Choosing Between the ACT and SAT: A Crucial Decision for Caribbean Students

In the vibrant landscape of Jamaican education, families often find themselves at a crossroads when preparing for international university admissions. The question looms large: Should we choose the ACT or the SAT? While both tests are accepted by nearly all accredited U.S. universities, a deeper look reveals that the ACT is often the better fit for Caribbean students, especially those with a strong background in science.

Real Stories, Real Success

Take Dr. Shauna Miller, for instance. A standout from St. Hugh’s High School, she consistently scored a perfect 1600 on SAT mock exams. Unfortunately, illness struck on her test day. Her story highlights the potential of Jamaican students when given the right tools and preparation. Then there’s Romero Heyman from Manchester High School, who scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT, and Johan Gordon from Campion College, who made history with a perfect ACT score in Jamaica. These aren’t just lucky breaks; they’re the result of tailored preparation aligned with the right exam.

Why the ACT?

1. Curriculum Alignment: The ACT tests what students actually learn. With sections on English, mathematics, reading, and science reasoning, it reflects the analytical skills taught in CSEC and CAPE syllabi. The science reasoning section, unique to the ACT, allows students to showcase their ability to interpret data and analyze scientific problems—skills that Caribbean students excel in.

2. Stability and Popularity: The ACT has maintained a consistent structure over the years, unlike the SAT, which has undergone numerous changes. In 2023, 1.9 million students took the ACT compared to 1.7 million for the SAT. This growing popularity among applicants to selective colleges indicates that the ACT is becoming the preferred choice.

3. Tailored for Jamaican Students: Time and again, students perform better on the ACT. Its mathematics section covers real-world problem-solving and trigonometry, aligning perfectly with local educational standards. The reading and English sections are straightforward, unlike the SAT’s often confusing vocabulary.

The Irony of Accessibility

Here’s the kicker: despite being the better option, the ACT is not offered in Jamaica. Since the pandemic, local testing centers have not reopened, forcing students to travel to places like Barbados or Trinidad for the exam. This creates an inequitable situation where wealthier families can afford to give their children the best opportunities, while others are left with the SAT, which may not reflect their true potential.

Proven Success Stories

At A-QuEST, we’ve seen the fruits of ACT preparation firsthand. With 11 Rhodes Scholars and numerous students entering prestigious institutions like Stanford and Yale, the ACT has proven to be a reliable predictor of success. It measures readiness holistically, rewarding structured thinking and real learning rather than test-taking tricks.

What Can Be Done?

In the short term, families should:

• Start ACT prep early, especially in 5th and 6th form.
• Consult guidance counselors about ACT-friendly preparation plans.
• Reach out to programs like A-QuEST for coaching and travel coordination.
• Budget for overseas testing, as even one attempt can make a difference.

Long-term, we need policymakers and educators to act. Bringing the ACT back to Jamaican soil is essential for leveling the playing field for all students.

A Call to Action

This isn’t just about choosing a test; it’s about equity and confidence in our students’ strengths. Jamaica produces brilliant minds, and we must ensure future scholars have the platform to shine. The ACT is more than a test; it’s a passport to possibility. Are we ready to demand its return and prepare our students for success?