Deciding whether your child should take the ACT or SAT can feel overwhelming. Both are widely accepted by colleges, but the exams differ in format, pacing, and style. The right choice often depends on the way your child learns, how comfortable they are with technology, and where their academic strengths lie. While practice tests remain the best way to determine which exam is the better fit, understanding the differences is a good place to start. In general, the ACT is considered a more knowledge-based, straightforward exam. Its questions are direct, and the structure does not change based on student performance. This can appeal to students who prefer predictability and who thrive under consistent conditions. The SAT, on the other hand, leans into adaptivity and abstraction, rewarding students who are strong problem-solvers and can think critically in less predictable situations. The format and scoring systems are the first major distinctions. The ACT can still be taken on paper or digitally. It is linear—every student answers the same set of questions—and it is scored on a 36-point scale. The composite ACT score is the average of English, Math, and Reading, while the optional Science section is reported separately. On the other hand, SAT is now fully digital and adaptive and no longer offered on paper. This means that each section is split into two modules, and the difficulty level of the second module depends on how the student performs in the first. The SAT is scored on a scale of 1600, with up to 800 points each in Reading & Writing and Math. The English and reading sections also highlight some of the philosophical differences between the two exams. The ACT combines a traditional English test with a Reading test. The English portion consists of 50 questions based on passages where students must correct grammar, punctuation, or word choice, and identify rhetorical effectiveness. The Reading section includes four passages, each followed by a set of questions, most of which can be answered directly from the text. In contrast, the SAT integrates Reading and Writing into two large modules with 54 questions each. Each question is tied to a short passage, ranging from vocabulary-in-context questions to those requiring logical reasoning or interpretation of data from a graph or chart. Students are asked to demonstrate not just grammar knowledge, but also higher-level problem-solving and critical thinking. When it comes to math, the two tests diverge even further. The ACT math section is a single, non-adaptive test with 45 multiple-choice questions, each offering four answer choices. The content ranges across algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and pre-calculus, with about 15–20% of the problems appearing as word problems. Calculators are permitted throughout, and success often depends on a solid foundation in procedural skills and the ability to work quickly. The SAT math portion, however, is broken into two adaptive modules of 22 questions each, for a total of 44. Roughly one-quarter of these require students to produce their own responses rather than choose from multiple-choice options. While students only need a background up through Algebra II, the SAT often asks more abstract questions, requiring deeper conceptual understanding rather than straightforward application. The timing of the tests further influences the student experience. The ACT allows between 42 and 67 seconds per question, depending on the section, which makes it a faster-paced exam. Students who are strong readers and can process information quickly often find this structure more manageable. The SAT, by comparison, allows more time per question—about 71 seconds for Reading and Writing and 95 seconds for Math. This slower pace can benefit students who prefer to work carefully and think through problems, though the adaptive format means the questions can become more challenging as the test progresses. In the end, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Both the ACT and SAT assess similar core skills in reading, writing, and math, and colleges view them equally. The key is finding the test that best matches your child’s strengths and test-taking style. The most reliable way to do this is to have your child take a practice version of each test under timed conditions. By comparing the results—and noting which experience felt more natural—you can make a confident decision. Colleges will accept either score, so what matters most is ensuring your child has the opportunity to showcase their abilities in the format that suits them best.

The new enhanced version of the ACT is here! While both versions measure similar academic skills, there are key differences in structure, scoring, and requirements. Below, we will explain these differences. English Section On the traditional ACT, the English section consists of 75 questions. The updated version reduces the number of questions to 60. Math Section The math section has also been adjusted. In the older format, students face 60 questions with five answer choices each. In the newer version, there are only 50 math questions, each with four possible answer choices. Reading Section Reading is another area where the two tests differ. The traditional ACT includes 40 questions based on four long passages. The updated format features 35 questions, still spread across four passages, but the passages themselves are shorter. Science Section Perhaps the biggest change is in the science section. On the traditional ACT, this section is required, with 40 questions that count toward your composite score. On the updated version, the science section is optional. It contains 36 questions and is reported separately from your composite score. Colleges will decide whether they require, recommend, or ignore this section for admissions. Total Number of Questions The older ACT includes 215 questions in total (excluding the essay). By contrast, the new ACT has fewer questions overall—135 if you only take the three core sections, and 171 if you include the optional science portion. Composite Score Scoring is also structured differently. In the traditional format, your composite score is the average of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. On the updated test, the composite score is based only on the three core sections—English, Math, and Reading. If you take the science section, that score is reported separately. Scoring Scale Despite these changes, the scoring scale remains consistent across both versions. Each section and the composite score are reported on the familiar 1–36 scale. Test Duration Timing has been adjusted as well. The traditional ACT lasts 2 hours and 55 minutes, with an additional unscored 20-minute fifth section at the end. The updated version is shorter: 2 hours and 5 minutes if you only complete the three core sections, or 2 hours and 40 minutes if you also take the science portion. Instead of having a separate fifth section, unscored items are now embedded within the test itself. Science Requirement All students taking the traditional ACT are required to complete the science section. On the newer version, however, the science portion is optional, giving colleges the flexibility to set their own policies regarding whether applicants should complete it. Test Format The older ACT is available only in paper format and is entirely linear, meaning every student answers the same questions in the same order. The updated version can be taken on paper or digitally, but it is still linear—so unlike some other standardized tests, it does not use adaptive technology. Field-Test Questions In the traditional version, unscored field-test questions were grouped together in a separate fifth section. The new ACT eliminates this extra section by blending unscored questions directly into the main test. Score Comparability Finally, it’s important to note that a score earned on either version of the ACT carries the same weight and meaning. There is no scoring advantage or disadvantage, regardless of which test you take.

As a parent, it's normal to worry about the changes to college admissions tests that your child will face. The SAT transitioned to digital earlier this year, and now the ACT is set to receive an update in 2025. These shifts aim to make testing shorter and more flexible, which could help reduce some of the pressure on students. The ACT and SAT both shared details about their updated tests, and we're here to break it down for you. What Parents Need to Know About the ACT The ACT is designed to give students more choices and a smoother experience. Here's a quick look at the key features: Test Format: Students can take it on paper or digitally, depending on what works best for them. Structure: It's straightforward – every student receives the same questions, ensuring fairness and predictability. Sections: English, Math, Reading, with Science as an optional add-on. Essay/Writing: Optional, and most colleges don't require it anyway. Total Test Time: About 2 hours and 5 minutes for the core sections, or 2 hours and 40 minutes if Science is included – shorter than the old version. Time Per Question (Average): English receives approximately 42 seconds, Math about 67 seconds, Reading 67 seconds, and Science 60 seconds, allowing kids a bit more time to think. Math Topics: Covers basics like pre-algebra, algebra I and II, geometry, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, and simple stats. Calculator Policy: Allowed for the whole Math section. Answer Choices: All multiple choice, with 4 options in Math. Scoring Scale: 1-36 for each section, and the composite score is the average of the three core sections. Test Dates: Seven national dates each year. Prep Carryover: If your child has studied for the old ACT, that work still counts. Key Details on the SAT The SAT has gone fully digital, which means students need to become more comfortable with testing on a screen. There were also a few minor changes to the test in general, so here's what stands out: Test Format: Digital only. Structure: Adaptive – the questions get harder or easier based on how the student does. Sections: Reading and Writing combined into one section, plus Math. Essay: No essay at all. Total Test Time: 2 hours and 14 minutes. Time Per Question (Average): About 71 seconds for Reading and Writing, and 95 seconds for Math. Math Topics: Includes algebra (like linear equations and systems), advanced math (quadratics, polynomials, exponentials), data analysis (ratios, graphs, percentages), and geometry/trig (area, angles, circles, volume). Calculator Policy: Allowed for all of Math. Answer Choices: Mostly multiple choice, but some questions ask for student-produced answers. Scoring Scale: 200-800 per section, with a total out of 1600. Test Dates: National dates, plus some schools offer it during the school day. Prep Carryover: The digital and adaptive setup means you'll likely need new study plans. How the Formats Are Changing Both tests are trying to make things easier on students by cutting down on length and complexity, making it more straightforward for students. For the ACT, Science is now optional, just like the Essay. This changes the core sections to English, Math, and Reading, with fewer questions overall, shorter reading passages, and four choices for Math answers. The SAT combines Reading and Writing, skips the essay, and uses an adaptive system that adjusts to the student's performance, which could play to their strengths or add extra challenge. Timing Updates ACT: Core test is 2 hours and 5 minutes, or 2 hours and 40 minutes with Science. Students get more time per question (42-67 seconds), which might help those who work at a steady pace. SAT: Total of 2 hours and 14 minutes, with 71-95 seconds per question. It's a consistent flow, but digital skills are a must. What Hasn't Changed ACT: Still offers paper or digital, non-adaptive questions, and the 1-36 scoring. SAT: Digital format with the 200-800 per section (1600 total) scoring. Comparing the New ACT and SAT The ACT and SAT are now closer in duration because of the ACT's shorter reading passages and questions. This provides a more predictable pace, easing time pressure for students who may struggle under pressure. In contrast, the SAT's adaptive format adjusts question difficulty based on performance, which can challenge high-achievers but may unsettle those who struggle with unpredictability. The ACT's optional Science section and linear, non-adaptive structure cater to students who excel in consistent settings or need to showcase science skills for specific college programs, such as engineering. On the other hand, the SAT's fixed, essay-free digital format demands comfort with technology and adaptability, making it critical to align your child's strengths and college goals with the test that best suits them. Test Dates to Keep in Mind ACT: Seven national dates yearly for plenty of chances. SAT: National dates plus school-day options in some places. Making Use of Old Prep ACT: Existing study materials and practice still work well. SAT: These changes mean your student will need updated resources for the new digital adaptive format. Advice Based on Your Child's Grade 12th Graders (Class of 2025): These updates probably won't affect you, as testing wraps up before they roll out. 11th Graders (Class of 2026): You can test both versions; stick to your current prep schedule. 10th Graders and Younger (Class of 2027+): There's time to try out both and see which one fits best for college applications. Why Test Scores Matter More Now Grade inflation has amplified since the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to higher GPAs across schools. This makes it harder for colleges to gauge a student’s true academic readiness from transcripts alone. Standardized tests like the ACT and SAT serve as a consistent benchmark, helping admissions teams fairly compare applicants from diverse backgrounds. Over 100 top colleges, including Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, require these scores for the 2025-2026 cycle, emphasizing their importance. Strong preparation for these exams is critical to help your child stand out in a competitive applicant pool. Working with a counselor or tutor can guide your child to excel in this evolving admissions landscape.

7 Common App Essay Prompts

Before leaving school for the summer, students should make sure to request their letters of recommendation as they are a crucial part of their college application. Typically, a student's counselor and two teachers complete these letters, but it is important to check each school's website for specific application requirements. Private colleges usually require at least one counselor and one or two teacher recommendations. Many colleges consider these letters to be of considerable or moderate importance in their admissions decisions. Therefore, students should ask their teachers for letters early, especially if they are having a successful year with a particular teacher. Although the letters of recommendation do not need to be submitted until the fall, teachers will have more time to give the letter more thought and write with more substance. These letters can also help determine who is awarded scholarships and who is admitted into a school's honors program, so it is essential to secure excellent recommendations and maximize their effectiveness. Here are some tips to help students secure excellent letters of recommendation: Build strong relationships with teachers and counselors Choose someone who teachers a core subject Ask for the letter in person Provide necessary information and materials Meet deadlines and follow up with a polite reminder Thank teachers for their help and support. Build strong relationships with teachers and counselors: When choosing who to ask for a letter of recommendation, it's important for students to choose wisely. Ideally, they should request a letter from a junior year teacher who has taught them in a core subject area. The teacher should know the student well enough to write a thoughtful and insightful recommendation that highlights the student's class performance, whether that means improvement, outstanding achievement, or both. The recommendation should reflect the student's talents, abilities, and contributions in the context of the classroom. It's important for students to ask a teacher whose class they actively participate in and get good grades. For online learning, the student should choose a class where they regularly participate in virtual discussions and activities and have their camera turned on during live sessions. Ensure that the person writing the recommendation is someone who has a favorable opinion of the student. Since most of the time students and parents won't have access to the letter, it's important to choose someone the student feels at ease with. Choose someone who teaches a core subject : It is important to choose a teacher who teaches a core subject. Some colleges require that at least one (or all) recommendation letters must be from a core subject teacher, which includes math, English, social science, science, or world language. If additional recommendation letters are allowed, students should think about the subjects or activities they are most involved in. For instance, someone in a research program may include their program director as an additional recommender. Moreover, a yearbook editor coach, or other adult mentor may provide a supplemental recommendation. Ask for the letter in person: Prior to adding a teacher's name as a recommender in the Common Application or Coalition Application, it is important for students to directly ask the teacher if they would be willing to write a recommendation. This demonstrates that the student values the teacher's time and opinion and is committed to the application process. If speaking to the teacher in private is not feasible, the student can send an email to request the recommendation. Only after the teacher has agreed to write the recommendation should the student add the teacher's name to the application. Provide necessary information and materials: After receiving confirmation from the recommender, it is essential for students to provide them with all the necessary information that they can use to write a strong letter and submit it on time. This includes the student's full name, email address, phone number, college deadlines, and specific examples of the student's achievements, improvements, or contributions in that teacher's subject and class. It is recommended that students only provide their resume to their teacher if they are asked to do so, as it may give the teacher a better overall picture of the student. It is important to remember that the recommender will likely write one general letter to be sent to all the schools the student is applying to, so the letter should not be tailored to any specific school. Meet the deadlines and follow up with a polite reminder. It's important for students to keep track of the deadlines for each application type and make sure that their recommenders are aware of the deadlines as well. They should give their recommenders enough time to write a thoughtful letter and submit it before the deadline. It's a good idea for students to follow up with their recommenders a few weeks before the deadline to make sure that they have everything they need and are on track to submit the letter on time. Thank teachers for their help and support: It's important to note that giving a gift card to a teacher or recommender is not necessary or expected. Teachers and recommenders are there to help students and want to see them succeed. A heartfelt thank-you note or a small token of appreciation, such as a handwritten card or a baked treat, can be a thoughtful way to express gratitude. For more information about letters of recommendation, please visit: https://www.homeworkhubtutoring.com/copy-of-college-advisory or c all 631-673-7250 or text 516-423-2543 to learn more.

The short answer is YES. Even before the pandemic, there were more than 1,000 colleges and universities that were “test optional,” meaning that applicants could choose whether or not to submit test scores.

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