Rising juniors in the Class of 2025 are heading into what will likely be their busiest year of high school yet. In addition to managing the demands of schoolwork and extracurriculars, it’s also time to start thinking about ACT/SAT prep. This year, there is an additional curveball—the SAT is going digital. And while this change may be exciting for some, it also adds a layer of uncertainty for students. So, for many test-takers, the ACT may be the better choice. Here’s why:
1. More resources and materials
The digital SAT is a new test. Not only is it taken on the computer, but the question styles themselves will be different from the old version. So far, The College Board has released four practice tests — meaning that students can only get a limited sense of the digital SAT in advance. On the other hand, choosing the ACT means students will have access to years’ worth of tests to practice from and can head into the ACT feeling confident in their preparation.
2. No technology issues
As anyone who has ever had wifi issues or computer bugs knows, technology is an incredible tool—when it works. And while The College Board will do its best with the digital SAT, there is always the possibility of tech issues on test day. Standardized tests can already be stressful, but opting for the paper ACT removes the variable of technical difficulties during test day.
3. The same test all year
As mentioned above, the digital SAT will differ from the old paper SAT in a number of ways — content, structure, format, etc. In addition, the switch to the digital format will happen mid-year. The last paper SAT will fall in early December 2023, and the digital SAT will begin in March 2024. While the ACT has also announced a limited pilot of a new digital format beginning in December 2023, they have stressed that they are not phasing out the paper version of their test anytime soon, that they want to preserve students’ ability to choose their preferred format, and that their test will not be changing at all in structure or content. So, by choosing the ACT, students ensure that they only need to prepare for one format—with no changes to their prep strategy throughout the year.
The ACT will be a good fit for many students this year; it’s a known quantity as compared to the uncertainty of the SAT. Still not sure? Contact us for more information and to discuss the best options for your child.
