SAT vs. ACT: What's The Difference And Which Test Should You Take in 2024?

SAT vs ACT: What’s The Difference And Which Test Should You Take?

Choosing between the SAT and ACT is a choice that many students face, even though many US colleges have now adopted test optional policies. Despite this, the SAT and ACT still hold significant weight in the college admissions process, potentially boosting scholarship opportunities and strengthening applications.

Both exams aim to predict college success, covering similar ground with unique challenges. While the SAT once focused on academic aptitude and the ACT on in-depth analysis the lines between the two have become more similar over time. If you’re struggling to choose between the SAT and ACT, rest assured you’re not alone.

In our ACT vs SAT guide we demystify the differences and similarities between the ACT and SAT, offering insights into each test’s format, content, scoring system, and the strategic considerations students should make when choosing which test to pursue. Keep reading to make an informed decision about whether you should choose the ACT or SAT.

SAT vs. ACT Overview

The ACT and SAT are both standardised tests that play a pivotal role in the college and university admissions process in the United States. Both tests serve as a metric for evaluating a student’s readiness for college-level work, offering colleges and universities a common data point that can be used to compare all applicants. 

While both tests are generally considered equal by most universities, they differ significantly in structure, content, and style. Understanding these similarities and differences is essential, as it can help students determine which test might better showcase their abilities.

Feature	SAT	ACT	Notes
Test Duration	2 hours 14 minutes	2 hours 5 minutes for the core test; 2 hours 45 minutes with Science; 3 hours 25 minutes with Science + Writing	The SAT is shorter overall but the ACT is now much shorter than the old version if taken without Science or Writing.
Number of Questions	98	131 core questions; 171 with Science	Despite a higher question count, ACT’s slightly shorter duration demands faster pacing.
Compulsory Sections	Reading and Writing, Math	English, Math, Reading	The core sections cover similar areas
Optional Sections	None	Science and Writing (Essay)	The ACT has optional Science and essay-writing sections, unlike the ACT
Scoring Scale	400–1600	1–36 composite	The SAT combines two section scores. The ACT composite is now based on English, Math, and Reading; Science is reported separately if taken.
Test Format	Digital only	Online or paper	The SAT is now fully digital. ACT continues to offer both delivery modes.
Pacing	More time per question overall	Faster pacing, especially on English	SAT pacing is generally a bit less pressured. ACT still rewards students who work quickly, even after the redesign.
Cost	$68 (U.S. base fee; international fees vary)	$68 core test; +$4 Science; +$25 Writing	SAT and ACT core pricing are now the same in the U.S., but ACT add-ons can raise the total cost.
Guessing Penalty	No	No	Students should answer every question on both tests.
Test Dates	8 weekend test dates in the 2025–26 testing year	7 national test dates per year	Offers multiple opportunities for taking or retaking the exams.
Testing Agency	College Board	ACT	Knowing the administering body can help in finding more specific information and resources.

ACT and SAT Similarities

Accepted by Colleges and Universities

Both the ACT and SAT are widely accepted by colleges and universities across the United States, and admissions offices do not generally prefer one over the other. If a university accepts standardised testing, students can usually submit either ACT or SAT scores.

Many selective universities have reinstated testing requirements after several years of test-optional policies. As a result, students should no longer assume that top universities will allow them to apply without scores. Instead, they should check each institution’s current policy carefully before applying.

Core Sections

Both exams assess the core academic skills that universities expect applicants to demonstrate, especially reading, writing, and mathematics.

The digital SAT has two sections: Reading and Writing and Math. The ACT includes English, Math, and Reading, and now offers Science as an optional section on the enhanced version of the test. Although the structure differs, both exams are intended to measure academic readiness for university-level study.

Test Dates

Both exams are offered multiple times each year at authorised test centres, giving students several chances to sit the exam to improve their scores.

Currently, the SAT has eight weekend test dates, while the ACT has seven national test dates. This means students can usually choose the test schedule that fits best with their school workload, university deadlines, and preparation timeline.

Timing and Test Length

Both exams are shorter than many students and parents still expect from older versions of the tests, but timing remains important.

The SAT lasts 2 hours 14 minutes. The ACT now lasts 2 hours 5 minutes for the core test, with additional time if a student chooses to take optional sections such as Science or Writing. Even with these changes, pacing still matters: the ACT generally feels faster, while the SAT usually gives slightly more time per question.

No Wrong Answer Penalty

Neither the ACT nor the SAT penalises students for incorrect answers.

That means students should answer every question, even if they need to make an educated guess. This scoring approach encourages a more confident and strategic test-taking style.

Superscoring

Many colleges and universities continue to accept superscoring for one or both exams, meaning they consider a student’s highest section scores across multiple test dates.

However, superscoring policies are set by individual institutions rather than by the testing agencies, so students should always check the admissions page of each university on their list. For example, Brown explicitly states that it will superscore the SAT, the ACT, or both. MIT also states that it superscores.

Why These Similarities Matter

Understanding the similarities between the SAT and ACT helps students focus on what universities are actually looking for: strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, academic consistency, and readiness for higher education.

In most cases, the decision between the ACT and SAT is not about which test is more respected. It is about which format better matches a student’s strengths, pace, and preparation style.

ACT and SAT Differences

While the ACT and SAT share some overarching similarities, a closer examination reveals distinct differences in how each test approaches certain subjects and scoring. Understanding these nuances can help students decide which test plays to their strengths.

ACT vs SAT Score Conversion Chart

ACT Composite Score	SAT Score
36	1600
35	1560-1590
34	1520-1550
33	1490-1510
32	1450-1480
31	1420-1440
30	1390-1410
29	1350-1380
28	1310-1340
27	1280-1300
26	1240-1270
25	1200-1230
24	1160-1190
23	1130-1150
22	1100-1120
21	1060-1090
20	1020-1050
19	980-1010
18	940-970
17	900-930
16	860-890
15	810-850
14	760-800
13	720-750
12	630-710
11	560-620

You can learn more about ACT scores in our dedicated guide. If you’re aiming for top colleges, our guide to what a good SAT score is for the Ivy League is also useful.

ACT vs SAT Math

Content

The SAT Math section focuses on three main areas:

• Algebra
• Advanced Math (including functions and more complex equations)
• Problem Solving and Data Analysis

Additional topics such as geometry and trigonometry are still included, but the test places a strong emphasis on interpreting data, working with equations, and applying mathematical reasoning.

The ACT Math section covers a broader range of topics, including:

• Pre-algebra and elementary algebra
• Intermediate algebra
• Coordinate and plane geometry
• Trigonometry

Compared to the SAT, the ACT tends to test a wider spread of content, including more direct recall of formulas and techniques.

Format

The SAT Math section is now fully digital and adaptive, taken in two modules.

• Calculators are allowed throughout the entire section
• Students also have access to a built-in Desmos graphing calculator

This marks a major change from the old SAT, which had a no-calculator section.

The ACT Math section:

• Allows the use of a calculator for all questions
• Is currently not adaptive
• Is part of the core test (with no structural changes to Math in the enhanced ACT)

Question Style

SAT Math questions tend to:

• Emphasise multi-step problem solving
• Focus on data interpretation and applied maths
• Include student-produced responses (i.e. not all multiple choice)
• Require interpreting graphs, tables, and scenarios

The digital format also means questions are often shorter and more focused, but still require careful reasoning.

ACT Math questions are generally:

• More direct and procedural
• Focused on applying known methods quickly
• Entirely multiple choice
• Less reliant on extended data analysis compared to the SAT

Students often find the ACT more predictable, but more content-heavy.

Timing

The SAT Math section allows:

• More time per question overall
• A slightly more measured pace, supported by the adaptive structure

The ACT Math section is known for:

• Faster pacing
• Less time per question
• A need for quick recall and efficient problem-solving

Key Takeaway

The SAT and ACT now differ more clearly than before:

• The SAT focuses on depth, reasoning, and data analysis, with adaptive testing and calculator use throughout
• The ACT focuses on breadth, speed, and procedural fluency, with a wider range of topics and quicker pacing

Students who prefer working through problems carefully often favour the SAT, while those who are confident with quick recall across many topics may prefer the ACT.

ACT vs SAT Reading & Writing/English

Reading Section

The SAT no longer has a standalone “Reading” section. Instead, reading skills are assessed within the combined Reading and Writing section.

• The test uses multiple short passages or text excerpts, each paired with a small number of questions
• Passages draw from literature, history, social studies, and science
• Questions focus on comprehension, vocabulary in context, analysis, and interpreting information presented in texts, tables, or charts

This is a major shift from the old SAT, which used long passages. The current format is more concise and modular.

The ACT Reading section includes four longer passages:

• Prose fiction
• Social studies
• Humanities
• Natural sciences

Questions assess comprehension, reasoning, and analysis. Students are required to locate information, make inferences, and understand the author’s tone and purpose.

Writing / English Section

The SAT combines writing with reading into a single section.

• Questions assess grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure
• There is also a strong focus on rhetorical skills, including clarity, organisation, and transitions
• Questions are tied to short passages, meaning students work within context rather than editing full-length texts

The ACT English section is a separate component of the test.

• It evaluates grammar, punctuation, usage, and sentence structure
• It also assesses rhetorical skills such as organisation, style, and effectiveness
• Questions are based on longer passages that students must revise and edit

Passage Complexity

SAT passages are now shorter and more focused than in previous versions of the test.

• Questions often target specific skills in isolation, such as word meaning, sentence structure, or data interpretation
• The level of difficulty comes from precision and reasoning rather than passage length

ACT passages remain longer and more traditional in structure.

• Students must read full passages and answer multiple questions about each
• Questions focus on main ideas, supporting details, and logical relationships within the text

Timing

The SAT provides more time per question overall.

• The modular structure and shorter passages allow for a slightly more measured pace
• Students can focus on one question at a time without managing long passages

The ACT has a faster pace.

• Students must read longer passages and answer multiple questions quickly
• Strong time management is essential to complete all questions within the allotted time

Science

SAT Approach to Science

The SAT does not include a dedicated science section. Instead, scientific material is integrated into other parts of the test, primarily within the Reading and Writing section and occasionally in the Math section.

Students are expected to interpret graphs, tables, and charts, analyse experiments, and evaluate scientific claims. The emphasis is not on recalling scientific knowledge, but on applying reasoning skills to information presented in a scientific context.

ACT Science Section

The ACT now offers Science as an optional section in its enhanced format. Students can choose whether to take it, depending on the requirements of the colleges they’re applying to and their own strengths.

Format and Structure

If taken, the ACT Science section consists of 40 multiple-choice questions completed in 35 minutes. The section is organised around a series of short passages, each followed by a set of questions. These passages draw on disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, and Earth and space sciences.

Content Focus

The ACT Science section is designed to assess scientific reasoning rather than subject-specific knowledge. Students are required to interpret data, understand experimental design, and analyse relationships between variables.

This means that success depends more on logical thinking and data interpretation than on memorising scientific facts.

Question Types

Questions typically ask students to analyse data, identify trends, make predictions, and evaluate hypotheses. The focus is on extracting relevant information quickly and using it accurately.

Time Constraints

Timing is a key challenge in the ACT Science section. With 35 minutes to answer 40 questions, students have less than one minute per question.

This creates a fast-paced environment where efficient reading and quick decision-making are essential.

Key Takeaway

The distinction between the two tests is clear. The SAT embeds scientific reasoning within its other sections, while the ACT offers a separate, optional Science section.

Students who are confident interpreting data under time pressure may benefit from taking ACT Science, while others may prefer the SAT’s integrated approach.

Essay

The ACT offers an optional Writing section, providing students with a platform that the SAT no longer includes. While not mandatory for all colleges, a strong essay score on the ACT can enhance your application in several ways. If you excel in writing but your standardised test scores don’t fully reflect it, the essay allows you to showcase your critical thinking and persuasive skills in a different format. In addition, some scholarships prioritise writing proficiency, making the ACT essay an important way to demonstrate your abilities.

That being said, if adding the essay section means sacrificing study time for the core test, consider skipping it unless a specific school requires it. If persuasive writing is a challenge for you, it may be better to focus on maximising your performance in other sections rather than risking a low essay score.

There are more tips in our guide on ‘Should I take the ACT with Writing?’

Unlike the ACT, the SAT no longer includes an essay section. While the SAT essay is no longer a factor, students should focus on maximising their performance in other sections of the SAT. Despite the absence of an essay section, admissions officers still value strong writing skills demonstrated throughout the application, including in essays, personal statements, and supplemental materials. Similar to the ACT, if your target schools have a strong emphasis on test-optional policies, prioritise other aspects of your application beyond standardised test scores

Time Limit

• Students have 40 minutes to complete the ACT essay. They must read the prompt, evaluate the perspectives provided, formulate their own argument, and write their essay within the time constraint.

Prompt Style

• The ACT essay presents students with a contemporary issue or topic and provides three different perspectives on it. Students are tasked with evaluating these perspectives, articulating their own viewpoint, and analysing the relationship between their perspective and those presented.

Scoring Criteria

• The ACT essay is scored on four domains: Ideas and Analysis, Development and Support, Organization, and Language Use. Each domain is scored on a scale of 2 to 12, and the four domain scores are averaged to produce a final score ranging from 2 to 12. Scorers evaluate the student’s ability to develop and support their argument, organise their ideas effectively, and demonstrate control of language.

ACT vs SAT Pacing and Strategy

Pacing

SAT: The SAT generally provides more time per question than the ACT, although the format has changed significantly with the move to digital testing.

• In the Reading and Writing section, students have roughly 1 minute per question
• In the Math section, students have slightly more time, at around 1 minute and 15 seconds per question

Because the SAT is adaptive and uses shorter question sets, students can work at a more measured pace and focus on one task at a time.

ACT: The ACT is still known for its faster pacing, even after recent changes to the test.

• The Reading section gives students 35 minutes for 40 questions
• The optional Science section also allows 35 minutes for 40 questions
• The Math section is quicker than the SAT, with around 1 minute per question

This means students need to move quickly, particularly in Reading and Science, where managing time effectively is essential.

Overall, the SAT offers slightly more time per question and a less pressured pacing style, while the ACT rewards speed and efficiency across a broader range of questions.

Strategy

SAT: The SAT requires a more analytical and methodical approach, particularly in the Reading and Writing and Math sections.

• Questions often involve multi-step reasoning, especially in Math
• Reading and Writing questions focus on precise comprehension, vocabulary in context, and interpreting information within short passages
• Students are expected to engage carefully with each question, often analysing small details rather than working through long texts

The digital format reinforces this approach by presenting shorter, more focused questions that still require careful thought.

It is also important to note that the SAT no longer includes an essay section.

ACT: The ACT is known for its faster pace and more direct questioning style.

• Math questions tend to be more straightforward, focusing on applying known methods quickly
• Reading requires students to process longer passages efficiently and locate key information under time pressure
• The optional Science section emphasises interpreting data, understanding experiments, and evaluating evidence

While the questions may feel more predictable, the challenge comes from the speed required to complete the test.

The SAT rewards careful reasoning and precision, while the ACT places greater emphasis on speed and efficient problem-solving across a broader range of questions.

ACT vs SAT Scoring

ACT Scoring

Composite Score: The ACT composite score is the average of the three compulsory section scores (English, Math, and Reading), each ranging from 1 to 36. The composite score also ranges from 1 to 36 and is rounded to the nearest whole number. This score gives colleges a quick understanding of a student’s overall performance.

Writing Score: The optional Writing (Essay) section is scored separately on a scale of 2 to 12. This score does not affect the composite score but is reported alongside it, providing additional context about a student’s writing skills.

Subscores: The ACT also provides subscores in English, Math, and Reading that range from 1 to 36. These subscores give more detailed insights into specific areas within these subjects. Science is also scored on a scale of 1-36, but this does not affect your composite score.

Our full guide to ACT scoring contains more information on how scores are calculated and what makes a good score.

SAT Scoring

Total Score: The SAT total score ranges from 400 to 1600 and is the sum of two section scores: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math, each ranging from 200 to 800. This total score offers a broad overview of a student’s capabilities.

Subscores: The SAT provides several subscores for the Reading, Writing and Language, and Math sections, ranging from 1 to 15. These subscores offer more granular feedback on specific skills, such as command of evidence and words in context.

You can use our SAT score calculator to convert your raw score to a scaled score.

Should I take the ACT or SAT?

Deciding whether to take the ACT or the SAT is a significant decision for high school students planning to apply to colleges. This choice can influence not only how they prepare for college admissions tests but also where they might have the best chance to showcase their strengths. Here are several factors to consider when making this decision:

Assess Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Maths Skills: If you excel in maths, particularly in a broad range of topics including algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, you might find the ACT to be more suited to your strengths due to its wider coverage of mathematical concepts. If you’re strong in algebra and data analysis but less so in geometry, the SAT might play to your strengths, especially with its no-calculator section.

Science Reasoning: If you have strong analytical and interpretation skills, especially in scientific contexts, you might perform well on the ACT’s Science section, which doesn’t require specific knowledge in biology, chemistry, or physics but assesses your ability to interpret data and experimental results.

Reading and Writing: If you have strong reading comprehension skills and can analyse and synthesise information efficiently, you might excel at the SAT’s evidence-based reading and writing section. The ACT’s reading section is more about speed and less about deep analysis, which might suit fast readers.

Essay Writing: Although the essay sections are optional and structured differently on both tests, your preference for analytical writing (analysing an argument on the SAT) versus persuasive writing (presenting your perspective on an issue on the ACT) can also influence your decision.

Consider Your College Plans

Research the testing preferences of the colleges you’re interested in. While most schools accept scores from both tests equally, some students might find advantages in taking one test over the other based on specific college requirements or the states they’re applying to, as some regions have a historical preference for one test.

Take Practice Tests

The best way to decide between the ACT and SAT is to take timed practice tests for both. This experience can give you a sense of which test format and question style you’re more comfortable with and which one best complements your test-taking strategies.

Reflect on the Test-taking Experience

Pacing: The ACT is known for its fast pacing, especially in the Reading and Science sections. If you prefer a test that allows more time to consider your answers, the SAT might be more suitable.

Question Style: SAT questions often require more steps to reach an answer and can be more nuanced, particularly in the Math section. If you prefer more straightforward questions, even under tighter time constraints, the ACT might play to your strengths.

Time and Resources for Preparation

Consider how much time you have to prepare for the test and the resources available to you. Each test requires a different preparation strategy to tackle its unique format and question types effectively.

Making an informed choice between the ACT and SAT involves understanding your academic strengths, how you test under timed conditions, and what each test measures. By considering these factors and utilising practice tests, you can select the exam that best aligns with your skills and maximises your potential for college admissions success. Increase your chances of success by seeking expert ACT preparation and SAT preparation support.

Prepare To Take The ACT and SAT

The journey of deciding between the ACT and SAT is a personal one, influenced by a student’s academic strengths, test-taking preferences, strategic decision making and college aspirations. 

In making this decision, it’s crucial for students to:

• Evaluate Their Strengths and Preferences: Understand whether their skills align more closely with the content and style of the ACT or SAT.
• Consider College Requirements and Recommendations: Research the testing preferences of their target colleges, especially in light of the increasing prevalence of test-optional policies.
• Practice and Prepare Strategically: Utilise official practice materials and consider test preparation resources to improve their performance.
• Stay Informed About Trends: Keep up with changes in the testing landscape, including digital testing initiatives and shifts in college admissions policies, to make informed decisions.

As students begin to prepare for the ACT and SAT, they should remember that while standardised test scores are an important aspect of college applications, they are just one part of a holistic review process that considers a wide range of factors. Ultimately, the goal is to find a college that is the right fit for your academic and personal development.

Preparation for the SAT and ACT with Dukes Plus

Our US university application consultants offer comprehensive preparation and guidance for students applying to US universities. Our Ivy League success rate is 4.5x the average, and 75% of our students get into their first-choice universities.

For those getting ready for standardised tests, we offer:

• ACT preparation, including 1-1 tutoring and courses
• SAT preparation, including 1-1 tutors and courses

Additional Resources

As you prepare to make an informed decision between the ACT and SAT test, having access to a variety of resources can significantly enhance your readiness and confidence. Here’s a compilation of additional resources that can support you through every step of the process:

ACT Resources:

ACT Official Website: Offers registration details, test prep, practice tests, and tips directly from the test makers.

ACT Academy: Provides free personalised learning tools and practice resources tailored to your test preparation needs.

SAT Resources:

College Board Official SAT Practice: In partnership with Khan Academy, offers free personalised practice plans based on your PSAT/NMSQT or previous SAT scores.

SAT Practice Tests: Access an SAT mini mock to assess your skills.

Test Preparation Courses and Books

• Khan Academy: Offers free, personalised practice for the SAT, including interactive problems, video lessons, and full-length practice tests.
• Princeton Review and Kaplan: Both provide comprehensive test prep courses for the ACT and SAT, including live classes, online resources, and practice tests. They also publish widely used test prep books that are updated regularly to reflect the latest test formats and questions.

College Admissions and Test Strategy Guides

• College Confidential Forums: A platform where students, parents, and admissions experts share advice, experiences, and strategies for standardised tests and college admissions.
• FairTest: Offers an up-to-date list of test-optional schools and articles on the movement toward test-optional admissions policies.
• The College Panda: Specialises in SAT and ACT maths preparation, offering books and online resources to strengthen maths skills and strategies.

YouTube Channels for Test Prep

• SupertutorTV: Offers tips and strategies for both the ACT and SAT, including breakdowns of practice questions and advice on the college admissions process.
• Magoosh High School: Provides video lessons on a wide range of topics for ACT and SAT preparation, including study schedules, test-taking strategies, and breakdowns of practice questions.

Mental Health and Stress Management

• Headspace and Calm: Both offer meditation and mindfulness practices to help manage test anxiety and improve focus during your study sessions.

College Admissions Blogs and Newsletters

• The New York Times College Admissions: Offers articles and advice on navigating the college admissions process, including standardised testing.
• NACAC (National Association for College Admission Counseling): Provides insights into college admissions trends, including standardised testing and policy changes.

Leveraging these resources can provide you with a wealth of knowledge and tools to effectively prepare for the ACT or SAT. Whether you’re looking for in-depth content review, strategy optimization, or stress management techniques, there’s a resource out there to meet your needs. Remember, the key to success is starting early, staying consistent in your preparation, and using the right tools to support your journey to achieving your college admissions goals.