• Study Abroad

ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?

2268 Reads
3 min Read

By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Apr 14,2025 01:46 PM IST

ACT and SAT exams assess students across the same areas, which are reading, math, and writing. However, they differ based on scoring, format, and content.
The ACT exam is conducted seven times a year, while the SAT exam takes place eight times a year.
Both ACT and SAT help to get into top colleges and universities in the USA, but which one is right? Find out in this blog.

Many colleges and universities require students to submit scores from the SAT or ACT- both recognized standardized exams as part of the admission process. Each test is unique regarding subjects covered, structure and scoring scales. However, both are used to measure students’ proficiency, knowledge and skills in core areas such as reading, writing and math.

This blog will help in understanding the fundamental components of each standardized test and the key differences between the ACT and SAT.

What is ACT?

ACT, short for American College Testing, is a standard exam for international students to study at American universities and colleges. It has five sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing (optional). It scores candidates on a scale of 1 to 36. Just like ACT, there is one more exam that US universities use to give admission to international students, which is the SAT.

What is SAT?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is another standard exam used by universities and colleges in the USA to provide admission to international students. It measures candidates’ skills across three areas: Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. It’s a computer-based, multiple-choice test. Candidates are scored out of 1600, with each section (Reading & Writing, Mathematics) having a weightage of 800 points.

ACT vs SAT

Many students dream of pursuing their higher education in the US and hence, a thorough research on how one can apply for their dream university in the US plays a vital role.

The ACT and the SAT are both standardized tests used for admissions in the US universities and colleges.
They are designed to measure a student’s readiness for college-level coursework. While both tests serve the same purpose, there are some differences in their structure and content.
The SAT tends to focus more on grammar and punctuation. The math sections of both tests cover similar material, but the SAT includes more advanced topics such as trigonometry and higher-level algebra.

Comparison of the ACT and SAT Tests

Here are the key differences between an ACT and SAT exam:

	SAT	ACT
Why take it	Colleges use SAT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships.	Colleges use ACT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships.
Test Structure	• Reading • Writing and Language • Math	• English • Math • Reading • Science Reasoning • Essay (Optional)
Length	3 hours	2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay) 3 hours, 35 minutes (with essay)
Reading	5 reading passages	4 reading passages
Science	None	1 science section testing one’s critical thinking skills (not one’s specific science knowledge)- STEM preferred
Math	Covers: • Arithmetic • Algebra I and II • Geometry, Trigonometry and Data Analysis	Covers: • Arithmetic • Algebra I and II • Geometry, Trigonometry, and Probability and Statistics
Calculator Policy	Some math questions don’t allow one to use a calculator	One can use a calculator on all math questions
Essays	No essay	Optional. The essay will test how well one evaluates and analyses complex issues.
How its scored	Scored on a scale of 400-1600	Scored on a scale of 1-36

ACT vs SAT : Should one take the ACT or SAT?

It has become an ambition to study in the USA for Indian students and aim for better future career prospects. If both tests are equally challenging, which one should the student take? Students should first evaluate where their natural abilities lie. In general, students who enjoy writing, literature, and verbal communication tend to prefer the ACT, while those with a mathematical mind prefer the SAT.

1. Strong Math Skills

The ACT only has a calculator section that accounts for about 25% of the overall score. If math is not one’s strong point, taking the ACT may be a better option.

2. Practice Both Tests

Students can practice both tests and try taking a practice test for each. Compare scores for SAT and ACT and also analyse how they felt about the questions and which one felt easier for them.

3. Take Both Tests

There’s nothing wrong with taking both tests. While this means one has to study for both tests, it also means that one can submit their best score. Although they can take the tests more than once, universities discourage taking the test more than three times.

ACT vs SAT : How are they similar?

The ACT and SAT share several similarities. Colleges and universities often accept both exams as part of their admission processes and to determine scholarship awards for incoming students. Here are some similarities between the ACT and the SAT exams:

1. Same Format: Both the ACT and SAT evaluate similar topics, including reading, writing and mathematics. On both tests, the reading, writing and language sections are entirely passage-based. These sections measure student’s proficiency in key areas that help determine college readiness.

2. No Negative Marking: Neither exam penalizes students for incorrect or blank answers. Both award points for correct answers.

How are they different?

Although the SAT and ACT share many similarities, some key distinctions are worth noting. Below are some key differences between the two tests.

1. Scoring scales and ranges

SAT scores range from 400-1600, and ACT composite scores range from 1 to 36.

2. Test format and sections

The SAT includes reading, writing and language, math (with calculator) and math (no calculator). The ACT includes English, math, reading and science.

3. Calculator rules

The SAT includes a section in which the use of calculators is not allowed. ACT test-takers can use a calculator for all math questions.

4. Test Length and Number of Questions

The SAT is three hours long. The ACT is two hours and 55 minutes without the essay section, with the essay, it is three hours and 35 minutes long, while the SAT is without the essay with a duration of 2 hours and 14 minutes.

5. Science Section

Unlike the ACT, the SAT does not have a dedicated science section but includes science questions within the maths section.

6. Maths Section

Both tests cover arithmetic, algebra I and II, geometry and trigonometry, but the SAT also covers data analysis, while the ACT covers probability and statistics.

SAT Structure

Reading and Writing - 64 minutes for 54 questions
Math test- 70 minutes for 44 questions

Scoring Scale

The highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.

ACT Structure

The ACT is composed of four primary tests and an optional essay section.

English- 45 minutes for 75 questions
Math- 60 minutes for 60 questions
Reading- 35 minutes for 40 questions
Science Reasoning- 35 minutes for 40 questions
Essay- (optional)- 40 minutes

Scoring Scale

The number of questions answered correctly is converted to a score of 1 to 36 for each of the four tests. The highest score one can achieve on the ACT is 36. However, the average test score was 19.8. No points are deducted for incorrect answers, and there’s no penalty for guessing.

ACT vs SAT : Test Preparation Tips

Here are the best tips to prepare for both the ACT and SAT exams:

1. Start early to get an advantage over competitors.

2. Take practice tests for both exams to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

3. Use online preparation resources like test prep books, YouTube videos, and AI tools.

4. Learn to manage your time efficiently so you can review answers in the end.

5. Study strictly during the decided time and take breaks to refresh.

ACT vs SAT Exam Fee

In addition to the differences in format and content, there are also important distinctions between the fees associated with the SAT and ACT exams.

Exam Fee	ACT (International fee )
The full ACT (no writing)	$186.50
The full ACT with writing	$211.50

Exam	SAT (International Fee)
Without Essay	$103

For more detailed information on ACT and SAT exams, contact Canam Consultants, the leading overseas study consultants in India.

Conclusion

The key to achieving success in the SAT or ACT is preparation. If one takes necessary steps to prepare for the tests, understand each test’s objective, and choose the one that matches one’s learning and test style, one has the best chance of succeeding. Ultimately, the decision between the two exams should be based on individual strengths and preferences. It is recommended that you take both tests and practice tests to determine which one is the better fit. If you still have any doubts, you can connect with expert study abroad consultants.

FAQ

Do Colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?

Most colleges and universities accept both the SAT and ACT and do not prefer one exam to the other.

How does ACT compare to SAT?

The ACT measures achievement related to high school curricula, while the SAT measures general verbal and quantitative reasoning.

How many SAT and ACT attempts are allowed?

Students can take the SAT and ACT exams as often as they want. SAT is administered seven times a year in India.

How much does the SAT and ACT cost in India?

The SAT exam fee is $111 (without essay), including a non-US regional fee. The ACT exam fee is $186.50 (without writing) and 211.50 (with writing).

What is the age limit for SAT and ACT in India?

There is no age limit set by the College Board to take the SAT and ACT exams.

Which is better, SAT or ACT exam?

Both the SAT and ACT exams have a similar format. However, the SAT exam has more advanced maths topics.

Is the SAT harder than the ACT?

Both the SAT and ACT exams are the same, as universities and colleges in the USA accept them. So neither of them is harder than the other.

Get great articles direct to your inbox

The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.

Popular Universities to Study Abroad

World class education waiting for you.

Dimensions International College - Holland Village Campus

Central Region, Singapore • 38 Programmes

Tuition Fee : SGD 0-0 / year

Coquitlam College

British Columbia, Canada • 3 Programmes

Tuition Fee : CAD 18300-18500 / year

Shorelight Group - Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma, USA • 73 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 17500-31000 / year

University of Buckingham

England, UK • 39 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 11000-23000 / year

Shorelight Group - The University of Texas at San Antonio

Texas, USA • 112 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 23000-23300 / year

Northumbria University - London Campus

England, UK • 45 Programmes

Tuition Fee : GBP 16000-17000 / year

Western Sydney University - Campbelltown Campus

New South Wales, Australia • 199 Programmes

Tuition Fee : AUD 30500-37500 / year

Shorelight Group - The University of Utah

Utah, USA • 112 Programmes

Tuition Fee : USD 32000-35000 / year

View All Universities

Latest at CANAM

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

The International Education Fair

Study in Canada, UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Dubai, Singapore, Germany, Ireland, France

New Delhi • 11:00AM

In-Person Event

University Visits - Murdoch University

Study in Dubai • University Visit

Chandigarh • 02:30PM

In-Person Event

Navitas - UK, Canada, Australia

Study in Canada, UK, Australia • University Visit

Bangalore • 12:00PM

In-Person Event

Top countries destinations

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland
Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland
Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales
Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria
Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia
Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland
La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria
LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland
Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland
Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland
Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay
Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland
Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland
Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland
New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland
The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

Kent state university Ohio
San Jose State University California
Wright State University Ohio
Clark University Massachusetts
Rowan University New Jersey
Arkansas State University Arkansas
University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois
University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Blogs and Articles

Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.

Top scholarships for Indian students to study in the Canada

Beginning the journey of higher education, many bright minds from India set their sights on Canada—a land of academic promise and cultural diversity...

Updated on • Apr 28,2025 12:50 PM IST • Scholarships

MBA Finance in Australia: Universities, Eligibility, Scholarships and Job Opportunities

MBA in Finance in Australia is a 1.5 to 2-year long program offered at multiple institutes across the states of Australia. The program takes the stude...

Updated on • Apr 28,2025 12:46 PM IST • Australia

GMAT vs GRE : Key differences between the tests

The pursuit of a master's degree is an exciting journey, but this path comes with many other difficult choices to be made. One of those choices is sel...

Updated on • Apr 28,2025 12:40 PM IST • Education

Facts to Know Before Studying in Australia

When you decide to pursue your studies in Australia, there are so many things that you should know before actually moving to the country. Kn...

Updated on • Apr 28,2025 12:19 PM IST • Australia

Countries to study MBA abroad in 2024 : Eligibility, Fees, Exams for Indian Students

For ambitious Indian students, an MBA abroad isn't just a degree, it's a way to a global career. MBA is a popular course in the modern world as it ope...

Updated on • Apr 28,2025 12:16 PM IST • Study Abroad

Bachelor's Degrees in the UK- Universities, Courses, Eligibility, and Admission Process

Higher education in the UK is sought after not only by residents of the UK but people around the world. In the UK, the first degree is a bachelor’s ...

Updated on • Apr 28,2025 11:49 AM IST • study in the UK

A Guide to calculating CGPA to percentage to study abroad

Assessing one’s academic performance is essential for determining the future course of action. One of the primary reasons to measure this performanc...

Updated on • Apr 26,2025 03:47 PM IST • Study Abroad

SAT Exam 2025: Dates, Registration, Eligibility, and Preparation Tips

Are you dreaming of studying at the top universities in the USA? If yes, then you should definitely know about one important exam, which is the SAT. I...

Updated on • Apr 25,2025 10:39 AM IST • Education

Ireland Student Visa Process 2025 | Step-by-Step Guide & Requirements

Wondering why to study in Ireland?. We will give you numerous reasons to head in that direction. Apart from being one of the most preferred study dest...

Updated on • Apr 19,2025 03:30 PM IST • Ireland

ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?

Many colleges and universities require students to submit scores from the SAT or ACT- both recognized standardized exams as part of the admission proc...

Updated on • Apr 14,2025 01:46 PM IST • Study Abroad

Five Types of IELTS Essays

Love giving opinions? Welcome to IELTS writing task 2. In this task, you get different types of essays, one of which is an opinion essay. There are fi...

Updated on • Apr 11,2025 05:53 PM IST • IELTS

Backlog Certificate: A Complete Guide

What is a backlog?In an academic context, a "backlog" refers to a course or subject that a student did not pass on their first attempt during their re...

Updated on • Apr 11,2025 01:47 PM IST • Study Abroad Guidance

PTE Score Chart 2025: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation

Most international institutions demand proof of strong English skills, making language proficiency tests a necessity to pursue higher education. While...

Updated on • Apr 09,2025 05:37 PM IST • PTE

Master's in Computer Science in the USA

Silicon Valley in the United States of America has been the global mecca of technology and invention. Every significant technological advancement has ...

Updated on • Apr 08,2025 05:59 PM IST • USA

MBA is one of the most sought-after courses worldwide and consistently tops the list of preferred study abroad courses for Indian students. Now, wheth...

Updated on • Apr 08,2025 04:47 PM IST • Study Abroad

Describe Your Hometown IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic

The IELTS Speaking part 1 topic ‘Describe your Hometown’ is one of the most often asked and easiest topics to answer in an IELTS test. In this top...

Updated on • Apr 07,2025 05:50 PM IST • IELTS

How to Get a Job in USA in 2025

USA is not just a great destination for studying abroad, but also for pursuing a full-time job. That’s why the internet is filled with queries like ...

Updated on • Apr 07,2025 03:19 PM IST • USA

Highest Paying Jobs in the World

With super-advanced technologies like AI entering every field, the assumptions are high that the job roles that exist today won't exist after some yea...

Updated on • Apr 01,2025 05:31 PM IST • Study Abroad

Student Life in Ireland in 2025

“World-Class Standards, Warmest of Welcomes”. The tagline highlights the ideal balance of a high-quality education and a tremendous, hospitable cu...

Updated on • Mar 29,2025 05:50 PM IST • Ireland

Top Public Universities in Germany

It’s a notion that studying abroad is expensive, but there is one country that is breaking this notion. Germany, also known as the land of ideas, of...

Updated on • Mar 26,2025 04:33 PM IST • Germany

ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?

Table of Contents

What is ACT?

What is SAT?

ACT vs SAT

Comparison of the ACT and SAT Tests

ACT vs SAT : Should one take the ACT or SAT?

1. Strong Math Skills

2. Practice Both Tests

3. Take Both Tests

ACT vs SAT : How are they similar?

How are they different?

1. Scoring scales and ranges

2. Test format and sections

3. Calculator rules

4. Test Length and Number of Questions

5. Science Section

6. Maths Section

SAT Structure

Scoring ScaleThe highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.

ACT Structure

Scoring Scale

ACT vs SAT : Test Preparation Tips

ACT vs SAT Exam Fee

Conclusion

FAQ

Events, webinar, college / university visits and more.

Popular university and colleges for Studying abroad.

Bond University Queensland

Central Queensland University - Rockhampton, North Campus Queensland

Charles Sturt University - Wagga Wagga Campus New South Wales

Deakin University - Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus Victoria

Engineering Institute of Technology - Perth campus Western Australia

Griffith University - Nathan Campus Queensland

La Trobe University - Bendigo Campus Victoria

LCI Melbourne - Art & Design School Victoria

University Canada West British Columbia

University of Windsor Ontario

Dalhousie University Nova Scotia

Carleton University Ontario

Cape Breton University Nova Scotia

University of ottawa Ontario

University of saskatchewan Saskatchewan

University of regina Saskatchewan

University of guelph Ontario

Ara Institute of Canterbury - City Campus Southland

Aspire 2 International - Auckland Campus Auckland

Auckland University of Technology - City Campus Auckland

Eastern Institute of Technology - Hawke Bay Campus Hawke's Bay

Manukau Institute of Technology -Manukau Campus Auckland

Massey University - Auckland Campus Auckland

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology (NMIT) - Nelson Campus Southland

New Zealand Institute of Business & Technology (NZIBT) Auckland

The University of Waikato - Hamilton Campus Hamilton

University of Warwick England

De Montfort University England

University of West London England

University of Strathclyde Scotland

Aston University England

University of Bath England

University of Liverpool England

Durham University England

Newcastle University England

Kent state university Ohio

San Jose State University California

Wright State University Ohio

Clark University Massachusetts

Rowan University New Jersey

Arkansas State University Arkansas

University of Wisconsin Milwaukee Wisconsin

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Illinois

University of Findlay Ohio

Popular English Language Proficiency Exams

Scoring Scale

The highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.