Key Takeaways
- Colleges don’t favor the SAT over the ACT or vice versa. The most important factor is the score of the test you take.
- States, however, do tend to have regional testing preferences. Some states lean heavily ACT, others lean SAT, and many fall somewhere in between.
- When choosing which entrance exam to take, consider which you’ll likely score better on, or choose to take both if you have the availability.
The ACT and the SAT are the two largest college entrance exams in the country. Certain ACT / SAT scores can qualify students for scholarships and grants. Most colleges require students to submit their scores of one or the other in order to apply. There are a ton of interesting statistics about the entrance exam–like, did you know that more students take the ACT vs SAT? Or that, on average, Harvard students are ranked in the 99th percentile for both tests? Or, that there’s a different standardized testing preference on a state by state basis? Check out these fun stats.
Colleges don’t prefer one over the other
Students take the ACT more commonly, but colleges don’t really prefer one over the other. What they care about most is the score you submit. That’s why students should focus on the test they’re most likely to perform best on or consider taking both.
But US states do
Different regions of the United States report varying levels of state preference on the tests. Universities and colleges report to the government about the percentage of students who applied with either ACT or SAT scores. So we took a look at the stats.
By examining the percentage of ACT-reported scores per state, we can see the more commonly taken test within that state (though it is important to note that just because a student reported an ACT score, doesn’t mean that they did not also take the SAT).
Test preferences vary widely by state. Wisconsin is strongly ACT-focused, with 93% of students taking it. Illinois, by contrast, favors the SAT: only 18% take the ACT, while 96% take the SAT. Many states fall somewhere in between, with students split across both exams.
Infographic
Here’s a state-by-state look at testing preferences.
Important infographic insights
- Colleges genuinely don’t favor one test over the other.
The long-standing “SAT for elite schools” idea just isn’t true. Admissions teams view both exams as equally valid. - State preferences vary more than you might expect.
Some states lean heavily ACT, others lean SAT, and many fall somewhere in between. It’s about regional testing habits, not quality. - Your state’s trend reflects access, not your potential.
School-day testing options, local policies, and prep resources shape which exam students take, not academic strength. - You can succeed with either test.
Colleges evaluate the score you submit. ACT or SAT, both open the same doors. - Knowing your state’s pattern can help you plan confidently.
It can guide which test might be easier to access or prep for, but the best choice will always be the one that aligns with your strengths.
Metrics that matter for admission
- GPA: Your strongest long-term indicator of academic success.
- Course rigor: Challenging classes (AP/IB/Honors) show you’re ready for college-level work.
- Test scores: ACT/SAT scores add helpful context when you submit them, but they aren’t everything.
- Extracurricular impact: Depth, leadership, and consistency matter more than doing a little of everything.
- Essays: Your chance to let your voice, values, and story stand out.
- Recommendations: Teachers’ perspectives on your character and work habits.
- Context: Your achievements are evaluated in light of your opportunities and circumstances.
Testing policies
Standardized testing policies vary by state and can change over time. Some states offer the ACT or SAT to all juniors as part of statewide college‑readiness programs, while in others, testing is entirely optional and up to families or schools. Policies can shift as states update graduation requirements, academic standards, or college-readiness initiatives. Staying in touch with your school or state education department is the best way to stay informed and plan ahead.
Average scores at a glance
- SAT: The national average total score is around 1050 (out of 1600) – with roughly 529 on the Evidence‑Based Reading & Writing (ERW) and 521 on Math.
- ACT: The national average composite score is about 19.4 (out of 36).
What these numbers mean in simple terms:
- Scoring near the national average puts you roughly in the middle of test‑takers nationwide.
- Colleges may see higher scores as more competitive, but many also weigh GPA, coursework, essays, and activities alongside test scores.
- Because average scores can shift slightly from year to year, it’s more helpful to focus on improving your personal best rather than “beating the average.”
Bottom line
Where you live may influence which tests are common but it doesn’t limit what you can achieve. With the right exam and preparation, you have the opportunity to shine on the path that fits you best.
Have you received your ACT or SAT scores yet? If so, use them on College Raptor to see how they affect your admission odds at the schools you’re applying to!
