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Which Test do I Take - SAT or ACT?
Deciding on which standardized test to take is a frequently asked question. We recommend that you take both as colleges and universities accept either test when considering your admission application. Taking both tests allows you to determine which test is best suited for your individual testing style, as there are differences between them. Upon receiving your tests scores, we suggest that you analyze your results and then take the test that you did best on one more time to maximize your scores. Clearly, this is a suggested strategy, we realize that some students have found that other options may work best for them. Should you have questions, please feel free to speak with your counselor, or with Mrs. Smith in the DHS Career Center.
SAT vs ACT - How are the tests different?
SAT ACT
Sections Consists of math, writing and critical reading Consists of math, english, reading and science
Scoring Sections scored from 200-800 and then Sections scored from 1-36 and then averaged
added together. The highest score is 2400 together. The highest score is 36
Essay Required essay (scored out of 12 points) Optional essay (scored out of 12 points.) Note that
many colleges require it
Math Arithmetic, Alegbra and Geometry Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry and Trigonometry
Multiple Choice Multiple choice questions have 5 answer choices Multiple choice questions have 4 answer choices
Style Critical Reasoning Applied Knowledge
Grid-Ins Math "Grid-Ins" require you write in answers No math "Grid-Ins"
Guessing Better to skip than guess - you lose points Guess away - you don't lose points for wrong
for wrong answers answers
Schedule Administered 7 times each year Administered 6 times each year
Cost $49 SAT, $22 SAT Subject, $10.50 scores $49.50 ACT w/ Writing, $10 scores