Standardized Tests: A Complete Overview

Standardized tests remain an important part of college admissions, though their role has evolved. Here is what you need to know about each major exam.

The SAT

The SAT, administered by the College Board, is a three-hour multiple-choice test covering Evidence-Based Reading, Writing and Language, and Math (with and without a calculator). The highest possible score is 1600. Most students take it for the first time in their junior year spring or summer, with an opportunity to retake in the fall of senior year. The SAT is computer-based now, and the essay was discontinued in 2021.

The ACT

The ACT, published by ACT Inc., includes English, Math, Reading, and Science Reasoning, plus an optional Writing test. The highest score is 36. The ACT tends to reward students who read quickly and can process scientific data efficiently, since the Science section requires interpreting graphs and experiments rapidly. Many students find they score similarly on both tests, but some genuinely perform better on one over the other.

Subject Tests (Discontinued)

As of early 2021, the College Board has discontinued SAT Subject Tests in the United States. Some highly selective colleges formerly recommended or required two Subject Tests, but this is no longer the case. If you already have Subject Test scores from earlier, they may still be worth submitting to colleges that accept them.

When to Take Tests

The ideal timeline is to take your first SAT or ACT in the spring of your junior year after solid preparation. This gives you the summer to study intensively if your first score is not where you want it, and a fall retake opportunity in September or October of your senior year. Do not plan to take tests after November of your senior year — late fall scores often arrive after application deadlines.

Test-Optional Policies

Many colleges have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. This means you can choose whether to submit your test scores as part of your application. If your scores are strong and above a college's median, submitting them can strengthen your application. If your scores are significantly below the college's typical range, omitting them may be wise. However, test-optional does not mean test-blind — if you do not submit scores, colleges will evaluate your application using the other components.