Standardized Test
Understand Where Testing Fits Into Your Plan
Standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT may be part of the college planning process, but how test scores are used varies by college, program, scholarship, and student.
Some colleges require scores for admission, while others have test-optional or other testing policies. Even when a score isn't required for general admission, it may still be considered or required for scholarships, specific academic programs, course placement, athletics, or other opportunities.
The key is to understand the requirements for your plans before deciding when—or whether—to test.
Test-Optional Doesn't Always Mean Test-Irrelevant
If a college is test-optional, students can generally apply for admission without submitting an ACT or SAT score.
But don't stop your research there.
Ask whether scores are used for:
- Merit scholarships
- Admission to specific majors or programs
- Course placement
- Honors programs
- Academic advising
- Other institutional opportunities
Testing policies vary by institution and may change, so always check current requirements directly with the college or program.
Should You Take the ACT or SAT?
There isn't one answer for every student.
Consider taking an ACT or SAT if:
- A college or program you're considering requires a score.
- Scholarships you're considering require or use scores.
- You want the option to submit a score to a test-optional institution.
- A score could be useful for placement or a particular academic program.
- You haven't finalized your college list and want to keep your options open.
Your school counselor can help you evaluate how testing fits into your individual plans.
ACT or SAT?
The ACT and SAT are college admission tests used by institutions throughout the United States.
Colleges that accept standardized test scores generally specify which tests they accept and how scores are considered.
Before choosing a test, research:
- The colleges and programs you're considering
- Scholarship requirements
- Test format and content
- Available test dates
- Registration costs and possible fee waivers
- Which test better fits your strengths and preferences
You may also have access to practice or preliminary assessments through your school.
When Should You Test?
Your testing timeline should reflect your individual plans.
If you decide to take an ACT or SAT, give yourself enough time to receive your scores and, if appropriate, test again before important admission or scholarship deadlines.
As you create your timeline, consider:
- College application deadlines
- Scholarship deadlines
- Your academic preparation
- Available test dates
- Whether you may want another testing opportunity
Talk with your school counselor about a timeline that makes sense for you.
Prepare With Purpose
You don't have to prepare endlessly, but becoming familiar with the test can help you know what to expect.
Before test day:
- Learn the test format and timing.
- Take an official practice test.
- Identify areas where you need additional review.
- Practice answering questions under timed conditions.
- Review instructions and test-day requirements.
- Get adequate rest before the exam.
Use official preparation resources from the organization that administers your test whenever possible.
Should You Retake a Test?
If you aren't satisfied with your score, you may decide to test again.
Before registering, consider:
- How your score compares with requirements or typical ranges for your intended opportunities
- Whether additional preparation could realistically improve your performance
- Upcoming application or scholarship deadlines
- The time and cost involved
- Whether the institution considers your highest score, combines scores from multiple test dates, or uses another policy
Don't assume you need to keep testing indefinitely. Decide whether another attempt supports a specific goal.
Other Tests You May Encounter
ACT and SAT aren't the only assessments you may encounter as you plan for life after high school.
Depending on your pathway, you might take:
Placement Assessments
Colleges may use assessments or other measures to help determine appropriate course placement.
Advanced Placement (AP) Exams
Students completing AP coursework may take an exam that colleges can use to award credit or advanced placement according to their individual policies.
PSAT/NMSQT or PreACT
Preliminary assessments can provide testing experience and information about academic strengths and areas for improvement. The PSAT/NMSQT also plays a specific role in the National Merit Scholarship Program.
ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery is used by the U.S. military to assess abilities and help determine qualification for military occupations. Some schools also use related career-exploration resources.
Research Before You Register
Testing is one piece of a much larger academic and college planning process.
Before spending time and money on a test, understand why you're taking it and how you expect to use the score.
Check current requirements with the colleges, programs, scholarships, or other opportunities you're considering, and talk with your school counselor about how testing fits into your overall plan.
