Some 4-year colleges and universities require or consider SAT or ACT exams in college admissions. Both tests are accepted and equally viewed by colleges and universities. Test scores are only one factor in the admissions decision and should not be viewed as the most important factor. Students are encouraged to take practice tests to help make a decision about which test to take or whether to take the test at all.

(Source: Big Future: Testing)

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What are College Admissions Tests?

You may know college admission tests by name — the SAT and the ACT. These tests, also called college entrance exams, are designed to measure students’ skills and help colleges evaluate how ready students are for college-level work.

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Are colleges requiring the SAT or ACT?

Colleges will have one of 3 testing policies, and the best way to find out is to visit the college’s website or to contact admissions. 

• Test Required: Some will require SAT/ACT for admissions, such as MIT, Georgetown University, Harvard, and Purdue University.

• Test-Free: No need to test! The UCs and Cal States are not using SAT/ACT scores in admissions.
• Test-Optional: Many colleges are test-optional. You will have the option to submit SAT/ACT scores, if your score is strong and can help your application. You also have the option of not submitting a score. Check out the current list of test-optional colleges.

How can I compare SAT vs. ACT scores?

Use the ACT/SAT Concordance table to compare scores. 

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