I am a senior, and I’m considering taking the October ACT as a last attempt to boost my application. I have a 1360 on the SAT, and from what I’ve heard from other people’s experiences, I can get a 30+ on the ACT equivalently. I’ve heard this can be done minimal studying, which would be great considering how little time I have left. Of course, however, if I do take the ACT, I will still take practice tests and review sections, just not to the extent that I did with the SAT.
So, would it really be worth it for me to take the ACT? Is it really something that would change my application and help my chances at colleges if I got a 30+?
I would plan on submitting both the SAT and ACT score, but not SAT 2s since I scored poorly on those.
Applying to: Northeastern, Boston College, Lehigh, Boston University, TCNJ
A 1360 converts to roughly a 29 on the ACT. However, I know several people who have gotten low SAT and high ACT, and vice versa. Personally I feel the SAT is an easier test (better time:question ratio, easier math section) however some people just do better on the ACT because they excel in analytical skills which are necessary for the science section.
Have you already taken an ACT?
If so, and you are confident that YOU (not based on others input) can get above a 30 I would say definitely go for it, it will help you a lot, as a 30 is like a 1400 on the SAT.
If not, it’s really up to you,
The main difference I would caution you on is reading. On the SAT you can go slow and spend extra time on certain questions but the ACT is a race. You should make sure you are well prepared for this before going in your first time or you will find yourself on question 28 with 3 minutes left (like I did).
if you feel you an score above 30, and have the time and money, I would suggest retaking it… but why not first try a practice test using the real test material