Must we take both the SAT and ACT?

Hey everyone. So I'm trying to map out my standardized testing schedule and I'm wondering if I have to take both the SAT and ACT, or if just taking one of them is enough for college admissions. Any advice would be appreciated!

Taking both the SAT and ACT is not necessary for most college admissions. While some students choose to take both to see which test they excel at, you can certainly choose one and focus your efforts on it. Colleges accept either the SAT or ACT, and they typically don't have a preference for one test over the other.

Before deciding which test to take, you might want to research the differences in test format, content, and timing to determine which test suits your strengths. For instance, the ACT includes a science section, while the SAT does not. Additionally, the SAT has more emphasis on vocabulary and reading comprehension, while the ACT leans more towards math and problem-solving skills.

You can also take a practice test for both the SAT and ACT to see which one you perform better on or feel more comfortable with. Remember to check the testing requirements and policies of the colleges you're interested in applying to, as some may require specific tests or have unique testing policies.

Lastly, keep in mind that some colleges have adopted test-optional policies, meaning submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required. You can choose to apply without test scores at these schools, but if you believe your test scores will strengthen your application, it's still a good idea to take either the SAT or ACT.