ACT

Magic word for Shmoop:​ (all caps)
“TOPAZ”

Most schools accept scores from either, but you may be better suited to one than the other. For example, students who excel in math and science may prefer the ACT, which has more math (including Trigonometry) than the SAT and a section on science reading that the SAT lacks. If you have an impressive vocabulary, the SAT may be a better choice. The ACT stresses grammar more than specific words. The ACT may be better for students who consistently work hard at school because it reflects the high school curriculum and relies less on reasoning. There is good evidence that teens that test well on the SAT also usually do well on the ACT, but not vice versa. Do a test run online and gauge the scores and comfort level, then decide.