TIP OF THE WEEK - January 18

The ACT and SAT Tests

Planning for college takes a lot of time and effort, but when done correctly,

can help save wasted time and money attending the wrong college.

ACT vs. SAT

There is a difference between the ACT and the SAT. Some students

choose to take one and some take both SAT and ACT tests. The differences

between the two are outlined below.

The ACT Test

• Tests more on curriculum-based skills

• Time: 2 Hours, 55 Minutes

• Verbal Skills Focus: Grammar, punctuation and syntax

• Includes: Science & trigonometry

• What some experts say: "...more knowledge-based and straightforward"

The SAT Test

• Tests on problem-solving and general reasoning skills

• Time: 3 Hours, 45 Minutes

• Verbal Skills Focus: Vocabulary

• Does NOT Include: Science & trigonometry

• What some experts say: "...more nuanced, puzzle-like, trickier"

• Colleges & universities claim they don't have a preference for one over the other.

Typically it is better to take both and see which one you perform better on. You may choose to send both ACT and SAT scores to each college you apply to, or you may choose to send one or the other.

ACT & SAT Practice Test Tips

1) In order to get the most out of your SAT and ACT practice tests, be sure to take the test in an environment with no distractions, similar to what you would experience Taking the real ACT or SAT.

2) Make sure to take the SAT subject tests after you have completed the course in that section. EX: take the Chemistry subject test after taking the AP Chemistry class at your high school.

3)Take the SAT or Act during the fall of your junior year as a benchmark. Many students take the tests again their senior year to see if they can get a better score.