There are two main college entrance tests in the United States. They are made by different companies, but serve the same purpose: a way for colleges to compare their applicants in a standardized way. This is important because grade systems and curriculum vary greatly across the country. Though their purpose is the same, their formats are different. I would encourage you to look at each test, and maybe take some practice tests of each to see with which you feel most comfortable.
Here are the links to each site. Take some time to research your options. This is also where you register to take the test.
Here are the links to each site. Take some time to research your options. This is also where you register to take the test.
These tests are most commonly taken in the spring of junior year. Though it seems that the ACT is talked about more in the Midwest, and the SAT® is brought up on the coasts, I have not heard of a school not accepting either test. With over 4000 institutions across the U.S., there may be some exceptions. Therefore, as with most things colleges, check with your colleges of interest directly to find out their testing policies. In the state in which I reside, Illinois, the state has switched from providing an ACT to all students to now providing the SAT. It is yet to be determined as to how this will affect the numbers/types of tests taken.
By far, the most common testing policy at schools is to take the highest composite test score. A college rep once told me for those who doubt this, that taking the highest score is a WIN-WIN. It is good for the student, and it is good for the institution because they report their average test scores for admitted students. This allows them to use a higher score.
You may have heard of the term “superscoring.” This refers to colleges mixing and matching scores of subparts of tests taken on different dates to come up with a higher overall score. This is important to know for admission and scholarship purposes, but remember it doesn’t necessarily give you an edge over other students because they do this for everyone applying to their institution.
Test Preparation
I’ve seen a wide range of preparation that have been successful. I’ve observed students enrolled in group or individual tutoring sessions that give students helpful hints and a formal timeline/schedule to keep on track. Sometimes these options can get expensive. I have also seen highly motivated students study on there own by using books (check out your library) and internet resources. In fact, I have once seen a student get a perfect 36 on the ACT preparing all on his own! Though this is not common, it just goes to show that different options work best for different students. I would suggest you talk to your school counselor about different test prep options in your area.
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