What to know: ACTs, SATs

What is the ACT? The ACT is an entrance exam for colleges and universities based on English, mathematics, reading and science. ACT scores give colleges and universities a more complete view of an applicant’s academic capabilities, while ensuring that students are prepared for the rigor of college academics.

The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36. Each section, which are English, mathematics, reading and science, are graded on that scale individually. Then, they are averaged together and become your composite score. 

 An average ACT score is 21, however anything lower will not be the determining factor for your college admission. A “good” ACT score is a 24—and scoring at least that would put you in the 75th percentile. 

Higher scores, such as those above 30, will aid you in competing for acceptance into more prestigious schools, such as Harvard or Columbia University. 

SAT scores are a part of many college applications, and can help colleges and universities quickly see your skills in comparison to other applicants. Though this may sound intimidating, many colleges have begun to make it optional to submit your scores. Make sure you research the colleges you’re interested in and the way they handle SAT scores, as most have different rules and requirements. 

What is a good SAT score? A perfect SAT score is 1600, however any score above the 50th percentile, 1050, is a “good” score. 

There is a reading and writing section, a mathematics section, and an optional essay. Despite this overwhelming façade, there are many options available to students to help them prepare for the SAT. 

Both the ACT and SAT scores are used to balance out areas of applications where students aren’t as strong, and your scores can also be helpful in earning scholarships.

Remember while applying and looking at colleges to research their average SAT and ACT scores. The SAT and ACT can be taken multiple times, so strive for a better score to catch the eye of a good college.