TEST PREP
ACT OR SAT OR SSAT? OH MY!
Differences
Who takes these tests and what are the differences? Well, the big difference is between the SSAT and the other two, and in so many ways. The SSAT is generally taken by students in 5th to 9th grade applying to boarding school or a summer program. Based on the age range, you can correctly infer that all three levels (Lower, Middle, Upper) of the SSAT are easier than the SAT or ACT, which are taken by students in 10th to 12th grade applying to universities. However, unlike the ACT and SAT, the SSAT does penalize guessing at a quarter point per wrong answer. Comprehensive overview of SSAT
The ACT and SAT are more similar now than ever, but still have their differences. Universities nearly without exception accept both on equal terms. Below is a chart of the main differences between the two. The table is NOT meant to give detailed information about either test. Please see the corresponding page for an in-depth summary of the desired test (SAT & ACT). If you are still unsure after looking at the chart, take our free test to help determine which one is right for you
