On a resource like “What is the Difference Between the ACT, SAT,and PSAT, and Which Do You Need?” on TheScholorshipSystem.com, you can learn all about the differences between these tests, but here is a brief summary:

The ACT is an exam most colleges use in the admission process. Students usually take the ACT in the Spring of their Junior year, but it can be taken earlier. Some people choose to take the test multiple times to get the best score possible.

The PSAT however, can only be taken once a year. Sophomores and Juniors can take the PSAT in October. This exam gives students the opportunity to qualify for National Merit scholarships and is also referred to as the NMSQT(National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test).

What are the differences between the ACT and the PSAT?

One difference is the amount of time you get to take the test. While the ACT takes 2 hours and 55 minutes, or 3 hours and 35 minutes with the essay portion, the PSAT takes 2 hours and 45 minutes. Another way these tests are different is the scoring scale. The ACT has a scoring range from 1 to 36, but the PSAT/NMSQT is scored in a range from 160 to 760. The most important difference is probably that the ACT is used for college admission, while the PSAT is not.

Is one more important for getting into college? 

As said earlier, only the ACT is an entrance exam, but the PSAT is also useful because it can allow students to qualify for National Merit scholarships.

How can students prepare for the ACT and PSAT?

“Bob Jones offers a test prep resource to our students called On To College.  This is a free tool for BJ students.  It contains courses for ACT Prep, ACT Refresher Course, College & Career Readiness, PreACT Prep, PSAT Prep, SAT Prep, SAT Refresher Course, and Study Skills & Test-Taking Strategies. These courses have practice tests, tutorial videos, testing tips, etc.  Available courses are determined by student grade level.  I highly recommend checking this out for strategies and tips for bumping your test scores.  BJ Students log in with their MCS email and default password is BobJones23!” said Mrs. Carroll.

There are several differences between the ACT and the PSAT, but it’s best to take both tests because they both help students get into colleges.