The ACT college entrance exam will be taken at Boulder High School on Wednesday, April 27 at 8 am. Students should be prepared and understand the benefits of this test session.  

Juniors take the exam at no cost, but be aware that the writing portion of the exam, which is required by numerous selective colleges, is not included in this testing session.  Students that want to take the ACT with writing must retake the entire test at one of the regular national ACT test sessions. This free testing session may not be offered in the future according to the local Boulder Daily Camera. 

Students often ask whether they should take the ACT or SAT or both.  Since Boulder High School students are required to take the ACT and the Boulder High School curriculum and teaching methods are conducive to students doing well on the ACT, this test is often a good choice.  But here are some differences for your consideration.

The ACT

  • Test includes a science section with reading and graphs  
  • Math section includes a higher level through Algebra 2 and Trigonometry
  • All sections are time intensive and requires a quick pace to finish all questions 
  • No points are deducted for wrong answers
The SAT
  • More difficult questions towards the end of the sections
  • Math has more difficult work problems and can be tricky
  • Large emphasis on vocabulary
  • Critical thinking skills can be very beneficial
  • Partial points are deducted for wrong answers


Timed practice tests can help you determine which of the two tests you prefer.  Pick one of the tests, then focus and prepare.

ACT or SAT?  Two varieties of college tests...