Getting a strong SAT or ACT score can open doors to better schools and more scholarship money. Here’s a practical guide for the Class of 2028.
SAT or ACT — Which One?
Both are widely accepted at U.S. colleges. The main differences:
- SAT — 3 hours, Evidence-Based Reading & Writing + Math. Scored 400–1600.
- ACT — 2 hr 55 min, English + Math + Reading + Science. Scored 1–36. Includes a Science section SAT doesn’t have.
Recommendation: Take a free practice test for each and see which feels better. Many students do both.
When to Test
Most students first test in spring of junior year (spring 2027). This leaves time to retest senior year if needed.
Free Prep Resources
- Khan Academy SAT Prep — Official, personalized, completely free. Links directly to your PSAT results for a customized study plan.
- ACT Academy — Free ACT prep from the makers of the test
- College Board Question of the Day — Practice a question daily
Paid Prep (If You Want It)
See our Vendor Directory — Tutoring & Test Prep for options including Kaplan, Princeton Review, and Varsity Tutors.
Score Targets
Research the average SAT/ACT scores at the schools you’re interested in using BigFuture or Niche.com. Aim to be at or above that range.
Good luck, Black Tigers! 🐯