A Guide to US University Entrance Tests: SAT or ACT

Test	Sections	Score Range	Number of Testing Sites in the UK	Optional Essay
SAT	Maths, Critical Reading & Writing	400-1600 (200-800 per section)	30+	Yes (Unmarked)
ACT	English, Maths, Reading, Science	1-36 (Composite score)	13	Yes (Unmarked)

For more detailed information, visit College Board.

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) has two parts: Math and Critical Reading and Writing, both of which are multiple-choice. The total possible score is 400-1600, with individual sections having a range of 200-800.

English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science comprise the four sections of the American College Testing System (ACT). The total score is the product of the four parts, with each part having a point value between one and thirty-six.

Embracement and Choices

American colleges and universities, especially those at the very top, accept both the SAT and the ACT. Despite the fact that these exams are considered optional by some schools, having a high score on them will give your application a leg up when competing with US applicants.

Sites for Testing

More than 30 locations around the United Kingdom offer the SAT. Make use of ACT at one of thirteen UK testing locations.

Studying for Exams

Provide an Answer Every Day

You can use the apps for both exams to get a “Question of the Day” and practice for the test whenever you want. By consistently practicing, you can strengthen your knowledge and become more adept at taking tests.

Study Guides for Exams

Exam prep books are published by a plethora of companies. Included in these books are practice exams and methods for creating an environment similar to the real thing. You must carefully consider each question that you get wrong in order to grasp the fundamental concepts.

Both Individual and Small-Group Instruction

With the help of a private tutor, you can focus on the areas of your study that require the most attention and develop your skills in those areas.

Group Classes: Learning in a structured setting with the support of fellow students is one of the many advantages of enrolling in a group class taught by an experienced teacher.

Taking the Exams Again

Many students take the exams more than once in an effort to get better scores. When trying to get into your dream school, this can be especially crucial if you want to get into the top half of your class.

More scholarships may be available to you if your score is higher.

While only a small percentage of test-takers manage to get a perfect score each year, some students strive for that goal.

Views from the University

Multiple test scores, particularly those showing improvement, are typically viewed favorably by universities. Your enthusiasm for the admissions process and your drive to succeed academically can be shown in this way.

FAQ

Is writing the essay part essential?

The essay is not required and will not be graded, but many schools like to see it since it demonstrates your writing abilities in action.

I need to know how many times to take the exams.

Although there is no definitive rule, it may be helpful to retake the test if you feel you need to raise your score. You should not neglect other parts of your application in favor of studying for the test.

Which exam should I take?

Evaluate each test’s structure and content to find the one that best suits your abilities. While some students do better on the more structured SAT, others do better on the more analytical ACT science section.

Am I allowed to do the necessary preparations independently?

It is possible to self-study with the help of books, apps, and the internet. However, many students discover that they are much better prepared when they have access to extra help in the form of tutors or group classes.

What does a competitive score look like?

Get to know the admissions percentile profiles of the schools you’re interested in attending. Consider this a starting point for determining what kind of scores you’ll need to be competitive.

You can improve your odds of getting into a US university by studying hard and knowing how the SAT and ACT differ.