ABSTRACT
The decision to register for and take either the SAT® or ACT® or both is a personal decision likely fueled by peer pressure, natural assumptions, and requirements imposed by colleges and universities. The rationale used in arriving at a choice is becoming clearer even among the cloud cover of an over-testing atmosphere. Students, you should consult your colleges’ website to determine the application requirements.
Many colleges do not require standardized tests. Some are test-optional, test-flexible, or test-blind. The two standardized exams are SAT® and ACT. These tests are normed and are reliable over time, meaning the more a student tests, the more similar and consistent their test scores are. There is no magic answer to the number or type of tests one should take and if one should take one over the other, or any at all. Most often, those who choose to test will take the SAT® or ACT® no more than two times. The ACT® and SAT® are universally accepted by any and all institutions accepting standardized assessment scores. There is no test preference. The SAT® and ACT® have many similarities but also key content and structure differences that may help you decide which test to take.
