Is the ACT a better choice than the SAT for Swiss students?

It depends on your child’s strengths, but for many Swiss students, the ACT can be a better fit. The ACT covers English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. Students who excel in science reasoning, work well under time pressure, and prefer a faster-paced test often gravitate toward the ACT. For those used to the structure of the Matura, IB, or bilingual Swiss programs, the ACT’s direct questions and predictable format may feel more intuitive than the SAT’s sometimes abstract approach. That said, both tests are accepted by every major U.S. college, so it’s not about prestige—it’s about compatibility.

At Cardinal Education, we offer diagnostic practice tests for both exams. This lets students experience the structure, pacing, and question types firsthand before committing. Our goal is to help Swiss students select the test that plays to their strengths and gives them the clearest advantage in the competitive world of U.S. admissions.