Frequently asked questions

It is better to start preparing for test prep as early as possible! We recommend starting around your freshman - sophomore year, and take at least one test by the end of your sophomore year. Don't underestimate just how busy you will be during your junior year!

The current SAT includes reading, math, writing and language. It’s designed to measure your reasoning skills. The ACT is composed of a total of five sections: mathematics, English, reading, science, and one optional essay. It’s designed to test the knowledge you have built throughout high school. The SAT is often considered to have trickier questions, while the ACT is usually considered more straightforward. However the ACT math section goes up to Pre-Cal, while SAT only goes up to Alg. II. The ACT also has the optional essay section which may be of interest if you are a strong writer and wish to show that your writing skills are college level. The SAT will also be transitioning to a purely digital test as of Spring 2024, so if you will be taking the exams after 2023 your personal comfort level with electronic exams may also be a contributing factor in choosing between the two tests. Ultimately, these differences tend to be subtle, so it is recommended that you take a diagnostic test for the SAT and the ACT and figure out which one suits you better. Both offer unique testing strategies, so many students prefer one over the other. If you’re not sure how to take a diagnostic test, you’re in luck: Berkeley2 Academy offers free diagnostic testing. Contact us t(javascript:void(0))o schedule a time to come in!

Technically, you can take the tests as many as you want. However, it is not recommended that you take the tests more than 3 times. Some colleges allow you to pick and choose which scores you want to send as part of your college application, but some schools will require you to submit all your scores.

A common myth is that certain colleges look more favorably towards SAT or ACT scores. However, all colleges accept BOTH the ACT and the SAT, and have openly stated they do not prefer one test over the other. The SAT and the ACT hold the same weight to colleges. In fact, many students take both tests to see on which one they score the highest. If you do plan to take both, focus on one test at a time or otherwise you will get confused and overwhelmed with all the information.

The optional essay portions of the ACT exams offer colleges more insight into your writing abilities. With the ACT essay you can demonstrate your ability to synthesize others' arguments and produce a new argument of your own. Each of these writing tests may indicate preparedness for college-level writing. Colleges are divided on whether they accept the optional ACT essay, so you should check each of your intended colleges’ requirements in advance. If you are a strong writer, or can write these particular essays well, then you should take the optional essay to provide more data to your colleges about your academic aptitude.

The Preliminary SAT, shortened to PSAT, is a preparatory version of the SAT exam. The PSAT is only a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship, and won't add to your college admission applications. You only take it once a year, and most students take it in school in October during their 10th and 11th grade year. If you score a high score on the 11th grade PSAT, you can become a National Merit Semifinalist and be qualified to receive a National Merit Scholarship. You can view our extensive list of National Merit scholars here.(https://www.berkeley2academy.com/national-merit)