ACT/SAT
If your plan is to attend a 4-year university right after graduation, some of you may be required to take either the SAT or ACT test. Some colleges use these tests when making admission decisions and in awarding merit-based scholarships, however, due to the pandemic, many colleges have been becoming test-optional (meaning they don't REQUIRE a test score). In order to determine which test is the best fit for you, you should take a practice test of each and prep for the one you score better on. If your scores are even, prep for the one you felt most comfortable taking. It is best to take a full length practice test, if possible, so you get a feel for the timing and length of the actual tests.
It is recommended that students take the SAT or ACT during the spring of their junior year.
NOTE: Testing fee waivers available in the counseling office for those who qualify.
223.24 SAT-ACT test dates.pdfThe major differences between the SAT and ACT tests are:
SAT gives more time per question
ACT has a science section, SAT does not
SAT has a math section that does NOT use a calculator
ACT has a lot of geometry questions, where the SAT has much fewer
SAT has a bit of pre-Calculus, ACT does not
SAT/ACT Prep
College Board - The official site offers study guides, study plans, practice tests, information on what you’ll be tested on, and a breakdown of the SAT. Additionally, the SAT site provides a bunch of tips, tricks, strategies, and suggestions on how to study for, and take the entrance exam.
Khan Academy - 4 official full-length practice tests, plus study and test-taking tips, thousands of practice questions, video lessons, and hints, 8 diagnostic quizzes to pinpoint your areas for practice. There is also an app for your phone.
ACT Student - ACT Online Prep - The only program designed exclusively by ACT test development professionals.
Free Virtual SAT/ACT Practice Tests Every Week - Provided by StudyPoint
ACT COVID-19 Resources - ACT is offering digital learning and workforce resources to assist students, teachers, schools and workers impacted by COVID-19.
Exam Focus - EXAM Focus is FREE and offers practice timed test for the SAT/ACT/PSAT & ASVAB tests.
Prep Factory - Prep Factory is a FREE SAT & ACT Prep site for students.
Kaplan Test Prep - A free online SAT or ACT practice test with a score review. By registering for one of the online test dates, students can gain a valuable look into what their chosen test will feel like.
Study Apps for your Phone/Tablet
Official SAT Question of the Day - Make practice part of your routine — any place, any time. Answer a question a day on the Daily Practice for the New SAT app and get immediate feedback. (Available on iTunes or Google Play)
Magoosh ACT Flashcards & ACT Test Prep – Free flashcards and video lessons
ACT Up & SAT Up - Featuring personalized daily workouts, midterm and full length practice tests, vocabulary games, on-demand tutoring and continuous coach support.
All Apps available on iTunes and Google Play
We have SAT & ACT Prep books available for check-out in the College & Career Center.