Is the SAT or ACT required for Texas college admission? Here’s how to prep for the exams
The SAT and ACT exams are designed to measure students’ college readiness and academic achievement as they prepare for college.
Here’s what parents and students should know about taking the tests in Texas.
Is the SAT or ACT required for Texas college admission?
While Texas universities do consider ACT and SAT scores, many do not require them for admission.
Six Texas colleges require applicants to submit test scores, 13 colleges recommend submitting test scores and 51 colleges does not require the test scores, but they consider the scores in admission selection process.
About 39% of students submit SAT scores and 21% submit ACT scores.
What are the testing dates for the SAT or ACT?
Visit the College Board website or the ACT website for testing dates, or speak with your school’s counselor, the Texas Education Agency says. You can also call the College Board at 866-392-3017 or ACT, Inc., at 319-337-1270.
How can I register for the SAT or ACT?
Visit the College Board website or the ACT, Inc., website for registration information. There, you’ll also find the code number for your high school, information about score reports and how to interpret your test scores.
What are the average test scores at Texas colleges?
The average SAT score at Texas colleges is 1,106 and the average ACT score is 23, per collegeevaluator.com. The SAT score is made up of Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Mathematics and Essay. And the ACT is made up of English, Mathematics, Reading, Science and Writing.
Rice University has the highest average SAT and ACT scores, with 1,530 and 35. Huston-Tillotson University has the lowest average SAT score of 910 and Sul Ross State University has the lowest ACT score of 16.
SAT and ACT prep tips
Students score better on the SAT when they study and practice before taking the exam. And students who take the SAT a second time usually improve their scores, according to Texas on Course. Khan Academy and the College Board provide practice activities including full-length practice tests and online practice.
ACT results indicate what students have learned throughout high school. The ACT Academy is a free online learning platform designed to help students improve their scores and ACT Online Prep is another online test preparation program.
Alternatively, find out if your school offers an SAT or ACT prep course or find a local prep course that you could take. Also, utilize online study resources such as www.princetonreview.com, kaptest.com and sat.collegeboard.org/practice.
Click here to learn more about the testing process.
