Test Prep Guide
Standardized Tests: the ACT and SAT
Colleges do not have a preference of one or the other
Both tests cover the same curriculum- they just test it differently
Both tests can be superscored- colleges consider your highest section scores across all the dates you took the test
Both Tests are Administered 7 Times a year; In 2022-2023 school year the test dates are:
ACT: September 10, October 22, December 10, February 11, April 15, June 10, July 15
SAT: August 27, October 1, November 5, December 3, March 11, May 6, June 3
Bolded dates represent opportunities to order the Test Information Release (ACT) or Question and Answer Service (SAT) when registering for test.
ACT
4 sections:
English
Math
Reading
Science
2 hours and 55 minutes
1-36 point grading scale
Each section is given a score and the average of all of them is your composite score
Faster-paced exam
Calculator permitted on entire math section
Students with strong time management on tests should consider the ACT
More straightforward and less complex material as a whole
Math formulas not provided
More Geometry
All multiple choice
Science section that tests your critical thinking skills not your science knowledge
SAT
2 sections:
Evidence-based Reading and Writing (one sub-section for each)
Math (one sub-section with calculator and one with no calculator)
3 hours
400-1600 point scale
Each section is scored out of 800 and the sum is your score
More time allotted
Calculator and non-calculator math section
Students who usually require more time on tests should think about the SAT
Harder math and reading comprehension
Some math formulas provided
Few Geometry questions
Multiple choice and grid in math questions
SOMETHING TO CONSIDER: The SAT reading has difficult passages. The SAT might “feel” easier because they give you more time. But the SAT questions can be considered harder and less straightforward on the math. You get faster with the ACT, but the speed certainly takes students by surprise at first.
What Test Should I take?
We recommend taking both and comparing scores:
Conversion between ACT and SAT scores can be found on the ACT website: ACT-SAT Concordance Information
Our mock tests provide an accurate representation of the test, and we recommend taking both with us and comparing. Mock tests are free of charge.
In general if you are a:
Faster test taker, try the ACT
Stronger math student or slower test taker, try the SAT
If scores are similar, focus on the one you like!
Students have preferences for one test over the other.
Whether it be enjoying the ACT science section or the types of questions on the SAT reading, focus on the test that you enjoyed more.
If you are unsure about which test to begin prepping for, we recommend starting with the ACT:
The adjustment from ACT to SAT is easier if change is necessary.
The ACT is more straight-forward and less complex than the SAT.
The SAT will tend to have harder math and reading comprehension passages.
Because both tests have overlapping material, prepping for the ACT is also prepping for the SAT
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—Bringing your own Calculator, you cannot share
—Being familiar with using your calculator
—Making sure it works properly and is charged/ has new batteries
—Bringing a backup calculator/extra batteries
—Making sure your calculator is not Prohibited
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ACT: Only the mathematics section, not on science
SAT: You can only use your calculator on the portion of the test labeled Math Test – Calculator.
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Calculators permitted during testing include:
—Most graphing calculators (We suggest TI-84)
—All scientific calculators
—All four-function calculators (not recommended)
Make sure to check this page before buying or deciding to use a certain calculator
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Examinees may use any 4-function, scientific, or graphing calculator (we recommend TI-84), as long as it is not on the prohibited list
You should definitely visit this page before buying or deciding to use a calculator
Recommended Test Prep Timeline
Remember:
The earlier is better.
However, most students will not reach their full potential until end of junior year.
Although it may help to start prepping at the end of your sophomore year, you will still need to work for your highest score during your junior year.
Do not be discouraged if your first couple times don’t go as well as you want, it will help you prepare by learning.
Everyone is different, this guide is just a general timeline.
August, Junior Year:
There is no rush to start if you are a rising junior, but it does not hurt.
Start taking mock tests to establish a baseline and identify the sections that need the most improvement.
Determine whether you will take the ACT, SAT, or both if you do not already know.
Junior Year:
Start looking at different schools and their middle 50% ACT/SAT scores to identify a target score.
Determine whether the schools you are looking at superscore, require all scores, and any other stipulations when it comes to testing.
E.g. If your school only looks at your English and Math scores, you need to focus on those sections.
Identify sections you need to work on.
Sign up for ACT/SAT the first semester of your junior year.
Attend Group ACT/SAT sessions at PCA
Take the ACT/SAT and wait to receive your scores.
After receiving your scores, look at the areas that you improved upon and see if there are any areas that you still want to work on.
If you still need to improve, sign up for an ACT/SAT in the second semester of your junior year and attend sessions once again.
If these scores are still not up to what you would like, attend Boot Camp right before June ACT.
Senior Year:
Start right away!!
Whether that be June, July, August or earlier , But no later than August.
Sign up for earliest ACT/SAT possible.
If you have not taken the test previously, take mock exam immediately.
Then identify the sections that need the most improvement.
Attend PCA for at least a month before the exam.
Take the ACT/SAT and wait to receive your scores.
If you still need to improve, sign up for the next ACT/SAT and attend sessions once again.