<aside> 💡 Aka ‘Standardized Tests’. Most colleges require students to take a test of academic skill for entry. You'll have a choice between the ACT or the SAT. Some colleges are test-optional.

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Colleges are increasingly ditching the testing requirement. Check if you really have to sit them.

ACT

• Four sections: Maths, Reading, English, Science
• Optional Writing section. Could be required depending for your college.
• Study Guide
• Places & times to sit the test

SAT

• Two sections: English, Maths
• Optional Writing section. Could be required depending for your college.
• Study Guide
• Places & times to sit the test

Additionally, for some colleges, you'll have to sit tests that gauge knowledge level in particular subject areas. See below.

SAT Subject Tests (aka 'SAT 2')

The subjects on offer:

• Science

• Languages

• English Literature

• History

• Mathematics

About the tests..

The SAT and the SAT 2 are not interchangeable tests for submission. You either take the SAT/ACT and an SAT 2, or just the SAT/ACT. Examples of test combinations:

SAT + Chemistry

ACT w/ writing + Spanish

ACT w/out writing + Physics +Math II

SAT

Nailing standardized prep is about applying a small number of behaviors consistently over a period of time., as with everything in this process, as with life. The earlier you start the better you will make your life. Tips:

• It's ****more of a test of how good you are at preparing for tests than anything.
• As a pre-GCSE student, you have 90% of the academic knowledge required for all tests. Sprint through the topics in the books to fill the gaps. The majority of time will be spent improving your test-taking skills.
• Practice. Practice. Practice. When you make a mistake, make a note of it, then never make the same mistake again.
• It's harder to move from a 32 to 33 than a 29 to a 30. Sometimes it might not be worth trying to improve your score by 1 point when you might already be in the Range for the college.
  • Ex: Rice ACT range: 32-34. If you're at a 32 and already feel like you gave the test your best shot, shift your energy to your grades, or spend time refining or improving on your activities. This will be a more interesting/authentic use of your time anyway, and would make for a more substantial EC, therefore a more impactful one, and a better essay.

How to improve ACT score ASAP.docx