SAT vs ACT: Which Test is Right for
You?
Many students and parents begin the
college prep process by comparing the ACT and SAT tests. The SAT and ACT generally cover the same topics. Both ACT and
SAT scores are used for college admissions decisions and awarding merit-based
scholarships. Most colleges do not prefer one test over the other.
Compare the
ACT and SAT tests
- ACT includes a Science section
- SAT includes one SAT Math Section on which you may not
use a calculator
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SAT
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ACT
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Why
Take It
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Colleges use SAT scores for
admissions and merit-based scholarships.
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Colleges use ACT scores for
admissions and merit-based scholarships.
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Test
Structure
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- Reading
- Writing & Language
- Math
- Essay (Optional)
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- English
- Math
- Reading
- Science Reasoning
Essay (Optional)
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Length
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- 3 hours (without essay)
- 3 hours, 50 minutes (with essay)
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- 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay)
- 3 hours, 40 minutes (with essay)
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Reading
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5 reading passages
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4 reading passages
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Science
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None
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1 science section testing your
critical thinking skills (not your specific science knowledge)
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Math
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Covers:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra I & II
- Geometry, Trigonometry and Data Analysis
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Covers:
- Arithmetic
- Algebra I & II
- Geometry, Trigonometry, and Probability &
Statistics
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Calculator
Policy
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Some math questions don't allow
you to use a calculator.
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You can use a calculator on all
math questions.
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Essays
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Optional. The essay will test your
comprehension of a source text.
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Optional. The essay will test how
well you evaluate and analyze complex issues.
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How
It's Scored
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Scored on a scale of 400–1600
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Scored on a scale of 1–36
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Should
I Take the ACT or SAT?
Students are increasingly taking both the SAT and ACT . Changes made to the SAT in
2016 have made it easier than ever to prep for both tests concurrently —
and earn competitive scores on both!
The best way to decide if taking the SAT, ACT, or both tests is right for you
is to take a timed full-length practice test of each type.
Since the content and style of the SAT and ACT are very similar, factors like
how you handle time pressure and what types of questions you find most
challenging can help you determine which test is a better fit.