What are the SAT and the ACT?

The SAT is a standardized test and college entrance exam that measures a student's skills in three core areas: Evidence-Based Reading, and Writing, and Math. There is also an optional 50 minute essay. Scores range from 400-1600.

The ACT is a standardized test and college entrance exam that measures a student's skills in four core areas: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Scores range from 1-36.

Even though most schools continue to be test optional this year, a good test score can only help you out. (Check here to see if the school you are applying to does not require a test score!)

We still recommend taking each test at least once, but ideally twice. Talk to Ms. Savage if you have questions!

How do I pay for them?

Other than the ACT and SAT that are typically taken in school junior year, there is a fee to take both the ACT and the SAT. However, you are eligible for up to four ACT fee waivers and two SAT fee waivers if you are on Free or Reduced Lunch, or meet other criteria. Chat with your counselor if you need a fee waiver!

How do I prepare for them?

I highly recommend preparing for these tests. There is a lot of free test preparation out there! By preparing for the tests, you'll be giving yourself a big advantage (and saving yourself from potentially having to take them again!).

For the SAT, I would recommend using Khan Academy, linked here. You can link your College Board account to Khan Academy and use your Score Report to only study what you need to. It makes studying way easier because you aren't going through things you already know!

For the ACT, go to the ACT website here. If you qualify for free or reduced lunch and get an ACT waiver from one of your counselors, you get free access to the ACT online test prep. More info about what a fee waiver gets you can be found on this PDF.

You really do not have to spend any money preparing for either test you choose to take, so take advantage of your resources and come ask me any questions you may have!