College Test Prep

Timing 

The ACT is more time-bound having more questions in a similar timeframe as the SAT

Math

The ACT covers more math topics with a larger focus on Geometry and Trigonometry.  SAT, however, focuses more in-depth on Algebra.

Science

Although the SAT incorporates science questions throughout the exam, it does not have an independent science section. ACT has a whole section dedicated to science only.

English

There is not much difference in this section as both the ACT and SAT have this section that assesses grammar skills.

Reading

SAT Reading has evidence-support reading questions that test reasoning ability and is considered to have a higher language level and more difficult reading passages than ACT. 

Writing

Only the ACT offers an optional ACT essay writing portion.

Taking both the SAT practice test and ACT practice test will help you decide which exam is best suited for you. If you are taking the ACT and you are a strong writer, it is advisable to complete the optional essay because it can demonstrate your competency in writing. It will also display another dimension of your college worthiness and may differentiate you from the other applicants.

Both tests offer accommodations for students with learning differences through extended time to take the test, testing over multiple days, typing instead of hand-writing the optional essay, an assistant to read questions out loud, or a specific seating arrangement. 

To decide which test to take, we recommend taking both diagnostic tests with us and speaking with a managing consultant for recommendations. Children with learning disabilities can also be successful with the SAT and ACT diagnostic tests. 

While most colleges are adhering to the test-optional policy, submitting SAT and ACT test scores may still give you merit and admissions advantage. Your chances of qualifying for admission will depend on how well you distinguish yourself from other applicants. So unless you have an otherwise perfect application (stellar GPA and outstanding extracurricular activities), a good standardized test score will, in most cases, be a net positive for your college application.

Both tests are equally accepted by colleges for admission and there is no preference for one over the other. Since both tests basically assess the same skill sets and aptitudes, your test scores will have a lot to say about your skills. So make sure that you take the test which will maximize your chances for college admission.

Different schools have different admissions policies and there is no general way of tracking how and what scores they set as a bar for their requirements. However, you have two options on which scores to submit:

1. Score Choice Option – If you feel like you can do better, you can retake the test and choose the best score to submit.
2. Superscoring – After taking the test multiple times, you can choose your best scores from each section and combine them to come up with an aggregate top score. The ACT super score is beneficial because it takes the average of the four best subject scores from each ACT test attempt and counts it as your official score. Colleges that use the SAT superscore use the best section-level scores, even if they were from different tests.

Please check the admissions website of the school you are applying for to see which of the two options are applicable.

Yes, however, we do not recommend our students to take these tests more than three times. Start preparing early and do plenty of practice tests. Cardinal Education offers complimentary diagnostic test consultations to pinpoint areas of weakness and provide a comprehensive individualized plan for approaching the ACT and SAT. We advise that you take the tests only when you are ready and confident that you will do well.

The duration of preparing for the ACT and SAT varies from 3 months or longer than a year depending on the students’ needs, where they are coming from, and what they hope to achieve with their scores. For students who need more focus and attention, taking test prep classes in a group setting might not be the best option because it will be difficult for the students to receive on-the-spot feedback and individualized attention.

Time is critical when preparing for these tests and it is better to start preparing early. It is important to find out the student’s key strengths and weaknesses to identify the areas that require attention. Seeking the services of a professional is also important in order to receive expert advice and undergo a program that is fit for the student’s needs.

Cardinal Education offers a rigorous college test prep program that helps students achieve impressive test scores. Our program emphasizes the importance of a confident test-taking mindset while guiding students through a very difficult and challenging process. We cultivate confidence through our specialized strategy, frequent practice tests, and positive reinforcement. We also offer individualized SAT Tutoring and ACT Tutoring. 

Our dedication to making a difference for our students is unparalleled, and we help students build confidence and earn superior outcomes while making the whole process fun and enjoyable!