<p>Well, I'm taking the SAT again in October but I'm unsure of when to take the ACT since there's one in both September and October...? Which is best/ only option if I want to apply for early decision?? Sorry if this sounds redundant or obvious, I'm just really clueless on this stuff. </p>
<p>Unless cost is an issue, sign up for September and October, but make sure that you’re adequately prepared for the test. At least you will go into the September test knowing you have one more shot at the test; plus, by the time you get back your September score, it will likely be too late to sign up for the October retake if you need it.</p>
<p>Is this your first time taking each test?</p>
<p>Hi no, this will be my 3rd time taking the ACT - yes I know that’s enough already but I’ve never studied for them at all, and I’m an upcoming senior… (Still not that much of an excuse but) but I am taking prep classes for both the SAT and ACT and not sure when to take the ACT test… I’m not sure if taking it both times will be worth my while since if I take it both times I’ll be taking it a total of 4 times… I just don’t know if the October test is too late for early decision.</p>
<p>Generally speaking, 3 times is okay, 4 is somewhat excessive. It depends on what your highest score is on the ACT thus far, how much you have prepared since then, and where you’re planning to apply. Also, how many times have you taken the SAT so far?</p>
<p>It’s pretty low, a 22. I’m taking some prep classes, and will also be practicing on my own at home. As for the SAT, i will be taking it a 4th time this October, again excessive, but i don’t plan on going to ivy so… And I’d rather take it a fourth time then leave my low score alone. Again, I’m also taking SAT classes and also practicing at home. As to where… Mainly Texas schools, the best schools I can get into with my grades - vague I know… Any recommendation on when to take the ACT? </p>
<p>If you feel ready, go for September. October ACT would seem a bit overwhelming with the October SAT (plus school will be in full gear by then). But, make sure that your practice test scores are solid before going in. If that means taking it in October, then so be it. Some level of stress will always be there, but it’s important that stress related to preparation level is at a minimum. Keep this in mind when making your decision.</p>
<p>Hope this helps! Good Luck! :)</p>
<p>Thank you! I appreciate the help!</p>
<p>Oh and one more question/ just making sure… Is taking the ACT October test too late for any ED applications?? I know it all depends on the school… But I’m just wondering…</p>
<p>I also heard from teachers that if I don’t apply early decision that I have a very low chance of getting into a school if my grades aren’t high - so early decision is my only choice. Is this true? </p>
<p>If a certain school is your first choice, you should apply ED there. Applying ED obviously makes you look more committed to attending the school, so you should have a better chance. </p>
<p>Thanks. I decided to take the September ACT and <em>if</em> my grades are too low, I can take the October test as a final resort… Obviously don’t want to do that, but if I must, I will… </p>
<p>Did your teachers mean ED or EA? It’s best to apply EA to most publics (and a lot of private ones) because you get first dibs on any scholarships/merit.
You just have to be careful about when they expect a response back from you if accepted - some can be limiting that way (frex want an answer back by January of you apply EA). Ideally you should have until May to compare all your offers.
ED is only for The One True College - you really want to go there and you know you can afford it. Many kids do not apply ED anywhere at all.</p>