SAT Test Prep

Why Take the SAT?

Standardized test results play a significant role in university admissions processes. Additionally, achieving high scores on exams such as the SAT may qualify students for substantial financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

• Standardized Test Scores Required by Most Universities in the USA, UK, and Australia

Although some universities do not require standardized test scores, their number remains limited. The implementation of test-optional policies gained momentum during and after the coronavirus pandemic, primarily due to students’ limited access to testing centers for the SAT or ACT. However, most institutions introduced these policies temporarily, with only a select few adopting them permanently.

Nonetheless, standardized test scores continue to play a significant role in university admissions. The majority of universities seek SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process. Even at test-optional schools, a strong test score can enhance an applicant’s profile and improve their chances of admission. Choosing not to take the SAT may restrict your options and lessen the competitiveness of your application.

Sitting for the SAT or ACT allows applicants to retain a broader range of college opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable.

• Scholarships Are Available for High Achievers

Universities frequently provide merit-based financial aid to outstanding applicants, with test scores serving as a significant criterion in determining which students receive scholarships. Even at institutions where standardized tests are optional for admission, SAT or ACT scores may still be required for consideration of financial aid. Given that financial aid packages can amount to tens of thousands of dollars, it is advisable to take the SAT to remain eligible for such awards, regardless of whether the exam is mandatory for admission.

• State or High School Requirements

In some cases, you may need to take the SAT if it is required by your high school or if you reside in one of the states that requires the SAT, regardless of college application requirements. The SAT is administered at school during the regular school day under these circumstances. You may choose to send these scores to colleges in the same way as any other SAT results but sending them is not mandatory if you are not satisfied with your exam performance.

• Certain Positions Necessitate Test Score Submissions

Employers are increasingly requesting standardized test scores as part of their hiring process. While this is a relatively recent development, it is not limited to test preparation roles; consulting and finance positions may also require these scores. The Wall Street Journal reports that this practice is becoming more widespread. Although not all employers ask for SAT scores, having them available can be beneficial when applying to jobs that do.

• The SAT Does Not Include a Dedicated Science Section

The SAT includes some scientific reading passages but does not have a dedicated science section. The ACT’s science section consists of 40 questions and makes up one quarter of the total ACT score. The ACT Science section primarily assesses skills in interpreting graphs and data, rather than knowledge of specific scientific facts. While the SAT contains questions that are similar in content to those found in ACT Science, these make up a smaller portion of the exam. Therefore, students who prefer fewer graph, chart, and data analysis questions may find the SAT more suitable for their needs.

• The SAT Covers a More Limited Range of Mathematical Topics

Regarding mathematics content, both the ACT and the SAT place significant emphasis on algebra. However, the ACT includes certain mathematical topics that receive less attention or are not covered at all on the SAT.

On the ACT, approximately 30-45% of math questions focus on geometry, whereas geometry represents less than 10% of SAT Math questions. In addition, trigonometry comprises about 7% of the ACT but less than 5% of the SAT, indicating that the ACT has a slightly greater focus on trigonometry.

The ACT also assesses concepts that are not present on the SAT, such as matrices, graphs of trigonometric functions, and logarithms.

Choosing between ACT and SAT math sections depends largely on individual preferences and strengths. If algebra is an area of strength, the SAT may be preferable due to its heavier focus on algebraic concepts. Likewise, students who find mathematics challenging may prefer the SAT, as it covers fewer overall math topics, potentially reducing the breadth of material that requires study.

• The SAT Provides a Math Formula Sheet

There is a distinction regarding math resources: the SAT supplies a set of math formulas, while the ACT does not.

Before starting the two SAT Math subsections, test-takers receive a diagram listing 12 geometry formulas and three laws.

In contrast to the SAT, the ACT does not provide any formulas during the exam, requiring test-takers to memorize all necessary formulas in advance. For those who find reassurance in having access to a formula sheet, this feature of the SAT may offer an added advantage when approaching math questions.

• The SAT Allows More Time for Each Question

Standardized tests typically require efficient time management. However, the SAT provides examinees with slightly more time per question compared to the ACT, resulting in a less hurried testing experience.

For individuals who may feel anxious or stressed when working under strict time constraints, the SAT may be a more suitable option. While time management remains essential, the pace is generally less intense than that of the ACT.

Conclusion: The Rationale for Taking the SAT

The SAT (or ACT) is commonly selected by students intending to pursue university studies. This choice is supported by several compelling factors; as outlined above, these standardized tests may facilitate university admission, scholarship eligibility, and future employment opportunities.

There are also notable reasons why the SAT may be more suitable than the ACT.