The ACT (American College Testing) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States, and in some cases, international schools as well. Understanding its structure and benefits can help students make an informed decision about whether it’s the right choice for them.
The ACT is divided into four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. Each of these sections is designed to assess different skills:
English: This section tests grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills. It consists of 75 questions to be completed in 45 minutes.
Math: Covering a range of mathematical concepts from algebra to trigonometry, this section includes 60 questions with a 60-minute time limit.
Reading: Students read passages and answer questions to demonstrate their comprehension and interpretation skills. This section features 40 questions to be completed in 35 minutes.
Science: This section evaluates scientific reasoning and interpretation skills through 40 questions in 35 minutes.
Writing (Optional): Students can choose to complete a 40-minute essay that evaluates their writing skills and ability to articulate complex ideas.
Why should a student consider taking the ACT? The ACT is known for its straightforward question format and emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. It’s also generally considered more flexible with its content, covering a broad range of subjects that may align better with a student’s strengths. For students who perform better under time pressure, the ACT might be a good choice, as it requires quicker responses per question compared to the SAT.
Why should a student consider taking the ACT? The ACT is known for its straightforward question format and emphasis on problem-solving and critical thinking. It’s also generally considered more flexible with its content, covering a broad range of subjects that may align better with a student’s strengths. For students who perform better under time pressure, the ACT might be a good choice, as it requires quicker responses per question compared to the SAT.
Ultimately, the decision between the ACT and SAT depends on the student’s strengths, test-taking style and abilities, and the college admissions requirements imposed by the universities they are targeting. The ACT may be particularly advantageous for students who excel in science and prefer a test that integrates multiple subjects in one assessment. It can also be a good option for those who are looking for a test with a more straightforward format compared to the SAT.
It is always a good idea to take practice tests for both exams to see which aligns better with your skills. While both the ACT and SAT are valuable for college admissions, the ACT’s unique structure is attractive to many students. Just like Coke vs. Pepsi, the ACT and the SAT offer similar yet very different options that can both quench your thirst and help you achieve your college dreams.
It’s important for students to understand that personal story that highlights the hardships that they may have faced does not define them or their ability to succeed in college. Admissions officers are looking for students who can contribute to their campus community, and who have the potential to succeed academically and personally. A personal statement is an opportunity for a student to showcase their unique qualities and strengths, regardless of their life experiences. The whole idea is to share a facet of the student’s life that can really paint a compelling portrait of the personality and character.
Share your future goals:
Your SAT score reflects your academic rigor. When you decide whether to re-take the SAT or submit your score, consider elements like your high school curriculum and GPA. If your SAT score indicates a stronger academic readiness than your GPA, then it is a good SAT score. A student who has challenged themselves with a rigorous academic coursework, excelled in extracurricular pursuits, and received glowing recommendations might not require an exceptionally high SAT score to shine as a strong candidate. Conversely, a less robust profile may need to submit a strong SAT score to bolster their application.
In the quest to define a “good” SAT score, it is imperative to understand how your preferred colleges assess test scores in their unique admissions processes. A good resource is the Common Data Set. If you search “(College name) common data set,” you will find information on SAT score ranges, the percentage of students who submitted test scores, and whether the admissions office considers test scores an evaluative criterion. A thorough research can offer valuable insights into each college’s approach to standardized testing, and whether or not you should share your SAT with this school.
Why is writing for college applications so very difficult? Why does it stir up so much doubt? Because of fear. Fear of looking silly. Fear of writing the wrong thing. Fear of being REJECTED.
Insight #1: Channel Your Creativity!
If you are worried about your writing, while you are writing it, this means your editor and writer selves are battling for control. Who is the captain? The editor or the writer? If the answer is “both” that means the boat goes nowhere (“boat” in this metaphor being your draft). When you notice your inner editor interfering, questioning, or otherwise stopping the writing process, try thanking it for showing up and asking it to wait a while until it is time to work. When will that be? 
