The process of applying to college in the United States can be complex, and standardized tests play a significant role in admissions decisions. Among these tests, the SAT and ACT are the two most commonly accepted by colleges and universities across the country. While once seen as regional competitors, most U.S. colleges and universities now accept both tests, providing students with the flexibility to choose which one best suits their strengths and test-taking style. This article explores the key reasons behind this policy, the similarities and differences between the two tests, and how students can decide which one to take.
Why Colleges Accept Both the SAT and ACT
1. Equity and Accessibility
Accepting both the SAT and ACT allows colleges to increase access to higher education for a broader and more diverse pool of applicants. Since some students perform better on one test than the other, giving applicants a choice helps level the playing field. Furthermore, not all high schools offer equal access to test preparation resources for both exams. Accepting both tests allows students from different geographic regions and socioeconomic backgrounds to submit scores from the test that best aligns with their strengths.
2. Geographic Differences
Historically, the SAT was more popular on the East and West Coasts, while the ACT was dominant in the Midwest and South. Over time, this regional divide has lessened as students nationwide now have the option to take either test. To avoid limiting their applicant pool, colleges decided to accept both tests, recognizing that regional preferences no longer align as strongly as they once did.
3. Institutional Competitiveness
To remain competitive in attracting a diverse range of applicants, colleges and universities aim to make the admissions process as inclusive and accessible as possible. Accepting both the SAT and ACT widens the range of qualified applicants, which is particularly important for institutions that strive to increase enrollment, boost diversity, and enhance their national rankings.
How to Decide Which Test to Take
Since most U.S. colleges and universities accept either test, students should focus on choosing the one that best matches their strengths and testing style. Here are some strategies to help students decide:
- Take Practice Tests for Both: Many students find that they naturally perform better on one test than the other. Taking free practice tests for both the SAT and ACT can help identify which test feels more intuitive.
- Consider Test Content: Students strong in science may prefer the ACT, which has a dedicated science section. Students who excel at reading and writing may find the SAT’s Reading and Writing sections more suited to their skills.
- Look at Timing and Pacing: The ACT has more questions but allows less time per question, which can be challenging for students who need more time to process information. The SAT’s questions are fewer but often more complex.
- Check College Requirements: While most colleges accept both tests, a small number of specialized programs may have preferences. Students should review admissions guidelines for their target schools to ensure they meet specific requirements.
- Test-Optional Policies: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning students are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. While this policy reduces the emphasis on test scores, students should still consider taking one of the exams if they believe it will enhance their application.
References
- College Board. “About the SAT Test.” https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat
- ACT, Inc. “What is the ACT?” https://www.act.org
National Center for Fair & Open Testing (FairTest). “Test-Optional Admissions Movement.” https://www.fairtest.org