The ACT test is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test administered by ACT, Inc., a non-profit organization.
The purpose of the ACT test is to measure a student's readiness for university life in the US, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants.
There are four ACT sections:
The ACT also includes an optional 40-minute Writing Test. Some colleges may require that you complete the ACT Writing Test.
You can confirm each college's admissions policies on the school website or on our school profiles.
Most school students take the ACT during the spring of their junior year or fall of their senior year (so for international students from the UK, this is the spring before the year you want to start studying).
It's important to leave time to retake the test if you need to increase your score before you apply to college.
The ACT test is offered nationally in the U.S every year in September, October, December, February, April, June, and July.
Take a look at upcoming ACT dates.
The SAT is a multiple-choice, pencil-and-paper test created and administered by the College Board.
The purpose of this test is to measure a school student's readiness for college, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants.
There are two SAT sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.
The SAT also includes an optional essay section, and SAT essay scores are reported separately from overall test scores.
Some colleges may ask that you complete the SAT Essay. You can confirm each college's admissions policies on the school website or call them directly.
Most school students take the SAT during the spring of their junior year or autumn of their senior year (so for international students, the spring of the year before they wish to start studying).
Remember to leave plenty of time to retake the test if you need to increase your score before you apply to college.
The SAT test is offered nationally every year in August, October, November, December, March, May, and June.
Take a look at upcoming SAT dates.
One of the main differences between the SAT and the ACT is that the ACT includes a science section and the SAT does not.
The SAT does test scientific skills through some of the other sections, but does not have a dedicated science portion like the ACT does.
The SAT is generally slightly harder on a per question basis than the ACT. However you are given a little more time per question on the SAT.
The ACT tends to be a little easier on a per question basis but you have less time. The ACT may be a better choice if you are stronger in reading and writing, rather than science.
