Which college applicants submitted ACT or SAT scores?

Reporting was “far higher … among applicants living in more affluent communities, as defined by local median household income in applicants’ local ZIP codes.”

Which test should my son or daughter take: ACT or SAT?

This is (by far) the most frequently asked question, even though it has a relatively simple answer: have your daughter or son take practice tests and then we can help you make the decision. Ideally, students should take both practice tests within a 2-3 week period. If your student is a junior, you might be able to compare an ACT practice test score to his or her PSAT score. At Lafayette Academy, practice tests are ALWAYS FREE.

When should my daughter or son take the actual ACT or SAT?

Most students take their first ACT or SAT during the spring of their junior years. Advanced juniors can take a fall test (the beginning of their junior year). In all cases, you should consider extracurricular activities and how your student is scoring on practice tests when choosing a test date.

How many times can a student take a test?

Many students take the ACT or SAT test twice; some take each test once and then take one of the tests a second time. You should NOT take any of the tests more than three times.

What are the major differences between the ACT and SAT?

The math on the ACT covers more topics, ranging from Algebra 1 to Pre-Calc. The math on the SAT tests fewer topics, stopping at Algebra 2, but more in depth. The ACT has a science section while the SAT includes a few reading passages that focus on science topics. Time management is a big challenge on the ACT, especially in reading and science. The content on the SAT reading section is more challenging, even though you have more time. Again, taking practice tests is the best way to pick a test.

“What about the PSAT?” (for some reason, people often phrase PSAT questions like this example)

The PSAT is a good opportunity to get your son or daughter to take a practice test because most students take the PSAT. If you happen to have a genius living under your roof, the PSAT could be hugely beneficial because of the National Merit program. For most students, PSAT scores don’t matter so you should not spend money preparing your son or daughter for this test.

How can I be a great test prep parent?

In the interest of full disclosure, this is not a FAQ. If it were a FAQ, this would be my answer: challenge your children to embrace the preparation challenge on their own by promising to leave them alone (after you enroll them in one of our programs). We all mean well, but we fail to realize how much added stress we place on our children by micro-managing their test prep experience.

Does my son or daughter really need to take either test?

This has become a frequently asked frequently asked question because the University of California schools will no longer consider ACT or SAT scores in their evaluations, and other schools have followed their lead. There are many schools that still require or consider ACT or SAT scores in their evaluations or for scholarship purposes. Unless you are certain that your son or daughter will only apply to schools that won’t consider ACT or SAT scores, your child should still take one of these tests. Give us a call if you want to hear our more detailed thoughts.

Who should take the SAT test or the ACT test? Best (#1) Prep

The ACT or SAT is not required to get admitted to a great college, including the University of California schools. Nonetheless, doing well on either test will enhance a student’s profile at many schools.

Most higher achieving students should take the SAT test, ACT test, or both. A high score can translate into a variety of opportunities, and many schools will consider your scores in their evaluation. Lower-achieving, but high-potential students should take ACT or SAT practice tests and then decide on the appropriate course of action. Lafayette Academy offers free practice tests.

Don’t just take our advice, here’s what some outside experts are saying: Current Test Prep Advice from Outside Experts

Top 5 Reasons to take the SAT test or ACT test:

Colleges would like to see test scores, including many schools that do not require them: the admit rate with scores is much higher than the rate without scores.
High test scores lead to merit-based scholarship opportunities.
High test scores help you skip general education classes at some colleges.
High test scores look good on your resume (and help you get a part-time job at Lafayette Academy).
Summer ACT or SAT Prep helps you sharpen your skills and mind over the summer.

You are not required to submit your ACT or SAT scores to most schools. Taking either test is a no-lose proposition.

When should college-bound students take the SAT test or ACT?

Your junior year and/or the first semester of your senior year are the usual times for the ACT and SAT tests.
Students in the Class of 2025 should take the SAT test in Fall 2023 (before the tests go digital). Click on the previous link for more insights.

Helpful Links for College-Bound Students

List of test-optional schools.

College Board – SAT, AP, College Search and Admission Tools

ACT | College and Career Readiness Solutions

Should You Take the SAT Test or ACT Test and When?

When should college-bound students take the SAT test or ACT?

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