One of the biggest questions parents have about test prep is what test their student should take and when to begin to prepare for it.
To optimize scores, students should prepare for and take either the ACT or SAT, not both. Every college in America now accepts both tests.
Most students take the ACT or SAT in the spring of their junior year, and, if necessary, in the fall of their senior year.
Here are a few important differences between the ACT and SAT:
ACT vs. SAT
ACT
Speed Test
More questions, less time per question
Straightforward questions, similar to school testing
Four Sections: math, reading, writing and science
Math: all calculator
Optional essay offered
Total time (without essay): 2 hours and 55 min
Total available points: 36
SAT
Power Test
Fewer, wordier questions
Requires more critical thinking and analysis
Two sections: reading/writing and math
Math: part calculator and part no calculator
No essay offered
Total time: 3 hours
Total available points: 1600
ACT Schedule
| ACT Test Date | Ideal Time to Start Prep |
|---|---|
| June 12, 2021 | February/March 2021 |
| September 11, 2021 | June 2021 |
| October 23, 2021 | July 2021 |
| Dec 11, 2021 | September 2021 |
| Feb 12, 2022 | November 2021 |
| April 2, 2022 | January 2022 |
| June 11, 2022 | March 2022 |
| July 16, 2022 | April 2022 |
Register for the ACT here.
SAT Schedule
| SAT Test Date | Ideal Time to Start Prep |
|---|---|
| June 5, 2021 | February/March 2021 |
| August 28, 2021 | June 2021 |
| October 2, 2021 | July 2021 |
| November 6, 2021 | August 2021 |
| December 4, 2021 | September 2021 |
| March 12, 2022 | December 2021 |
| May 7, 2022 | February 2022 |
| June 4, 2022 | March 2022 |
Register for the SAT here.