ACTs

The ACT is a college admissions examination that consists of subject area tests in English, math, reading and science. A writing section is optional.

        

Why should students take the ACT or SAT?

Four-year colleges and universities use these tests to determine applicants’ academic achievement and potential. As part of their admissions requirements, some colleges require applicants to have earned certain minimum test scores. Other colleges use test scores as indicators of academic ability when students’ grades are not high enough to meet admissions standards. ACT and SAT test scores also serve as criteria for numerous financial awards.

How do I know if I should take the ACT or the SAT?

Some colleges prefer one or the other exam; however, most colleges accept either. Students should check with each school individually to see if they have a preference. Students who haven’t yet decided on a specific college may want to take both exams. To see which test you did best on, see the conversion chart. If the college accepts both exams, students should choose the one that will most favorably reflect their abilities. The chart below illustrates the major differences.