Tips on the SATs and ACTs

SATs

• Every SAT will have an experimental section that is used to try out new problems.  It can show up anywhere on the test as a math, writing, or reading section. 
   
• Generally speaking, the SAT tests arithmetic, algebra, and geometry.  There are no trigonometry or calculus problems.   
   
• You may take the SAT more than once, but you cannot specify which scores you want sent to the colleges you are applying to.  Instead, colleges will see all of your SAT scores, bust most colleges will use the highest Critical Reading score, the highest Math score, and the highest Writing score.
   
• Approximately 50 colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT Subject Tests (SAT IIs). 

 ACTs

• The SAT and ACT are significantly different tests, and in many ways they measure different skills.  Depending on your strengths and weaknesses, you may perform better on one test than the other.
   
• The ACT includes a Science section; the SAT does not.   
   
• There is no guessing penalty on the ACTs; that is, you should answer every single question on the ACT (which is not necessarily the case on the SATs).