All four-year universities accept both the SAT and the ACT. They are given a conversion table that allows them to compare applicant scores fairly. Nationwide, all institutions view PSAT National Merit scholar ratings as criteria for college acceptance and scholarship awards. Students cannot receive National Merit rankings without taking the PSAT and SAT. The SAT is unofficially “preferred” at schools in New York, Massachusetts, California, at Ivy Leagues, and at other high-caliber colleges. Meanwhile, the ACT is a required component of some states’ high school transcript records.
In short, we recommend that every student prepare for and take both the SAT/PSAT and the ACT. Here are the two main reasons why:
New Skill Set: By taking ACT and SAT prep courses, students naturally develop a combined skill set that maximizes potential scores on both tests. Studies, including one that followed a group of students through the preparation and 2014 testing process, indicate that of the students who took only the ACT prep course, 35% scored in the top 3%. On the other hand, of the students that took prep courses for both the SAT and ACT, 65% achieved scores in the top 3%. The students who took courses to prepare for both tests were the ones who achieved the highest scores.
Scholarship Opportunities: The better test results achieved by taking both ACT and SAT prep courses increase scholarship opportunities (not just National Merit Scholarships!).