The ACT and SAT are both standardized tests used for college admissions in the U.S., but they have key differences. The ACT consists of 4 sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science (an optional essay portion is offered). The ACT is score between 1-36. The SAT consists of two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math (an optional essay portion is offered also). The SAT is scored between 400-1600. The ACT is more content-based and time-pressured, whereas the SAT emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving skills. Both tests are accepted by most colleges, so choosing the one that aligns the best with your strength is important.

TOEFL, IELTS, and Duolingo are standardized tests that assess an individual's language proficiency across reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. One of the key distinctions among these tests is their scoring method. While Duolingo and TOEFL provide scores in terms of points (with 160 points being the maximum for Duolingo and 120 for TOEFL), IELTS assigns a specific band score (with 9 bands being the maximum) to gauge language proficiency. All three standardized tests remain valid for up to two years. Although TOEFL is the most widely accepted proficiency test by American universities, many institutions accept scores from all three tests. It's advisable to check with your prospective college to determine which test is acceptable and best suited for you.