Should I take both the SAT and ACT? And when should I start studying?

Question

I'm gonna be a junior this year, I'm probably going to take ACT this winter and spring, but I don't know whether I should take the SAT in the spring/fall or not.

Most (if not all) of the colleges that I have been looking at will accept one of the two or both. Should I spend the money on both tests (my family is very strapped for money as it is) or just try to get a really good score on one?

Or should I take the SAT instead of the ACT?

Also, if I want to take the December ACT (it will be my first time taking it) when should I start studying? October or earlier than that?

Answer 1

take the SAT only. The Act is barely noticed by colleges, but some accept it. The SAT is taken by almost everyone, so if you do take it, colleges can focus on how you compare to others.

Answer 2

You should ask your counselor at school what they would recommend.  Then follow their suggestion.  It may depend on what college you plan to attend after high school graduation.

Answer 3

My freshman English Honors teacher told me a story of how when he was applying to Pepperdine University, he was like 30 points off on his SAT scores to be eligible for a scholarship there. As he was getting ready to take the SAT again, his mom told him to take the ACT in addition to it. His SAT score was the same as his previous one, so he didn't qualify for the scholarship, however his ACT score was like a 32, and that score got him $10k a year at Pepperdine, totalling  to $40k total for four years. Moral of the story: take the ACT. If you can't afford the ACT, take the SAT for sure. It's required for entry to almost every college in the U.S.