In order to attend a four-year college, high school students must take and submit scores from either of two national tests: the College Board’s SAT or American College Testing’s ACT.

The SAT consists of sections on critical reading, mathematics and writing. For the first part of the test, students write an essay. Each of the three sections is scored on a 200-800 point scale, making 2400 the highest possible score on the SAT.

In contrast, the ACT contains sections on English, mathematics, reading, science and an optional writing test. Students who choose to write the essay must pay an additional fee. Each of the four required sections is scored on a 1-36 scale; the scores from the four tests are then averaged to give the composite score.

Although the two exams are similar, many students find that they score comparatively better on one than on the other.

“I think the ACT is easier than the SAT, because on the ACT you don’t really need outside knowledge — all of the information needed is on the test,” Bridget Teixeira, ’11, said. “I felt the SAT was more difficult because it had stuff on it I hadn’t learned. I got a really high score in English on the ACT but an average score on the SAT.”

To do well on the SAT, the College Board website suggests taking challenging courses, studying, reading and writing, both within and outside the classroom.

Besides working hard in school, it may be beneficial for students to take the PSAT/NMSQT to familiarize themselves with the format before taking the actual SAT.

“To prepare for the SAT, it is best to know what kind of questions they ask on the test,” Megan Stewart, ’11, said. “Practice vocabulary, maybe even check out books from the library, and take practice tests. It is worth it to study hard and get into the college you want.”

In addition, some students purchase and use study books from Barron’s, The Princeton Review or the test organization itself to prepare for the exams.

“I winged it on the SAT because it was the day after the Selland game, but for the ACT I read a study book,” Teixeira said. “I will retake the SAT to improve my score.”

Besides focusing in school and reading study books for both the ACT and SAT, there are tutoring groups that prepare students for the exams. Some of these organizations include Club Z and Sylvan Learning.

“To study, I think I will join an organization called Club Z Tutoring,” Teixeira said. “For students who have not taken them [SAT and ACT], I think it would be a good idea to take the practice test to see where your weaknesses are and then focus on that area. Also, get a study book, because they give some very helpful study habits and hints for the test.”

In addition to the SAT and ACT, some colleges, such as the University of California, require students to take and submit scores from SAT Subject Tests. While the other exams evaluate general knowledge and skills, the Subject Tests examine students’ understanding in a specific area. (Check out the College Board website for a list of the 20 Subject Tests.)

As someone who will be applying to UC campuses, senior Will Gonzales is preparing to take two Subject Tests.

“I haven’t done much to prepare for the Subject Tests, but I prepared more for the SAT in general,” Gonzales said. “The subjects I’m taking are Math [Level] 2 and U.S. History. These tests are extra because UC schools require them.”

For SAT information and registration, visit the College Board website. For ACT information and registration, visit the ACT website. For more coverage of standardized testing, read the Oct. 12 article, PSAT tests skills, preparation.

Tweet