SAT & ACT Guidance & Score Comparison Chart

Elizabeth Hartley • February 8, 2026

Register for the SAT on Collegeboard.org
Register for ACT on ACT.org

When to start taking the test: Once a student has completed Algebra 1 & 2 and Geometry, they have covered the math content they will need for the SAT and ACT.

For this reason, we encourage students to take one SAT and ACT soon after they have completed these levels of math, even though their English scores may increase later. Then, compare their scores in the table below and decide which test to focus on retaking in the future. Colleges have no preference on which test the student chooses.

How many times to take the preferred test: It depends on the student and their target score. Most students take it 3-5 times.

SAT score (max 1600) = is the sum of the scores of the Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (max 800) + Math (max 800)

ACT composite score (max 36) is the average of the scores for Math, Reading, & Writing (max 36 for each). If the student also chose to take the Science section, it has its own separate score (max 36).

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Resources to help with AP Physics

By Elizabeth Hartley • February 23, 2026

College Board surveyed AP Physics teachers about what online resources they recommend, and the list below comes directly from their responses. The list also includes teacher descriptions of the resources. This is not a comprehensive list, nor is it an endorsement of any of these resources by the College Board. A Plus Physics Instructional videos for students; online instructions tutorials/resources pages for teachers Free online resource that focuses on problem solving, understanding, and real-world applications. Bozeman Physics Instructional videos for students A collection of videos set in a "classroom" setting that explore topics in AP Physics 1 and 2. Videos cover scenarios as well as FRQ questions and more. Flipping Physics Instructional videos for students A collection of videos set in a "classroom" setting that explore every topic in the AP Physics 1 course. Videos cover scenarios, free-response questions, and more. Hewitt Drew It Instructional videos for students A collection of screencast videos by Paul Hewitt. New Jersey Center for Teaching and Learning Instructional videos for students; instructional videos for teachers; online instructions tutorials/resources pages for teachers Provides slides with embedded formative assessments, homework, labs, and assessments. oPhysics Online simulation/laboratory experiment Interactive simulations in the topics of Kinematics, Forces, Conservation, Waves, Light, E&M, Rotation, Fluids, and Modern. PhET Online simulation/laboratory experiments Offers interactive simulations of physics concepts along with lessons and other resources. The Physics Aviary Online simulation/laboratory experiment Interactive simulations for AP Physics 1 and 2. The Physics Classroom Instructional videos for students and teachers; online instruction tutorials/resource pages for teachers A collection of resources for physics teachers. Resources include videos, lab ideas, worksheets, and concept builders that focus on thinking through physics concepts and relationships. Pivot Interactives Online simulation/laboratory experiment Online high-resolution, high-frame rate video labs demonstrating physics principles. Students use the video player and measurement tool for analysis. Positive Physics Self-directed student practice An organized resource of student practice, including relevant example videos, an online assessment for each topic, and guided practice for all major Physics 1 concepts. Pretty Good Physics Online instructions tutorials/resource pages for teachers An online library of resources from experienced teachers.