As high school students embark on their college admissions journey, one of the critical decisions they face is whether to take the ACT or SAT. Both standardized tests play a significant role in the admissions process but choosing the right one can make a difference in your scores and ultimately your college options. To help you make an informed decision, here are 10 important questions to consider before choosing between the ACT and SAT.

1. What Do Colleges Prefer?

Some colleges may have a preference for either the ACT or SAT, while others accept scores from both exams. Research the admission requirements of your target colleges to determine which test(s) they accept.

2. What Are Your Strengths?

Consider your strengths and weaknesses in different subject areas. The ACT and SAT test different skills, so choose the test that aligns with your strengths. For example, if you excel in math and science, the ACT might be a better fit, while strong verbal skills may make the SAT a more suitable choice.

3. How Do You Perform Under Time Pressure?

Both the ACT and SAT have strict time limits for each section. Reflect on your ability to perform well under time pressure. If you thrive in timed environments and can efficiently manage your time, this may influence your decision. The SAT allows 67% more time per question than the ACT.

4. Are You Comfortable with Guessing?

The SAT imposes a penalty for incorrect answers, while the ACT does not. Consider whether you’re comfortable guessing on questions you’re unsure about or if you prefer to leave them blank. Your approach to guessing can impact your strategy on test day.

5. Do You Prefer Subject-Based or Integrated Testing?

The ACT tests subjects separately (English, Math, Reading, Science), while the SAT integrates reading and writing skills into one section. Determine whether you prefer subject-based testing or an integrated approach to assess your knowledge and skills.

6. Have You Taken Practice Tests for Both Exams?

If not, take full-length practice tests for both the ACT and SAT to familiarize yourself with the format, content, and pacing of each exam. Analyze your performance on each test to determine which one better reflects your academic aptitude. Bonus: when you do this, you will also identify which areas need improvement

7. Does Your Preferred College Accept Superscores?

For those who take the ACT or SAT multiple times, some colleges allow testing agencies to send the best sections of each exam as a single new “superscore.” These colleges, however, may have different policies regarding which tests must be sent along with that superscore. This is important, since there may be sections of each exam that you would rather not be seen by colleges. The ACT and SAT have different policies for creating and sharing superscores with colleges and should be thoroughly researched and analyzed to determine the best choice in this regard.

8. What time and resources do you have to dedicate to preparation?

Consider the amount of time you have available to prepare for the exam. The ACT and SAT require different preparation strategies, so choose the test that fits your schedule and allows you to adequately prepare while balancing other commitments. Also, consider the availability of test preparation resources such as study guides, practice tests, and prep courses, for both the ACT and SAT. Is one more expensive, time-consuming, or readily available than the other in your area? Decide which resources and preparation strategies align with your learning style, preferences, and budget and plan accordingly.

9. How do you prefer your multiple-choice questions?

Each test has a different question style in the multiple-choice sections. The ACT tends to have more straightforward questions, while the SAT often presents more complex and nuanced problems. Determine whether you prefer straightforward questions or rather thrive on analytical thinking and problem-solving. Choose your test accordingly.

10. How often is each test offered in your region?

Although technically you can retake the ACT 12 times and the SAT an unlimited amount, you should probably check to see how often the tests are offered in your area. Some regions, especially in the southern states, offer the ACT almost monthly, but the SAT only twice per year and vice versa. Choosing between the ACT and SAT is a significant decision that can impact your college admissions journey. By considering these 10 failsafe questions, you can make a well-informed choice that aligns with your strengths, preferences, and academic goals. Remember that both tests aim to assess your readiness for college-level academics, so focus on selecting the test format that allows you to perform to the best of your abilities. With careful consideration and preparation, you can approach standardized testing with confidence and clarity.