Should I take the SAT, or apply with only my ACT scores?

Answered

You're in a very strong position — a 36 ACT with an 11 in writing is top-tier and more than sufficient for both admissions and most merit-based scholarships. Here's how I’d break it down for you:

✅ Reasons You Don’t Need the SAT:

36 ACT is perfect – It’s equivalent to a 1570–1600 SAT. There is literally no meaningful advantage to submitting a second perfect score.

Merit scholarships usually accept ACT – Most institutions consider ACT and SAT equally for scholarships. You already have what they’re looking for.

Time + energy trade-off – Prepping for and sitting the SAT takes time you could use for essays, extracurriculars, or just a less stressful senior year.

PSAT ≠ SAT – Your 1520 PSAT is excellent (likely National Merit range), but it’s not necessarily predictive of scoring higher on the SAT. You risk doing slightly worse than expected, which may bother you more than it helps.

🤔 When You Might Consider Taking the SAT:

A specific scholarship requires it – There are a few regional or niche scholarships that may ask for SAT scores only (rare).

State scholarship programs – Some public universities in certain states (like Florida’s Bright Futures) have test-specific requirements.

Personal challenge – If you're the type who’d enjoy seeing if you can crush the SAT too, and won't feel discouraged if you fall short of your PSAT, then go for it.