SAT & ACT
The SAT and ACT are college entrance exams that some colleges use as part of the application process. They are designed to measure skills you’ve been learning in high school, like reading, writing, and math.
Although some colleges do not consider SAT/ACT scores for admissions anymore, the scores might be considered for English/Math placement indicators. Moreover, students who take the SAT can use the college application fee waiver for UC applications.
SAT/ACT scores may also be used for some scholarships (that require test scores as a factor in selection). Ask your school counselor for an ACT or SAT fee waiver to take the tests for free!
SAT
Score
SAT scores range from 400–1600. Students meeting or exceeding this benchmark are considered on track to be college ready.
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200–800 for the Reading and Writing (RW) section and
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200–800 for the Math (M) section
Test Preparation Resources
SAT Practice on Khan Academy® is free, comprehensive, and available to all students. College Board also provides free test prep, a checklist of what to bring on test day, and everything you need to prepare.
Sections
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Math: No formulas given, Calculator for ALL sections, No Grid-in Answers. Geometry, Arithmetic, Algebra, and Trigonometry.
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Reading: 8% Vocabulary
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English/Writing: 3% Vocabulary
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Science: Interpretation of Data, Graphs & Charts
Pre-SAT
The PSAT test prepares you for the SAT, so take it seriously because you'll be sending your real scores to universities.
ACT
Score
ACT scores range from 18–34. In general, ACT score ranges are typically viewed as follows:
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18–20: Accepted at many colleges, especially regional and open-admission institutions
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20–23: Competitive at many mid-tier colleges
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24–28: Strong score for more selective colleges and universities
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30 and above: Highly competitive for top-tier and highly selective institutions
Sections
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Math:
Lots of Formulas given, Calculator for ONE
section, Grid-In Answers. Some Geometry and Arithmetic, Advanced Algebra, some
Trigonometry and Interpretation of data. -
Reading/Writing:
17% Vocabulary (Reading Questions), 7%
Vocabulary (Writing Questions). Questions
based on Graphs & Charts
Test Preparation Resources
Practice with daily questions, sample quizzes, and full-length tests in all subjects. Get explanations, tips, and strategies to boost your skills and feel confident on test day.
Pre-ACT
Students who take PreACT assessments get valuable early experience with the format of the ACT® test, reducing test day anxiety, as well as a better understanding of their skills, interests, plans, and goals — with plenty of time for adjustment before graduating.