Minneapolis, Minnesota – September 02, 2026 – PRESSADVANTAGE –

Smart College has released new guidance for Minnesota families on how students can select the college entrance exam that best matches their academic strengths. The guidance addresses ongoing confusion among parents and students about differences between the Enhanced ACT and the digital SAT, and how those differences affect preparation and testing strategy.

College admissions policies continue to vary. Many institutions remain test-optional, including the University of Minnesota for freshman applicants through the fall 2027 term. Even under test-optional policies, scores can still be considered for admission, scholarships, and placement when families choose to submit them. Selecting the exam that aligns with a student’s skills can therefore remain a practical part of college planning.

The Enhanced ACT is shorter than earlier versions and gives students more time per question. Math items now include four answer choices rather than five. Science is optional in many administrations, and the Composite score is calculated from English, math, and reading. Paper and online formats remain available. The digital SAT is adaptive, with performance on the first module of each section influencing the difficulty of the second module. It consists of Reading and Writing and Math sections delivered through the Bluebook testing application.

“Families often assume one exam is universally better, but the better choice depends on how a student reads, reasons through math, and manages time,” said Kristin Edwards, Founder of Smart College. “A student who prefers a more straightforward pacing structure and optional science may approach the ACT differently than a student who performs well on an adaptive digital format. The goal is to match the test to the student’s strengths rather than defaulting to the exam a sibling or classmate took.”

Smart College recommends that students complete a baseline practice test for each exam under timed, proctored conditions before committing to a primary test. Side-by-side comparison of section performance, pacing, and comfort with format often clarifies which exam is the stronger fit. The company administers free full-length proctored practice tests each month at its Edina office for current clients and prospective clients in grades eight through twelve. Score reports and projected performance insights are returned within 24 hours, giving families timely information for planning.

Instruction at Smart College is delivered by credentialed teachers and content-area specialists with classroom experience. Tutors use practice results to build study plans that address content gaps and test-specific strategies, including pacing on the Enhanced ACT and module strategy on the digital SAT. Flexible service packages and payment plans are structured to accommodate a range of family budgets. Sessions are available through the company’s network, including co-working spaces at The Reserve in Edina, Woodbury, and Roseville.

The guidance also places test selection in the context of a student’s full college timeline. Freshmen and early sophomores generally benefit most from strengthening core coursework. Late sophomores and early juniors are often well positioned for diagnostic testing and initial planning. Juniors typically enter the primary testing window, with time remaining for a second official administration if needed. Seniors have a narrower window and usually focus on targeted review or a final attempt.

This approach is consistent with Smart College’s school-wide partnership with St. Augustine Academy in Inver Grove Heights, which integrates college planning and test preparation beginning in middle school. Early exposure to format differences allows students more time to identify a preferred exam and prepare without last-minute pressure.

“Accurate comparison under realistic conditions is more useful than general advice about which test is easier,” Edwards added. “When students see how they perform on each format, families can make a clearer decision and concentrate preparation where it will have the most effect.”

Smart College’s model is designed to support students across a wide range of academic profiles, from those applying to selective colleges to those who need additional support for high school completion and postsecondary transitions. The company’s structured process covers test selection, applications, financial aid considerations, and planning for life after high school.

As the 2026-2027 school year continues, the updated guidance and monthly practice testing give Minnesota families a practical way to resolve uncertainty about the ACT and SAT and to align preparation with current exam formats.

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For more information about Smart College, contact the company here:

Smart College
Kristin Edwards
651-428-0425
info@smartcollegepros.com

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