Myths and facts about ACT

Myth: Colleges prefer the SAT over the ACT (or vice versa).

FACT: Both the ACT and the SAT are universally accepted by most colleges, and admissions officers don’t prefer one test over the other. Still, it may be a smart decision to take both.

Myth: You can’t make big improvements on your ACT score.

FACT: The ACT, just like the SAT, is a coachable test, and with prep you CAN increase your score.

 

Myth: If you hate Science, stay clear of the ACT!

FACT: The ACT Science section tests your ability to read and analyze passages, along with charts, tables, and graphs—not your in-depth knowledge of the nervous system. The content draws from biology, chemistry, physics, and the Earth/space sciences (astronomy, geology, and meteorology). But it’s your reasoning and reading comprehension skills that will help you ace the Science section.

FYI: Charts and graphs also pop up on the SAT, across all sections of the test.

Myth: The ACT Essay is Optional.

FACT: Technically , yes, the ACT Essay is optional. But we recommend you take it. Not all schools require your ACT writing scores, but most do. Plus, taking the initiative to take the writing test looks good on college applications.