Section Summary: Neither the SAT nor the ACT is harder than the other – but each test benefits a different type of student. It’s essential that you figure out which test is best suited for you, so that you can achieve the highest scores possible.
Do colleges prefer SAT or ACT?
Both ACT and SAT scores are used for college admissions decisions and awarding merit-based scholarships. Most colleges do not prefer one test over the other. Neither the SAT or ACT is harder than the other. Different students tend to do better on one test over the other.
Which is easier the ACT or SAT?
Most colleges accept either the ACT or SAT, so that’s good. But you may be wondering “Is the ACT easier than the SAT?” It’s actually a common misconception that the ACT test is easier than the SAT test. In fact, the answer isn’t cut and dry.
Should I study for the SAT or ACT first?
Your first priority should be the test you’re better at, since you want to put in the most effort where you’ll get the most reward. We recommend against studying for the two tests at the same time, but given many students’ busy schedules this may be unavoidable.
Does Harvard prefer ACT or SAT?
A strong knowledge of English is essential for successful study at Harvard, including the ability to understand and express thoughts quickly and clearly. We ordinarily require the results of the SAT or ACT (with or without writing) and two SAT Subject Tests for all candidates.
What is a good SAT score?
While there’s no standard for a “good” SAT score, it’s best to aim for at least 1200. More importantly, aim for an SAT score that’s within or higher than your school’s middle 50%.
Is it harder to get a 36 or a 1600?
Getting a 1600 on the SAT is harder than getting a 36 on the ACT. To get a perfect 1600 on the SAT, one has to get a perfect 800 on each of the two SAT sections. To get a perfect 36 on the ACT, in contrast, one has to get a score that can be rounded up to 36. For instance, 35.5 is equivalent to 36.
What does a 36 on the ACT get you?
You have a shot at getting in anywhere with a score of 36. It places you in the top 99th percentile nationally out of the 2 million test takers of the ACT entrance exam. The score indicates you’ve done a truly exceptional job answering the questions on the English, Math, Reading and Science sections of the test.
Which SAT date is the easiest?
Myth: The March SAT is the easiest SAT test date. Fact: There’s no such thing as “the easiest SAT test date.” While it’s true that some versions of the SAT are easier than others, it’s completely false that some test dates are predictably easier than others.
Is the SAT hard?
So here is the short answer: Yes, the SAT is hard. You have to sit in one place for almost four hours, all while answering questions that range from straightforward to head-scratching difficult. … Again, you have to concentrate for hours, giving each question its due.