SATs Versus ACTs

Preparing for your academic future means taking all of the right steps to get there, and the SATs or ACTs prep in Massachusetts might be the perfect path to consider. Many parents begin their child’s college journey by taking one of these tests but which is a better option? The team at Shrewsbury Learning Experts are here to help.

Both of these tests address similar kinds of content and are used by colleges to aid in the admission process and potentially for scholarship opportunities. They are both take around 3-4 hours to complete, depending on if your child takes the optional essay. Here are some of the largest differences between the two:

The SAT claims to measure aptitude for learning, while the ACT measures achieving in math, writing, and reading. The ACT also provides a science section which relies on students’ abilities to read a passage about a scientific topic and answer the questions that follow.

SAT Subjects: Reading, Math, Writing and Language, Essay (Optional)

ACT Subjects: Reading, Math, English, Science Reasoning, Essay (Optional)

The SATs require five reading passages while the ACTs require 4. The SATs also cover data analytics and do not allow calculations for one of the two math sections while ACTs do not include data analytics and allow a TI-83 calculator for the entire math section. Finally, the SATs are scored from 400-1600 while the ACTs are scored 1-36.

The best way to know which is best for you?

Fortunately, many colleges out there becoming “test optional” for the SATs and ACTs and will not be held against students who opt not to take these exams. For those who excel on standardized tests or want to add positively to their entire academic record, these tests can be a beneficial decision.

Take full-length practice tests of both! With such similarities between the two, there might be one test that works better for you. If your child excels in critical thinking, it might be ideal to take the ACTs to highlight those talents while the SATs might be perfect for those who do well with time to think and create extremely comprehensive answers.

Shrewsbury Learning Experts would love to work with your child to help prepare them for whatever tests they decide to take to improve their scores and make a positive impression on universities and other establishments that want to see their skills put to the test.

With more questions about SAT or ACT prep for your child, please contact our team today by calling (508) 845-0000.