Difference Between SATs and ACTs

Okay, so I know we don't really want to worry about this now, especially if you aren't in your Junior or Senior year yet, but it is important to know the difference between the two tests so you know exactly what to prepare for, even if you are barely a Freshman or Sophomore. So let's get you informed on exactly what you are looking forward to.

FACTS & QUESTIONS

1. When is the test administered? The SATs are administered seven times per year while the ACTs are administered six times per year.
2. What is the test structure? The SATs are a ten part exam including: Three critical reading, three math, three writing and one experimental. The experimental section will be disguised as a regular section. The ACTs are a four section exam including: English, Math, Reading and Science Reasoning. Sometimes an experimental section will be added, but only on certain days and it won't be disguised.
3. What is the test content? In the SATs math section, it will cover up to 9th grade basic geometry and Algebra II. In the Reading Section, it will cover sentence completions, short and long critical reading passages, and reading comprehension. In the Writing Section, you will complete an essay, and questions testing grammar, usage, and word choice. There is no science section.  In the ACTs the Math Section will cover up to Trigonometry. In the Science Section, it will cover Charts and Experiments. In the Reading Section, it will cover Four passages, one each of Prose Fiction, Social Science, Humanities and Natural Science. In the English Section, it Stresses Grammar.
4. Is there a penalty for incorrect answers? In the SATs, there is a 1/4 point penalty for incorrect answers. In the ACTs there is no penalty for wrong answers.
5. How is the test scored? In the SATs, it is 200-800 per section, all adding together for a combined score of 2400. In the ACTs, it is 1-36 for each subject, average for a composite score of 36.
6. Are all scores sent to schools? In the SATs, every score will be sent to chosen colleges for every SAT taken. In the ACTs there is a score choice section where you can choose which schools will receive your scores and which scores they will see.
7. Are there any other uses for the exams? The SATs scores will be used for scholarship purposes. Some colleges will use them for placement. The ACTs scores will be used for scholarship purposes, certain statewide testing programs and placement in colleges.
8. Best time to register? The best time to register for either of these tests is 6 weeks prior to the test date.

So that is most of the basic questions asked and now you have them answered hopefully. If you still have more questions, feel free to ask and I will do my best to answer them or you can look them up. Either are fine with me. Have a great day and I'll see you all tomorrow with more educational things that will help you in school.

~Angelina~