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ACT vs. SAT- How to decide which test to take?
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Being admitted to a university in the US often requires taking one or more standardized tests. Several tests are widely recognized and accepted by US colleges and universities, including ACT and SAT. Understanding the differences between these two exams can help students make an informed decision.
ACT vs SAT
- 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
- ACT includes a Science section
- SAT includes one SAT Math Section on which one may not use a calculator
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 • Essay (Optional) | • English • Math • Reading • Science Reasoning • Essay (Optional) |
Length | 3 hours | 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay) 3 hours, 40 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 | Optional. The essay will test how well one evaluates and analyses complex issues. | 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?
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, sitting the ACT may be the better option.
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.
Take both tests
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.
- 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.
- 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.
Scoring scales and ranges
SAT scores range from 400-1600, and ACT composite scores range from 1 to 36.
Test format and sections
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.
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 SAT with essay is 3 hours 50 mins long.Science Section
Maths Section
SAT Structure
- Reading test- 65 minutes for 52 questions
- Writing and language test- 35 minutes for 44 questions
- Math test- 80 minutes for 58 questions
- Essay- (optional)- 50 minutes
Scoring scale
- English- 45 minutes for 75 questions
- Math- 60 minutes for 60 questions
- Reading- 35 minutes for 45 questions
- Science Reasoning- 35 minutes for 40 questions
- Essay- (optional)- 40 minutes
Scoring Scale
ACT vs SAT : Test preparation Tips
- Both the ACT and SAT include line numbers for the reading passages.
- The SAT questions will flow in order, whereas the ACT may ask questions that are out of order when compared to the reading passage.
- Both tests offer four multiple-choice answer options.
- The SAT will include informational graphics such as charts and graphs. The ACT answers will be text-based. However, one passage may contain visual and quantitative elements as well.
- No prior knowledge is necessary for either test.
- The SAT will have one literature-based passage, one history-based passage, one social science-based passage, and two science-based passages. The ACT can have any mix of passage types.
- On the ACT, one will have to answer more reading questions in less time, but they are less intensive than the SAT reading questions.
- The SAT will ask more challenging questions, but there are fewer to answer, and one will have more time to work on them.
- On the ACT, one will retrieve information to answer question
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) | $181.50 | |
The full ACT with writing | $206.50 |
Exam | SAT (International Fee) | |
Without Essay | $103 | |
With Essay | $117 |
For more detailed information on ACT and SAT exams, contact Canam Consultants, the leading overseas study consultants.
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