Are you thinking about studying abroad in the United States? If so, you’ll likely have to take the ACT or SAT. Most US colleges and universities require students to take one of these standardized tests when applying. Both tests measure a student’s readiness for college or university, and provide a common data point that academic institutions can use to compare all applicants. Today, we’re breaking down the differences between the ACT and SAT and how to choose the right one for you!
ACT and SAT Overview
It’s common for students to begin preparing by comparing the ACT and SAT tests. Generally, the ACT and SAT cover the same topics. American academic institutions use them to award merit-based scholarships and make admissions decisions. Most institutions accept both kinds of test results, and neither test is necessarily harder than the other. But some students tend to excel on the ACT, while others ace the SAT. To learn more about which one might be a better fit for you, keep reading!
If required, your ACT or SAT scores are a major component of your college applications. They’re both pencil-and-paper, multiple-choice tests. The ACT is created and administered by ACT, the organization of the same name. The SAT is created and administered by the College Board. College admissions officers will review your standardized test scores in combination with your:
- High school GPA
- Letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors
- Classes you took in high school
- Extracurricular activities
- Personal essays
- Admissions interviews
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ACT vs. SAT
To give you a better idea of what each test entails, here’s a breakdown of each by category.
ACT
Test Structure: You’ll complete sections in English, Math, Reading, and Science Reasoning. There is also an optional Essay section. You may take the optional essay section if you’re confident in your comprehension and writing skills and believe it will increase your overall score. Your target colleges and universities may require it, though, so check to see if the ones on your list do.
Length: 2 hours and 55 minutes (without essay), or 3 hours and 40 minutes (with essay).
Reading: Four reading passages.
Science: One science section that tests your critical thinking skills (not specific science knowledge).
Math: Arithmetic, Algebra I and II, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Probability and Statistics.
Calculator Policy: You may use a calculator for all math questions.
Essays: Optional. The essay will test how well you evaluate and analyze complex issues.
How it’s Scored: The ACT uses a scale of 1–36. The current average score is 21. What’s considered a “good” ACT score depends on which academic institution you’re considering. For example, a score of 23 is above the national average and will make you a competitive applicant at many institutions—but it may rank lower than what more selective institutions may require.
SAT
Test Structure: You’ll complete sections in Reading, Math, and Writing and Language.
Length: Three hours.
Reading: Five reading passages.
Science: None.
Math: Arithmetic, Algebra I and II, Geometry, Trigonometry, and Data Analysis.
Calculator Policy: Some math questions don’t allow you to use a calculator.
Essays: None.
How it’s Scored: The SAT uses a scale of 400–1600. The average SAT composite score is 1060. But it’s important to note that the test is deliberately designed so that the mean (average) score stays at around 1000 on the 1600-point scale. Ensure you pay attention to your percentile ranking as well—it will tell you how you scored compared to other students.
Should I Take the ACT, SAT, or Both?
More and more students are taking both the ACT and SAT, regardless of which institution they’re applying to requires. With more competition for admission, students are taking both tests in hopes of standing out from the high number of applicants. Additionally, many expect to score higher on one than the other, and can use their better result to apply.
A great way to decide if you should take the ACT, SAT, or both tests is to take a timed full-length practice test of each type. To start, you can download an official ACT practice test here, and find official SAT practice tests here.
Because the style and content of the ACT and SAT are very similar, asking yourself these questions can help you decide which test is a better fit:
- Which types of questions do you find most difficult?
- How do you handle the pressure of a timed exam?
- Do you excel in science?
- Are you comfortable doing math without a calculator?
- Are you a persuasive essay writer?
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Now that you understand the differences between the ACT and SAT exams, start researching practice tests to set you up for success on testing day.
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