ACT and SAT

Which Test is Best for Me?

Colleges accept both tests equally, so the choice is up to you! Here's what you need to know to compare the exams.

	SAT	ACT
STRUCTURE	Math, Reading, Writing/Language, optional essay	Math, Reading, English, Science, optional essay
LENGTH	3 hours (without essay)	3 hours, 35 mins (without essay)
READING	5 Reading passages	4 Reading passages
SCIENCE	None	1 Science section – testing critical thinking skills
MATH	Arithmetic, Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Data Analysis	Arithmetic, Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, and Trigonometry
TOOLS	Some math questions don't allow use of calculator	Calculator allowed for all math questions
ESSAYS	Optional – tests comprehension of a source text	Optional – tests how well you evaluate and analyze complex issues
SCORE	Scored on a scale of 400-1600. Average score is 1050-1060.	Scored on a scale of 1-36. Average score is 20.8.

Test Information

The ACT test gauges a student’s readiness for success in the first year of college. ACT scores can get you money for scholarships. Most colleges are "test optional", meaning you no longer need to take the ACT to get in. However, that is based on your GPA. If your GPA is too low, you will need a higher ACT score to be accepted.

For the 2023-2024 school year: All Arkansas City High School juniors can take the ACT during the regular school day – for FREE on 2/28/2024.

Prepare for the ACT

ACHS has compiled a wide variety of ACT Prep resources, tips, trick and tactics. To access, join the ACT Prep Google Classroom: ACT Prep 23-24, class code eiqvwrl

ACT Vocabulary Prep

ACT Flashcard Sites

ACT Strategies

ACT Study Plan

2023-2024 ACT Dates and Tips

ACT Academy

Free ACT Test Prep

Do I Need to Take the ACT?

ACT scores can help you get into the four-year college that you want. Not all require ACT scores, but many do. If you are planning to attend a two-year college or a certification program you do not have to take the ACT. However, if you score a 26 composite, you are eligible for free tuition, fees, and books at some community colleges, including Cowley College. Also, many scholarships require a minimum ACT score to qualify

Registering for the ACT

To register for the ACT, go to actstudent.org and click on SIGN UP/LOG IN
ACHS SCHOOL CODE: 170-110***
TEST CENTER CODE: 208270
When you register, you will need a copy of your transcript and a copy of your school photo. The photo can be downloaded from PowerSchool and uploaded into the ACT registration.
The cost for other ACT participants is $68.
If you are classified as a junior or senior AND are on free or reduced lunches, in Upward Bound, in Foster Care, are documented as Homeless, are in Gear Up or live in Low Income Housing, you are eligible to take the test for free. The waiver allows you to take the test twice, in a lifetime, without charge. You must register with your counselor, if you qualify for the waiver. If you do not qualify for the waiver, you may register with your counselor, but you must have a credit or debit card number, with expiration date and security code.
Students can get four waivers now to take the test for free and it is only for juniors and seniors.
ACT Prep Google Classroom: ACT Prep 23-24, class code eiqvwrl
Mr. Lim is offering a test prep class this semester during advisory. We believe we will have a test prep class next year.

Visit ACT.org for additional information.

***Once you register to take the ACT at the ACHS testing site, check your email for updates on site change from ACT. ACT will consolidate testers to other sites if ACHS does not have the minimum amount of registered test takers.