Standardized Tests
 About the ACT
Traditionally, students on the east and west coasts have more commonly taken the SAT while those in the rest of the country have taken the ACT. With the recent changes in the SAT, the ACT has received more attention nationwide, and many parents are asking if it is right for their child.
What are the differences between the ACT and SAT?
Until recently the SAT was considered more of an aptitude test, while the ACT claimed to assess achievement. Now, with the changes in the SAT, they are more similar in general approach, though a number of differences still exist. For example, the SAT’s essay is mandatory, while the ACT has an optional essay. The ACT includes a science reasoning section (which, by the way, requires no specific science knowledge), while the SAT does not.
Is the ACT easier?
No, the two tests are just different. The ACT is more content-based than the SAT. Some students do better on one than the other, and some end up with the same scores. We’ve heard of many students who do not prepare for the ACT, thinking it will be easier and are disappointed with their results.
How do the Eastern colleges regard the ACT?
After the “New” SAT was released in 2005, East Coast colleges seem to have become much more accepting of the ACT. For most colleges the two tests are interchangeable. Check with the colleges for details.
|
