Detailed Comparison: SAT vs ACT
Test Structure and Timing
SAT Structure (2 hours 14 minutes)
- Reading and Writing: 64 minutes, 54 questions (2 modules of 27 each)
- Math: 70 minutes, 44 questions (2 modules of 22 each)
- Break: 10 minutes between sections
ACT Structure (2 hours 55 minutes without essay)
- English: 45 minutes, 75 questions
- Math: 60 minutes, 60 questions
- Reading: 35 minutes, 40 questions
- Science: 35 minutes, 40 questions
- Optional Essay: 40 minutes (if taken)
Content Differences
Math Section
SAT Math:
- Emphasis on algebra, problem-solving, and data analysis
- Some advanced math (exponentials, quadratics, functions)
- Less geometry and trigonometry
- Calculator available for all questions
- Some questions require grid-in answers (no multiple choice)
ACT Math:
- More comprehensive coverage including pre-algebra through trigonometry
- More geometry (approximately 35% of questions)
- Includes matrices, logarithms, and trigonometry
- Calculator allowed for all questions
- All multiple choice questions
Reading Section
SAT Reading and Writing:
- Shorter passages (25-150 words typically)
- One question per passage or paired passages
- Questions test vocabulary in context
- Combined with grammar/writing questions
- More time per question
ACT Reading:
- Four longer passages (approximately 750 words each)
- 10 questions per passage
- Straightforward comprehension questions
- Separate from English (grammar) section
- Faster pacing required
Grammar/Writing
SAT Writing:
- Integrated with reading section
- Tests grammar, punctuation, and rhetorical skills
- Questions in context of short passages
- Emphasis on expression of ideas and conventions
ACT English:
- Separate 45-minute section
- Tests grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills
- Questions embedded in five passages
- Fast-paced (36 seconds per question average)
Science Section
SAT:
- No dedicated science section
- Science passages appear in reading section
- Cross-test scores measure science analysis skills
ACT:
- Dedicated 35-minute science section
- Tests data interpretation, not science knowledge
- Analyze graphs, tables, and experimental designs
- 40 questions with very fast pacing
Scoring Differences
SAT Scoring
- Total Score: 400-1600
- Section Scores: Reading/Writing (200-800), Math (200-800)
- Subscores: Multiple subscores in specific skill areas
- Percentiles: Compare performance to other test-takers
ACT Scoring
- Composite Score: 1-36 (average of four section scores)
- Section Scores: English (1-36), Math (1-36), Reading (1-36), Science (1-36)
- Subscores: Multiple subscores within each section
- Percentiles: Compare performance to other test-takers
Score Conversion
Use this approximate conversion table:
- SAT 1600 ≈ ACT 36
- SAT 1500 ≈ ACT 34
- SAT 1400 ≈ ACT 31
- SAT 1300 ≈ ACT 28
- SAT 1200 ≈ ACT 24
- SAT 1100 ≈ ACT 21
- SAT 1000 ≈ ACT 19
- SAT 900 ≈ ACT 16
How to Decide Between SAT and ACT
Step 1: Take Practice Tests for Both
The most reliable way to determine which test suits you better is to take full-length practice tests for both under realistic conditions.
- Take an official SAT practice test (via Bluebook app)
- Take an official ACT practice test
- Compare your scores using conversion tables
- Note which test felt more comfortable
- Identify which test showcases your strengths better
Step 2: Consider Your Strengths
Choose the SAT if you:
- Prefer working with more time per question
- Excel at algebra and data analysis
- Like having a calculator available for all math
- Prefer shorter reading passages
- Feel more comfortable with digital testing
- Find fast-paced tests stressful
Choose the ACT if you:
- Work well under time pressure
- Are strong in geometry and trigonometry
- Excel at data interpretation and charts
- Prefer straightforward, predictable test formats
- Don't mind a longer overall test
- Handle science-based passages well
Step 3: Consider Practical Factors
- Test Availability: Both widely available; check local test centers
- Test Dates: SAT offered 7 times/year, ACT offered 7 times/year
- Cost: Similar pricing for both tests
- Score Sending: Both have similar score reporting policies
- College Requirements: All accept both equally
Can You Take Both Tests?
Yes! About 25% of college-bound students take both the SAT and ACT. Benefits include:
- Maximizes your chances of achieving a high score
- Allows you to showcase different strengths
- Gives you more test dates to work with
- Provides flexibility if one test doesn't go well
Strategy for Taking Both:
- Take practice tests for both to determine which you're better at initially
- Focus preparation on your stronger test
- Take that test first
- If you want to improve your score, consider taking the other test
- Submit whichever score is higher (after conversion)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SAT or ACT easier?
Neither test is inherently easier - they test similar content but in different ways. The SAT gives you more time per question but adapts difficulty. The ACT is straightforward but requires faster pacing. The 'easier' test depends on your personal strengths and test-taking style.
Do colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?
All U.S. colleges accept both tests equally. There's no advantage to taking one over the other for admissions. Choose based on which test better suits your strengths. Some students even take both and submit their best scores.
Can I take both the SAT and ACT?
Yes! About 25% of students take both tests. This strategy can maximize your score potential. Take a practice test for each, then focus preparation on whichever test you perform better on. You can always take the other later if needed.
How do I convert between SAT and ACT scores?
Use official concordance tables from College Board and ACT, Inc. Generally: SAT 1600=ACT 36, SAT 1400=ACT 31, SAT 1200=ACT 24, SAT 1000=ACT 19. However, subscores may not convert perfectly, so taking practice tests of both is the most accurate comparison.
Final Recommendation
There's no universally "better" test—the right choice depends entirely on your individual strengths and preferences. The best approach:
- Take practice tests for both (one SAT, one ACT)
- Compare your scores using official conversion tables
- Consider which felt more comfortable during the practice test
- Choose the test where you performed better or felt more confident
- Focus your preparation on that specific test
- Keep the option open to try the other test if needed