SAT or ACT: Which Exam Should I Choose? 🤔

When it comes to standardized testing, choosing between the SAT and ACT can feel like a big decision. This guide breaks down the key differences so you can figure out which test plays to your strengths (or whether to take both).

While many colleges have gone test-optional in recent years, having a solid score can still strengthen your application and open doors to scholarships. Check out our article on whether the SAT is worth it here. The same reasoning generally applies to the ACT as well.

📘 What is the SAT?

The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) was developed by College Board in 1926 to measure college readiness. The test is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, split between two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (800 points) and Math (800 points).

Important update: The SAT transitioned to a fully digital format in 2024. The digital SAT is shorter (about 2 hours 14 minutes), uses an adaptive testing format where the difficulty of the second module adjusts based on your performance on the first, and allows a calculator on the entire math section. The information below reflects the current digital SAT where noted, but some structural comparisons with the ACT remain useful for deciding which test suits you.

Over 1.7 million students from the Class of 2022 took the test.

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📕 What is the ACT?

The ACT (American College Test) was created in 1959 and is administered by the nonprofit organization ACT. The maximum score is 36. There are four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Your composite score is the average of your four section scores (each rated 1 to 36), rounded to the nearest whole number.

Approximately 1.3 million students from the Class of 2022 took the ACT.

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🤷 SAT vs. ACT: What's the Difference?

The SAT and the ACT cover similar ground, but they differ in structure, pacing, and content emphasis. Neither test is inherently harder. The right choice depends on where your strengths lie.

📋 Other Major Differences

⏳ Time per Question

You generally get more time per question on the SAT than the ACT. The digital SAT gives you roughly 1.5 minutes per math question, while the ACT gives you about 1 minute. If you tend to work carefully and need time to think through problems, the SAT's pacing may suit you better. If you're confident moving quickly, the ACT could be a good fit. ACT questions also tend to be more straightforward, so even though you're moving faster, each question often requires less deliberation.

🔬 Science Section

The ACT has a dedicated Science section, but don't panic if science isn't your favorite subject. It mostly tests your ability to read graphs, interpret data, and analyze experimental setups. Only a handful of questions require outside science knowledge. The SAT doesn't have a separate science section, but you'll encounter science-related passages and data interpretation in the Reading and Writing section.

#️⃣ Question Format

On the digital SAT, both the Reading and Writing section and the Math section are entirely multiple choice with four answer options (A-D). The old paper SAT had student-produced response ("grid-in") questions, but the digital SAT has eliminated those. The ACT math section gives you five choices (A-E) per question. More options can make guessing slightly harder, but the questions themselves tend to be more direct.

🔢 Math Section

The SAT math is heavily algebra-focused, covering linear equations, systems of equations, and quadratics. The ACT math covers a broader range of topics, including more geometry, statistics, and some pre-calculus concepts like logarithms and trigonometric identities.

One thing to keep in mind: the ACT does not provide a reference sheet with geometric formulas, so you'll need to have those memorized. The SAT provides a digital reference sheet with key geometry formulas. If you're strong in algebra but haven't taken pre-calc yet, the SAT is probably the better fit. If you're comfortable with a wider range of math topics, the ACT could work well.

💯 Calculator

Both the digital SAT and the ACT now allow calculator use on the entire math section. The SAT also has a built-in Desmos graphing calculator available on screen, which can be a real advantage if you learn how to use it effectively. On the ACT, you'll need to bring your own approved calculator.

📚 Reading Passages

The reading sections differ in structure. The digital SAT uses shorter, standalone passages (or passage pairs) with one question per passage. This means you're constantly switching topics, but you never have to hold a long passage in your head.

The ACT reading section has four longer passages (fiction, social studies, humanities, and natural sciences) with 10 questions each. You'll need to read and retain more information at once. The ACT science section also includes 6-7 short passages filled with charts and graphs, though these test data analysis rather than reading comprehension.

If you prefer short bursts of reading, the digital SAT's format may feel more manageable. If you're a strong reader who does well with longer texts, the ACT reading section could play to your strengths.

✍️ Optional Essay

The ACT still offers an optional Writing section (a 40-minute essay). The SAT no longer offers an essay. If persuasive writing is a strength you want to showcase, the ACT gives you that opportunity. That said, very few colleges require or even recommend the ACT Writing section anymore, so check the requirements of your target schools before paying extra for it.

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🪄 Test-Optional

Many schools have adopted test-optional policies to make admissions more equitable. This means you won't be penalized for not submitting scores. However, a strong score can still boost your application and help you qualify for merit scholarships. And if your score doesn't turn out the way you hoped, you can simply choose not to send it. There's very little downside to taking a test and having the score available.

💡 Conclusion

Once you identify your strengths, the choice gets a lot clearer. Here's a quick summary to help you decide:

• Consider the SAT if: you're strong in algebra, prefer more time per question, like shorter reading passages, or want a built-in graphing calculator.
• Consider the ACT if: you're comfortable with a wide range of math topics (including geometry and pre-calc), work quickly, and don't mind longer reading passages.

If you truly can't decide, try a full-length practice test for each. Your scores and how you feel taking each test will tell you a lot. Also, check whether your state or school requires a specific test, as some states administer the SAT or ACT to all juniors during the school day.

Good luck with your standardized test prep. If you need guidance, consult your school counselor, and check out Fiveable for study resources for either exam.