Most colleges require either the SAT or ACT, and express no preference for either test. That said, significant percentages of students at selective colleges are submitting scores from both tests when they apply. Preparing for 2 major standardized tests may sound daunting, but there are some very good reasons to take both the SAT and ACT, and it's easier (and more affordable!) than ever before to prep for both tests.
1. Give More Information to the Admissions Committee
Princeton University's dean of admissions is on record as saying:
“...more information is always better. If students choose one or the other, that’s fine, because both tests have value. But if they submit both, that generally gives us a little more information.”
And some of the most selective schools are reporting that as much as a quarter (or more!) of their enrolled students submitted scores for both exams.
| School | % frosh enrolled in fall 2016 that submitted ACT AND SAT scores |
|---|---|
| Stanford University | 31% |
| Harvard College | 16% |
| Yale University | 19% |
| Princeton University | 18% |
| MIT | 26% |
| University of Chicago | 16% |
| Cal Tech | 28% |
2. Prep More Efficiently
You’re applying to competitive schools and crafting a stellar college application —which means you may end up wanting to take standardized tests more than once to earn your target scores. If you start by planning to take both tests, you’ll be able make an informed decision about which one best displays your strengths. You will not need to double your test prep time to take both the SAT and ACT.
Read More: How to Prep for Both the SAT and ACT
3. Increase Your Chances of Receiving Merit Aid
Even if you are applying to a college or university that does not require test scores for admission, ACT or SAT scores may be required to be considered for merit-based financial aid, and for any outside scholarship applications.
4. Take Fewer Tests (No, Really!)
Some schools require applicants to submit scores from the ACT... OR from the SAT plus 2 to 3 SAT Subject tests. If you plan to take the SAT, taking the ACT too will cover you just in case something goes wrong on one of your SAT Subject tests.
5. You'll Have More Options
Considering both tests gives you a lot more flexibility when it comes to choosing test dates.
We know how to help you prep efficiently for both the ACT and SAT, and we have excellent options to help you prep for both cost-effectively.
Build the right test prep plan for you
Our experts will help you build a prep plan that's customized to your score goals, study habits, and schedule.
Explore Colleges For You
Connect with our featured colleges to find schools that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.
Get Started on Athletic Scholarships & Recruiting!
Join athletes who were discovered, recruited & often received scholarships after connecting with NCSA's 42,000 strong network of coaches.
Best 382 Colleges
137,000 students rate everything from their professors to their campus social scene.