29 answers
Aileen
Student
Vienna, Virginia
4
Questions
Asked
1080 views
Should I take the SAT or ACT or both? When should I take them?
I'm a rising freshman and I've already completed math classes up to Algebra 2. However, the reading and comprehension part is not my forte. I'm wondering if I should take the SAT/ACT in my freshman year or not, and if I should take both.
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29 answers
Cedric Kudowor
Business Operations and Risk Consultant
6
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Cedric’s Answer
If you can take both then take both. Or perhaps try taking practice exams for both and see which you initially score better in (relative to their grading scale of course). But I think the question is best answered by which academic institutions, universities, or colleges are you interested in? Sometimes they indicate which test they prefer. I personally took both; did much much better on the SAT and submitted only the SAT. Also worth noting, most of the universities I applied for had preferred SAT or the SAT was the most common tests they received.
Sending all the positive mojo your way!!!!!
Sending all the positive mojo your way!!!!!
Vinayak Kawathekar
Advisory Manager (Information Security)
8
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Vinayak’s Answer
Taking both the SAT and ACT is a brilliant strategy that gives you a massive competitive edge. Many students find that they naturally perform better on one test style over the other. By sitting for both, you maximize your chances of hitting an outstanding score.
Omar Nayeem
Tax consulting
10
Answers
Vienna, Virginia
Updated
Omar’s Answer
You only need to take one of the tests, not both. Try taking a practice test for each without any preparation to see how you score. Over the summer, focus on preparing for the test you did better on, as practice can improve your performance. Once you feel confident, take the official test.
Sophia Cakolli
External Auditor
4
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Sophia’s Answer
Hi, it's never too early to start thinking about college prep. However, I would say as a freshman in high school you might want to wait another year or two to take the actual exams. That being said, there are plenty of online learning sites that can help prepare you and begin studying for the exams. Also, since reading and english are not your strongest subjects, the ACT may be the better option for you as it also focuses more on the math and science skills. Hope this helps and good luck!
Ian Forton
Auditor
1
Answer
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Ian’s Answer
Hey Aileen,
This is a such a thoughtful question for someone in your shoes. I personally only took the ACT, with that being said, I know figuring out which program/school you want to attend for higher education may be further out but my best advice would be take a look at a couple of "dream" school and on their admissions site they should have metrics that they would like you to met. I would base your decision on this information.
This is a such a thoughtful question for someone in your shoes. I personally only took the ACT, with that being said, I know figuring out which program/school you want to attend for higher education may be further out but my best advice would be take a look at a couple of "dream" school and on their admissions site they should have metrics that they would like you to met. I would base your decision on this information.
Rose Kincaid, PMP
Sr Contract Analyst
24
Answers
Las Vegas, Nevada
Updated
Rose’s Answer
Hi Aileen! It's a good idea to wait before taking the official SAT or ACT. Start with the SAT and use practice tests to help you decide. Freshman year is usually too early, even if you're strong in math, because your reading and verbal skills will improve, and you'll get more comfortable with testing over time. Starting too soon might cause burnout. Many students take their first official SAT or ACT in the spring of junior year and retake it in the fall of senior year if needed. Meanwhile, focus on the PSAT to help you prepare.
Nicholas Cantor
Financial Statement Audit
4
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Nicholas’s Answer
Hi Aileen,
Think about what you're good at. I chose the ACT because it has less focus on math and science. Try finding sample tests for both exams online to see which one fits you best. It's amazing that you're exploring this as a freshman! Keep it up!
Think about what you're good at. I chose the ACT because it has less focus on math and science. Try finding sample tests for both exams online to see which one fits you best. It's amazing that you're exploring this as a freshman! Keep it up!
Nick Cheng
Consultant
14
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Nick’s Answer
Hi Aileen,
I was also in your shoes and ended up taking both. This would also be my advice to you. As you know, the tests have different subjects included and even for the ones that have overlapping subjects (English, math), the questions are tested differently. One of those two tests will better click with how your brain is wired and you won't know which one will be better for you until you try them. Good luck!
I was also in your shoes and ended up taking both. This would also be my advice to you. As you know, the tests have different subjects included and even for the ones that have overlapping subjects (English, math), the questions are tested differently. One of those two tests will better click with how your brain is wired and you won't know which one will be better for you until you try them. Good luck!
Abhishek Singhal
12
Answers
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
The SAT and ACT tests differ, but each can be a good choice based on your strengths. If you enjoy reading and science, consider the ACT. It’s longer but doesn’t require advanced math. If math is your strong point, the SAT might be better for you. Ultimately, the decision is yours. Use free resources to find out which test suits you best. Whichever you choose, practice and focus on time management to improve your performance. You can do it!
sowmya narayanagari
22
Answers
Updated
sowmya’s Answer
I suggest waiting until later to take the official SAT or ACT. It's best to focus on the SAT first and use practice tests to guide your decision. Freshman year is often too early for these tests, even if you're good at math, because your reading and verbal skills will likely get stronger, and you'll become more comfortable with testing over the next couple of years. Starting too early can lead to burnout. Most students find it helpful to take their first official SAT or ACT in the spring of junior year, and then retake it in the fall of senior year if necessary.
Lauren Chen
Audit
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Lauren’s Answer
Hi Aileen! I’d recommend taking both the SAT and ACT, then choosing the one that feels like the better fit for you. One thing to keep in mind is that the ACT includes a science section, so if you feel stronger in math and science than in reading comprehension, the ACT may be a good option for you.
Sara Doyle
Exhibits Coordinator
8
Answers
Douglas, Wyoming
Updated
Sara’s Answer
Hi Aileen,
Great to think ahead. As mentioned, you can do practice tests, and you have plenty of time since you are a freshman! As for which test, look at the schools you are most interested in attending and find out what they prefer. All my schools asked for ACT, so I never bothered with the SAT.
Best to you on your educational goals!
Great to think ahead. As mentioned, you can do practice tests, and you have plenty of time since you are a freshman! As for which test, look at the schools you are most interested in attending and find out what they prefer. All my schools asked for ACT, so I never bothered with the SAT.
Best to you on your educational goals!
Thank you so much for taking your time out to reply!
Aileen
Michael Blum
Consultant
7
Answers
Asheville, North Carolina
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Both for sure. You might find that you are better at one or the other. While you are already in the study and prep mode, make the most of your time and take them both. I ended up retaking myself for higher scores and found that helpful. Prioritize the studying and take as many practice exams and questions so that you are familiar with how things are asked. After that, go tackle those tests and leave everything on the table.
Wyatt Thomas
AI Tech Consultant; Army Veteran
5
Answers
Jacksonville, Florida
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hey Aileen,
Personal anecdote - I took both.
I noticed I did a lot better on the ACT then the SAT, so I then focused my efforts on increasing my ACT score.
Additional advice... if you take both and you only want to present the best test score in your applications -- please please make sure your school counselor knows this info. In my case, since I did not inform him, my counselor simply forwarded all my test scores to the schools I applied to. And since my SAT score was quite poor, I think it had a negative impact on some of my applications.
Hope this helps !
Personal anecdote - I took both.
I noticed I did a lot better on the ACT then the SAT, so I then focused my efforts on increasing my ACT score.
Additional advice... if you take both and you only want to present the best test score in your applications -- please please make sure your school counselor knows this info. In my case, since I did not inform him, my counselor simply forwarded all my test scores to the schools I applied to. And since my SAT score was quite poor, I think it had a negative impact on some of my applications.
Hope this helps !
Navneet Kashyap
Software Engineer
418
Answers
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
Updated
Navneet’s Answer
Don’t rush this in freshman year.
Best move:
Focus on school first (especially reading + writing skills)
Start lightly exploring SAT/ACT practice in sophomore year
Take your first real test in junior year (that’s the standard time)
SAT vs ACT:
SAT = more reading + math reasoning
ACT = faster pace + science section
Should you take both?
Only if you want to compare scores later
Most students try one first, then decide
Simple truth: your reading skill will improve over time—so giving yourself a couple of years will help way more than taking it too early.
Best move:
Focus on school first (especially reading + writing skills)
Start lightly exploring SAT/ACT practice in sophomore year
Take your first real test in junior year (that’s the standard time)
SAT vs ACT:
SAT = more reading + math reasoning
ACT = faster pace + science section
Should you take both?
Only if you want to compare scores later
Most students try one first, then decide
Simple truth: your reading skill will improve over time—so giving yourself a couple of years will help way more than taking it too early.
Le Lanya Kilchrist
Medical Laboratory Technician
4
Answers
New Iberia, Louisiana
Updated
Le Lanya’s Answer
SAT is highly sought after for major universities. The ACT is valuable as a placement test. If you are weak in certain subjects, your college will put you in a remedial math or remedial English before you attempt the college level courses they offer. SAT is not going to give you that option as it is not the same kind of test and is much more difficult. Prep classes can be taken for both and don’t forget CLEP testing is invaluable to get a jump start on your college career. It also offers prep courses and it is possible to get a voucher and get the exit exam for free. With CLEP you challenge the exam and get college credit for the course, no SAT or ACT necessary.
Micah Puccio-Ball
DevOps
9
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Micah’s Answer
Hi Aileen,
It's great that you're looking so far ahead. Both the SAT and ACT are great tests to show some of you educational progress. However, as a freshman, neither will provide much benefit for you besides exposure. I would encourage you to look into the PSAT.
Overall, you really only need one of the two for college. I only ever took the SAT which I scored high enough in for my needs. I would suggest taking the PSAT next year to see how you do then go from there.
Good luck!
It's great that you're looking so far ahead. Both the SAT and ACT are great tests to show some of you educational progress. However, as a freshman, neither will provide much benefit for you besides exposure. I would encourage you to look into the PSAT.
Overall, you really only need one of the two for college. I only ever took the SAT which I scored high enough in for my needs. I would suggest taking the PSAT next year to see how you do then go from there.
Good luck!
Abhishek Singhal
12
Answers
Updated
Abhishek’s Answer
The SAT and ACT tests have some differences, but both can be a great choice depending on your strengths. If you enjoy reading and general science, the ACT might be a good fit, as it can be a bit lengthy but doesn't require advanced math skills. On the other hand, if you're stronger in math, the SAT could be more suitable for you. Ultimately, it's a personal decision. There are many free resources available to help you explore your abilities and preferences. No matter which test you choose, practicing and preparing well, especially with time management, will make a big difference. You can do it!
Tianqi Wen
Audit & Assurance
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Tianqi’s Answer
Hi Aileen!
Since you've taken Algebra 2 and aren't a fan of reading and comprehension, the ACT might be a better fit for you than the SAT. The SAT focuses more on reading and understanding complex texts, while the ACT has more math and science questions.
I recommend trying practice tests for both the ACT and SAT to see which one suits you better. Our goal is to get the highest score possible, so find your strength and use it to your advantage.
Tests might seem dull, but remember, it's all worth it when you achieve the score you want. Good luck with your studies!
Since you've taken Algebra 2 and aren't a fan of reading and comprehension, the ACT might be a better fit for you than the SAT. The SAT focuses more on reading and understanding complex texts, while the ACT has more math and science questions.
I recommend trying practice tests for both the ACT and SAT to see which one suits you better. Our goal is to get the highest score possible, so find your strength and use it to your advantage.
Tests might seem dull, but remember, it's all worth it when you achieve the score you want. Good luck with your studies!
Martha D. Kramer
Corporate Training and Communications
90
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Martha D.’s Answer
Hi Aileen, it is great that you are thinking ahead like this.
Since most students take the SAT and/or ACT during their junior or senior years, I would not suggest taking either one during freshman year. You would be measured against people with several years more maturity and education.
That said, during the Spring and Summer of freshman year, you could start preparing for the PSAT which is administered in the Fall of sophomore year. There are free practice problems on Khan Academy and other sites, and you should focus on the reading section. Don't just do lots of problems; find a strategy that makes sense to you and practice that until it becomes second nature. Doing that will develop your speed and accuracy and cover you for a problem you have not seen before.
As for which to take, I recommend taking free practices for both to see which you like better. If needed, colleges/universities accept both. Many students prefer the ACT, but you may not like it if you don't like science. Below is a link comparing both; it is from the ACT, but I found it helpful. The College Board also has one but I found it more biased.
I hope this helps and wish you good luck!
Comparison - https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/scores/act-vs-sat.html
Since most students take the SAT and/or ACT during their junior or senior years, I would not suggest taking either one during freshman year. You would be measured against people with several years more maturity and education.
That said, during the Spring and Summer of freshman year, you could start preparing for the PSAT which is administered in the Fall of sophomore year. There are free practice problems on Khan Academy and other sites, and you should focus on the reading section. Don't just do lots of problems; find a strategy that makes sense to you and practice that until it becomes second nature. Doing that will develop your speed and accuracy and cover you for a problem you have not seen before.
As for which to take, I recommend taking free practices for both to see which you like better. If needed, colleges/universities accept both. Many students prefer the ACT, but you may not like it if you don't like science. Below is a link comparing both; it is from the ACT, but I found it helpful. The College Board also has one but I found it more biased.
I hope this helps and wish you good luck!
Martha D. recommends the following next steps:
Anuj Gupta
Software Engineering
468
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Anuj’s Answer
Headline: You have a math superpower—but hit the brakes on the official exams for now!
Completing Algebra 2 before even stepping foot into high school is an incredible achievement. Because the math sections on both the SAT and ACT heavily feature Algebra 2, you have already conquered the hardest math hurdles on these tests.
SAT vs. ACT: Which is Better for Your Reading Style?You absolutely should not take both official exams. Colleges accept them equally, so your goal is to find the one that plays to your strengths and stick to it. The landscape has changed significantly, making your choice a bit easier:The Digital SATThe Format: Entirely digital and computer-adaptive (the test gets harder or easier depending on how you answer).The Reading Style: Features very short, one-paragraph passages with only one question per passage. If long, multi-page essays overwhelm you, the SAT’s bite-sized reading format might be much less intimidating.The Enhanced ACTThe Format: Shorter than it used to be, and you can choose to take it on paper or digitally. The Science section is completely optional and no longer counts toward your main 1–36 composite score. The Reading Style: Features traditional, longer reading passages, but it gives you more time per question than it used to. The questions are often more straightforward and literal than the SAT's tricky phrasing, but you have to be a faster reader to get through the text.
Your Action Plan
Focus on your GPA this year. Your high school grades matter more than any test score.
Read 15 minutes a day. Read whatever interests you—sci-fi, sports analytics, history—just to build up your reading stamina and vocabulary.
Forget about test prep until the end of 10th grade. When the time comes, take a practice test of each, compare your scores, pick the higher one, and dedicate your energy entirely to that single test.
Completing Algebra 2 before even stepping foot into high school is an incredible achievement. Because the math sections on both the SAT and ACT heavily feature Algebra 2, you have already conquered the hardest math hurdles on these tests.
SAT vs. ACT: Which is Better for Your Reading Style?You absolutely should not take both official exams. Colleges accept them equally, so your goal is to find the one that plays to your strengths and stick to it. The landscape has changed significantly, making your choice a bit easier:The Digital SATThe Format: Entirely digital and computer-adaptive (the test gets harder or easier depending on how you answer).The Reading Style: Features very short, one-paragraph passages with only one question per passage. If long, multi-page essays overwhelm you, the SAT’s bite-sized reading format might be much less intimidating.The Enhanced ACTThe Format: Shorter than it used to be, and you can choose to take it on paper or digitally. The Science section is completely optional and no longer counts toward your main 1–36 composite score. The Reading Style: Features traditional, longer reading passages, but it gives you more time per question than it used to. The questions are often more straightforward and literal than the SAT's tricky phrasing, but you have to be a faster reader to get through the text.
Your Action Plan
Focus on your GPA this year. Your high school grades matter more than any test score.
Read 15 minutes a day. Read whatever interests you—sci-fi, sports analytics, history—just to build up your reading stamina and vocabulary.
Forget about test prep until the end of 10th grade. When the time comes, take a practice test of each, compare your scores, pick the higher one, and dedicate your energy entirely to that single test.
Amrit Patra
IT
2
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Amrit’s Answer
Hello Aileen! You’re already doing something really smart by planning ahead so early!
For a rising freshman, I’d recommend focusing on classes and skill-building clubs now instead of taking official SAT or ACT tests this year. Since you’re strong in math , your biggest advantage will come from improving reading and comprehension over the next 1-2 years. In sophomore year, take one full-length SAT practice test and one full-length ACT practice test, compare your scores and comfort level, then choose the one that fits you best and focus on that. Most students do not need to take both official exams unless scores are very close.
A good timeline is: practice in sophomore year, first real test in spring of junior year, and one retake in late summer or fall if needed.
You are absolutely on the right path, and with steady effort your strengths will only grow.
For a rising freshman, I’d recommend focusing on classes and skill-building clubs now instead of taking official SAT or ACT tests this year. Since you’re strong in math , your biggest advantage will come from improving reading and comprehension over the next 1-2 years. In sophomore year, take one full-length SAT practice test and one full-length ACT practice test, compare your scores and comfort level, then choose the one that fits you best and focus on that. Most students do not need to take both official exams unless scores are very close.
A good timeline is: practice in sophomore year, first real test in spring of junior year, and one retake in late summer or fall if needed.
You are absolutely on the right path, and with steady effort your strengths will only grow.
Rishi Patel, MBA, MPH, MS
Consulting
5
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Rishi’s Answer
To start, try taking both practice tests or a diagnostic test to see which one matches your strengths better. If one stands out, focus your study efforts on that test.
There are many courses available for ACT and SAT prep, but you can also study on your own. Many libraries have study materials, and with dedication, you can prepare without a formal course.
If you have a list of schools you're interested in, check their admissions requirements. Some schools may prefer one test over the other, which can help you decide which test to focus on.
Taking the real exam might be too early on in freshman year, so you should plan to study up until about the summer before or even during your Junior year, and take the real test around then -- be sure to check admissions requirements for deadlines on which exam dates they accept!
You've got this!
There are many courses available for ACT and SAT prep, but you can also study on your own. Many libraries have study materials, and with dedication, you can prepare without a formal course.
If you have a list of schools you're interested in, check their admissions requirements. Some schools may prefer one test over the other, which can help you decide which test to focus on.
Taking the real exam might be too early on in freshman year, so you should plan to study up until about the summer before or even during your Junior year, and take the real test around then -- be sure to check admissions requirements for deadlines on which exam dates they accept!
You've got this!
Shreya Toliya
Oracle HCM Cloud Consultant
36
Answers
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Updated
Shreya’s Answer
Since you’ve already completed Algebra 2, you’re in a great position to start building toward the SAT or ACT early, but freshman year is usually best used for preparation rather than taking the official test right away. That gives you time to strengthen your reading and comprehension skills, build stamina, and figure out which exam fits you best. A smart approach would be to spend freshman and sophomore year practicing reading strategies and vocabulary, then take a full SAT practice test and a full ACT practice test under timed conditions to compare your results and choose the test that plays to your strengths.
Kristina Macaluso
External Auditor/Accountant
5
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Kristina’s Answer
It's great that you are already considering the factors that would feed college applications, such as standardized testing. In terms of my personal experience, I first took both to get a feel of the exams and the nuances/timing behind them. I found that the ACT was better suited towards my testing style and effectiveness to achieve my target scores. I found that the ACT had a bit more emphasis on science & math, while the SAT had a bit more complexity with literature and writing. After each experience, I ended up investing time into tutoring and learning materials to prepare to take the ACT two more times (partially because standardized testing was overall stressful & the tutoring gave me the tools to breakdown the test and plan out the time required for each section/question). However, I would say that Freshman year is early to consider taking the test & I would suggest waiting till sophomore, even junior year, so you can also further develop from your classes before taking the test. Unsure if this is a big factor, but there is also the cost element here. This why I would recommend focusing on one or the other, and if you have the option for standardized testing materials/tutoring to learn the design of the tests, I would encourage it!
Brendan Moffitt
Consultant
3
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Brendan’s Answer
I did better on the ACT. If you can, try practice tests for both the ACT and SAT. See which one you score higher on or prefer.
Vijaya Bhandari
11
Answers
Updated
Vijaya’s Answer
I think take diagnotistic for both and see which one you score better and take that one. Colleges are okay with either SAT or ACT so take the one that you can score the most. If you have already taken one, esp multple times, and not getting the desired score, I would suggest take another and see if you score in that one. Hope this works. Good luck.
Ashton Owens
Tax Consultant
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Ashton’s Answer
Hi Aileen! This is a great question.
If you’re deciding between the SAT and ACT, I’d start by learning the main differences between the two tests. The SAT and ACT are structured differently, and one may fit your strengths better than the other. Since you mentioned that reading and comprehension are not your strongest areas, it may be especially helpful to compare the format, pacing, and question style of each exam before deciding. A great next step would be to take a free practice test for both the SAT and ACT. After trying each one, you’ll get a better sense of which test feels more manageable and which one plays more to your strengths.
As far as timing goes, I would not stress about taking the test during freshman year unless you simply want early exposure. For most students, it makes more sense to spend freshman and sophomore year building skills and then begin studying more seriously by sophomore year. A good goal is to take your first official test at the beginning of junior year, since that gives you time to improve your score before college applications and scholarships become a priority. Most college applications start during junior year, so having a strong score by then can be very helpful.
I’d also recommend using free study resources whenever possible, since there are many available online and through schools. Don’t hesitate to ask your school counselor about prep materials, tutoring options, or test-prep programs your school may offer. They may know of resources that fit your needs and can help you build confidence over time. The key is to start early, test out both options, and give yourself enough time to improve. Good luck on your journey!
If you’re deciding between the SAT and ACT, I’d start by learning the main differences between the two tests. The SAT and ACT are structured differently, and one may fit your strengths better than the other. Since you mentioned that reading and comprehension are not your strongest areas, it may be especially helpful to compare the format, pacing, and question style of each exam before deciding. A great next step would be to take a free practice test for both the SAT and ACT. After trying each one, you’ll get a better sense of which test feels more manageable and which one plays more to your strengths.
As far as timing goes, I would not stress about taking the test during freshman year unless you simply want early exposure. For most students, it makes more sense to spend freshman and sophomore year building skills and then begin studying more seriously by sophomore year. A good goal is to take your first official test at the beginning of junior year, since that gives you time to improve your score before college applications and scholarships become a priority. Most college applications start during junior year, so having a strong score by then can be very helpful.
I’d also recommend using free study resources whenever possible, since there are many available online and through schools. Don’t hesitate to ask your school counselor about prep materials, tutoring options, or test-prep programs your school may offer. They may know of resources that fit your needs and can help you build confidence over time. The key is to start early, test out both options, and give yourself enough time to improve. Good luck on your journey!
Aparna Sarnu
40
Answers
Updated
Aparna’s Answer
Hi there! Try taking practice tests for both the ACT and SAT to see where you stand. Then, decide if you want to focus on one or take both.