As you prepare for the ACT® Test and SAT® Test and look ahead to college, you may ask, "How are the ACT® and SAT® Tests different?" And how should you choose which test to take?
The ACT® Test
This test includes three required sections (English, Math, Reading) and one optional section (Science) consisting of 131 questions and a total length of 2 hours, 5 minutes (without the optional Science section). Composite scores range from 1 to 36, with writing scores from 2 to 12. If students sign up for the optional writing exam, a five-minute break is given after science, prior to the 40-minute writing exam.
- English (35 min)
- Math (50 min)
- Reading (40 min)
- Science (40 min, optional but recommended)
- Writing (40 min, optional)
The Math section on the ACT® Test covers a wide range of math concepts and requires formula memorization. The ACT® Test emphasizes algebra skills, and all questions are multiple choice. On the ACT® Test, math is 33% of your score. On the SAT® Test, math is 50% of your score.
The SAT® Test
The new Digital SAT® Test has two sections consisting of 124 total questions and a total length of 134 minutes, not including a 10-minute break between sessions. Composite scores range from 400 to 1600. The content is generally more challenging than that on the ACT® Test, but more time is given per question.
- Reading & Writing (two 32-minute modules, total 64 minutes)
- Math (two 35-minute modules, total 70 minutes)
The Bluebook app includes a built-in calculator, or you can still choose to bring your own from an approved list. Most (approximately 75%) questions are multiple-choice, but for some questions, you'll need to provide a specific answer. These student-produced response (SPR) format questions may have multiple correct responses, but you'll only provide one answer. Questions measure your ability to apply essential math concepts, and about 30% of questions ask you to evaluate an in-context (worded) scenario and determine how to apply your math skills to find the answer. Each question covers one of four content areas:
There is no Science section on the SAT® Test.
You can also download this infographic for a side-by-side comparison.
Which test is better: the ACT® Test or the SAT® Test?
Knowing the differences is the first step. But which test is better? Neither one. It all depends on you and how you think. If time permits, the best option is to take them both, the SAT® Test once and the ACT® Test once. Then focus your study efforts on the higher-scoring test, and take that one three more times.
While some states mandate that their juniors take either the ACT® Test or the SAT® Test, all colleges accept either exam for admissions. In most cases, it makes sense to take both the ACT® Test and the SAT® Test. The SAT® Test allows more time per question, which may help slower readers or those who tend to panic with time limits. The ACT® Test's toughest questions are often less difficult than the SAT® Test's toughest questions. Consider which of these differences best match your overall skill set, and after taking each test once, decide which feels right to you.
When should I take the ACT® Test or SAT® Test?
Take a look at the coming year’s test dates and decide what fits best with your academic (AP, honors) and extracurricular activities. Many states and school districts offer a spring test date during school. For some students, the June or July tests are best because of fewer conflicts with school activities and more time to focus on test preparation. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors should develop a game plan. Often, ambitious students are wise to try their first ACT® Test or SAT® Test in the summer after sophomore year and ideally take either test twice junior spring and twice senior fall. Give yourself time to retake the test. A difference of a few points can make a big difference in scholarship dollars!
