What’s the difference between the ACT and SAT, and how do I know which one is right for my child?

The ACT and SAT are both widely accepted by colleges, but they test slightly different skills, and your child might naturally perform better on one over the other. The ACT includes a Science section, has faster-paced questions, and tends to reward students who are strong in time management and data interpretation.

The SAT, on the other hand, is more reading-intensive and slightly slower-paced. For D.C. students balancing a heavy academic load, extracurriculars, and possibly IB or AP coursework, it’s important to choose the test that plays to their strengths.

At Cardinal Education, we offer diagnostic exams for both the SAT and ACT to help students figure out which format feels more intuitive. Once that decision is made, we build a targeted strategy to improve scores where it matters most. Choosing the right test can make the difference between a decent score and a game-changing one.