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Which Test is Right for You?

Notice For Juniors and Seniors

SAT and ACT  - Test Optional information for Class of 2022

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many colleges are adjusting their requirements for SAT and ACT scores. The link below contains current information regarding admissions changes for many of the colleges where Liberty students apply. We will update this information as colleges respond to our request for information.

SAT/ACT Test Optional Info by College

Which Test is Right for You

SAT or ACT?

Do you know which test is right for you?

Colleges accept both tests equally, so the choice is up to you! Here's what you need to compare the exams.

 

SAT

ACT

  The SAT is more of an aptitude test, testing reasoning and verbal abilities. The ACT is an achievement test, measuring what a student has learned in school.
Why Take It Colleges use SAT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships. Colleges use ACT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships.
Test Structure
  • Math
  • Reading
  • Writing and Language
  • Essay (optional)
  • Math
  • Reading
  • English
  • Science
  • Essay (optional)
Length
  • 3 hours (without essay)
  • 3 hours, 50 minutes (with essay)
  • 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay)
  • 3 hours, 40 minutes (with essay)
Reading 5 reading passages 4 reading passages
Science None 1 science section testing your critical thinking skills (not your specific science knowledge)
Math Covers:
  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra I & II
  • Geometry, Trigonometry and Data Analysis
Covers:
  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra I & II
  • Geometry and Trigonometry
Tools Some math questions don't allow you to use a calculator. You can use a calculator on all math questions.
Essays Optional. The essay will test your comprehension of a source text. Optional. The essay will test how well you evaluate and analyze complex issues.
How It's Scored Scored on a scale of 400–1600 Scored on a scale of 1–36
How to Register www.collegeboard.com www.act.org