfied with your math and science score you can retake the English portion. FWIK the SAT does not allow you to do that. There is less free online help for the ACT and most schools only offer free help for the SAT though. If timing is your problem get a “count down watch” and practice with that for the ACT. I also liked that with the ACT you get your scores back quicker.

8

Thanks for all your insights, I decided to give the SAT a go one more time in march, if my score doesn’t improve, I’m going to take the ACT

9

FWIW my kid’s guidance counselor said that 1/3 of students do better on the SAT, 1/3 do better on the ACT, and 1/3 do the same on both.