Key takeaways
Understanding college entrance exams is crucial for high school students planning for their future. This article outlines the main types of admission tests, their differences, and effective preparation strategies to enhance your chances of success.
- The SAT and ACT are the primary standardized tests for college admissions, with most U.S. colleges accepting both equally (College Board, 2021).
- Starting preparation early, ideally during sophomore or junior year, significantly boosts confidence and performance.
- AP exams can enhance college applications and potentially earn college credit, with scores of 4 or 5 being particularly beneficial.
- Utilizing professional guidance from experienced instructors can lead to better results and a more structured study plan.
Contents
Planning for college means facing one of the most common challenges high schoolers encounter—admission tests. Whether you’re aiming for a top-tier university or just want to keep your options open, understanding your entrance exam choices (and how to prepare) is key.
What Are the Main Types of College Admission Tests?
While SAT and ACT dominate the conversation, there are several standardized exams that can factor into college admissions:
- SAT: Administered by the College Board, measures reading, writing, and math skills
- ACT: Includes English, math, reading, science, and an optional essay
- AP Exams: Assess mastery of college-level material; scored 1-5
- IB Exams: Part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program
- TOEFL / IELTS: For non-native English speakers applying to U.S. colleges
Most U.S. colleges accept both the SAT and ACT equally—but specific schools may have preferences or superscoring policies.
SAT vs. ACT: Key Differences and Similarities
Both tests check if you’re ready for college, but they are different in how they look and what’s on them:
| Feature | SAT | ACT |
| Sections | Reading & Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Science |
| Scoring | 400-1600 | 1-36 (average of 4 sections) |
| Essay | Discontinued | Optional (still offered) |
| Science | Not separate | Has a dedicated section |
| Calculator Use | Limited | Allowed on entire Math section |
Are AP Exams and Subject Tests Still Relevant?
Subject Tests were discontinued by the College Board in 2021. However, AP exams remain relevant. Scoring well on an AP (typically a 4 or 5) can:
- Boost your college application
- Earn you college credit or advanced placement
- Show academic rigor
AP scores aren’t usually required, but they can support your candidacy, especially at selective institutions.
How to Prepare Effectively for College Entrance Exams?
Legacy Online School helps students build the confidence and skills they need to succeed on the SAT® and ACT®. All lessons are delivered live online, with real-time support and feedback from qualified instructors who are fully invested in your progress. If you’re serious about improving your score, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Preparation goes beyond cramming formulas. You need a clear plan:
- Start early: Ideally during sophomore or junior year
- Use official tools like Bluebook™ or ACT Academy
- Track your weak spots—subscores matter more than you think
- Take full tests with a timer to get used to the real exam
How Colleges Use Entrance Exam Scores in Admissions?
Test scores still matter for many colleges. They help schools compare students, even if tests are optional. GPA can show how well a student performed within their environment—but standardized test scores show how they perform on a national scale.
Top colleges often look at test scores first to narrow down the list. A high score can help if your application is on the edge.
Scores also matter for scholarships, honors programs, and showing how strong your application is. That’s why many students still send their scores, even when it’s optional. And when schools report their median scores for rankings or marketing, they’re often counting only the scores they receive—so there’s still incentive for colleges to accept high-scoring students.
What to Expect on College Entrance Exam Day?
Here’s a quick breakdown of what a typical SAT or ACT test day looks like:
| Time | What Happens? |
| 7:45-8:00 a.m. | Arrival and check-in |
| 8:00-8:30 a.m. | Seating, instructions, and test setup |
| 8:30-10:00 a.m. | First sections begin (Reading/Writing) |
| 10:00-10:10 a.m. | Scheduled break |
| 10:10-11:30 a.m. | Math sections / Science (ACT) |
| 11:30-12:00 p.m. | (Optional Essay, if applicable) |
The digital SAT now uses Bluebook software and features adaptive testing, meaning the difficulty of the second module depends on your performance in the first.
When and How Often Should You Take the SAT or ACT?
Most students take their first SAT/ACT in spring of junior year, then retake in the fall if needed. Here’s why:
- Colleges consider your highest scores
- Superscoring allows you to combine best section scores from different test dates
- Early testing gives you time to shift strategies
“I took the SAT four times, I ended with a 1490 superscore. As long as you can show an increase in your scores and not take it every single opportunity, I think it would be ok”
– u/Radiant_Librarian_59, Reddit
Top Tips from Our Expert
- Pick the test that fits you best—don’t choose the SAT just because more people know it
- Use professional help from Legacy Online School’s teachers to achieve your best results
- Practice at least 25 minutes a day
- Don’t neglect logistics: a smooth test day starts the night before
Maya Robinson, AP Program Advisor at Legacy Online School
Sources: College Board, ACT, Reddit
