ACT, SAT and PSAT Testing

What are the SAT and ACT?

The SAT and ACT are entrance exams used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. The SAT and ACT exams are a multiple choice, pencil-and-paper test created and administered by the College Board and ACT, Inc. The purpose of the SAT and ACT are to measure a high school student's readiness for college, and provide colleges with one common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. College admission officers will review standardized test scores alongside your high school GPA, the classes you took in high school, letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors, extracurricular activities, admission interviews, and personal essays. How important SAT or ACT scores are in the college application process varies from school to school.

What is the difference between the SAT and ACT?

There are several differences between the SAT and the ACT. One of the key differences between the two exams are their structure. The SAT features the following sections: reading, writing and language, and math, while the ACT features English, math, reading, science reasoning, an optional essay.

How much do they cost?

• SAT:  $60

• ACT:  $85 (with essays), $60 (without essays)

• Exams are subject to additional charges such as late registration fees.