SAT / ACT

SAT

The SAT is a globally recognized college admission test that lets you show colleges what you know and how well you can apply that knowledge. It tests your knowledge of reading, writing and math - subjects that are taught every day in high school classrooms. Most students take the SAT during their junior or senior year of high school, and almost all colleges and universities use the SAT to make admission decisions.

The SAT tests the reading, writing and math skills that you learn in school and that are critical for success in college and beyond. It gives both you and colleges a sense of how you’ll be able to apply the thinking, writing and study skills required for college course work. The questions are rigorously researched and tested to make sure students from all backgrounds have an equal chance to do well. The test is straightforward. There are no tricks designed to trip you up. Students who do well in the classroom are often the same ones who will do well on the SAT. The SAT also provides the opportunity for you to connect to scholarship opportunities, place out of certain college courses and learn more about your academic strengths. 

ACT

The ACT is a national college admissions examination that consists of subject area tests in English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science. The ACT with writing includes the 4 subject area tests plus a 40-minute writing test. ACT results are accepted by all 4-year colleges and universities in the U.S.

The ACT includes 215 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes to complete, including a short break (or just over 4 hours if you are taking the ACT with writing). Actual testing time is 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 40 minutes if you are taking the ACT with writing).

ACT Preparedness

The ACT tests are prepared according to the:

• Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing, American Educational Research Association, American Psychological Association, and National Council on Measurement in Education (1999).
• Code of Professional Responsibilities in Educational Measurement, National Council on Measurement in Education (1995).
• Code of Fair Testing Practices in Education, Joint Committee on Testing Practices (2004).

Resource

A Parent's Guide: Getting Your Teen Ready for the SAT

Guia Para Padres: Preparar a su adolescente para el SAT