When you’re planning to go to college, one big hurdle is that, for many schools, you must first complete a standardized test (if not a few). Students must choose between taking the ACT or SAT before they can take their next steps on the journey of higher education.
Unfortunately, most students don’t know much about these major assessments. For most students, the answer to questions like “what is the difference between ACT and SAT?” is a resounding “no.”
Don’t worry—this is where we come in! Below, we have a complete guide to everything you need to know about both of these exams. Keep reading to discover all of the important differences as well as which test you should take!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(click to skip ahead)- What is the ACT?
- What is the SAT?
- The difference between ACT and SAT
- What is tested on the SAT vs the ACT?
- Difference between SAT and ACT English
- Difference between ACT and SAT Math
- Difference between ACT and SAT Reading
- ACT Science
- Scoring: ACT vs SAT
- ACT to SAT Conversion
- Is the SAT or ACT easier?
- Should I take the SAT or ACT?
- Free resources to help you prepare for the ACT and SAT
What is the ACT?
The ACT (short for American College Testing) is an entrance exam used by various colleges and universities to help determine who is admitted as well as who qualifies for certain scholarships. The exam is multiple choice and must typically be completed using pencil and paper.
What is on the ACT test?
The ACT has four sections: English, math, reading, and science. There is also an optional writing section that students may take. If you are not happy with the score that you earn on the ACT, it is possible to take the test up to 12 different times (Side note: please don’t take the ACT 12 times). While most students don’t take the test quite so often (as in, 4 times is a lot), it is common to take it more than once so that students can send prospective colleges and universities the highest possible score.
In ACT scoring, the highest possible score is a 36.
When students retake the ACT, they usually have target ACT scores in mind to help them get into the college or university of their choice or to qualify for a specific scholarship. (To figure out your target score, look up score percentiles in a school’s Common Data Set.)
How long is the ACT?
The standard exam is exactly two hours and 55 minutes long, though with breaks, it will last three and a half hours. If you take the writing portion, the test itself is exactly three hours and 40 minutes long, and once you add breaks, it will take four hours to complete the test.
What is the SAT?
The SAT (short for Scholastic Assessment Test) is another type of entrance exam that colleges and universities use in order to determine who qualifies for both admission and scholarships. Like the ACT, this is a multiple choice assessment that students must typically complete using pencil and paper. (But a heads up that the SAT is moving to a digital version.)
What is on the SAT?
The SAT has only two sections: math and evidence-based reading and writing. If you are not happy with the score that you earn on the SAT, you can retake the test an unlimited number of times. In fact, the College Board that administers this exam recommends all students take the exam at least twice (once as a junior in high school in the spring and again as a senior in high school in the fall) so that students have the highest possible score when applying to different colleges and universities.
In SAT scoring, the maximum score is a 1600.
As with the ACT, many students take the test multiple times until they achieve a score they are happy with and that will help them get admitted into the institution of their choice and get the scholarships they need.
How long is the SAT?
The standard test takes exactly three hours, though with breaks, it lasts for three hours and 15 minutes. But the digital version is closer to two hours. If you take the optional essay section, it takes three hours and 50 minutes. With breaks, this longer test lasts four hours and five minutes.
The Difference Between ACT and SAT
The ACT and SAT cover largely the same topics (aspects of reading, writing, and math; the ACT science section is basically just a reading section). On a basic level, the ACT has more questions (meaning generally less time per question), while the SAT overall has fewer questions that may seem harder and take more time to answer. Both the SAT and ACT use right-only scoring (as in, you aren’t penalized for wrong answers, so eliminating and then guessing is a useful strategy, though this will change in ways with the digital SAT). In most cases, whether you take the SAT or ACT is largely a matter of choice—as in, most colleges are fine with either test. And in order to make the best possible choice, you need to understand more about the differences between these two major assessments.
To help you decide, we’ll review the primary SAT vs ACT differences that you need to know about in order to decide which test to take and succeed.
What Is Tested On the SAT vs the ACT?
The ACT is broken up into four categories, each with a straightforward title: English, math, reading, and science (with an optional essay). The SAT, meanwhile, has only three primary categories: writing and language, evidence-based reading, and math. There is no dedicated science section for the SAT, but science-ish questions may still be found in the Writing and Language section. (Though the ACT science section isn’t really a science test—more on that below.)
At a glance:
| Section | ACT | SAT | Digital SAT (2023/4) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Writing + Language / English | Number of Questions: 75 Total Time: 45 mins. = Time/Q: 36 secs | # of Qs: 44 Total Time: 35 mins. = Time/Q: 48 secs | Reading + Writing combined into one section: # of Qs: 54 Time: 64 mins. = Time/Q: 71 secs |
| Reading | # of Qs: 40 Total Time: 35 mins. = Time/Q: 53 secs | # of Qs: 52 Total Time: 65 mins. = Time/Q: 75 secs | See above |
| Math | # of Qs: 60 Total Time: 60 mins. = Time/Q: 60 secs (Calculator OK on all) | # of Qs: 58 Total Time: 80 mins. = Time/Q: 83 secs (Calculator + No Calc sections) | # of Qss: 33 + 11 student response Qs Total Time: 70 mins. = Time/Q: 95 secs (Calculator OK on all) |
| Science | # of Qs: 40 Total Time: 35 mins. = Time/Q: 53 secs | none | none |
| Essay | (Optional): 40 mins. | none | none |
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how the similar sections on each test compare to one another.
Difference between SAT and ACT English
In terms of content, there aren’t huge differences when it comes to SAT v ACT English and writing questions, but there are some subtle differences that may impact which test you want to take. And there are differences in the number of questions, how the questions are organized, and how much time you have to answer them that are important to know.
One key difference between the ACT and SAT English is that the ACT has 75 questions you must answer in 45 minutes and the SAT has 44 questions you must answer in 35 minutes. This means that you have more time to answer each question on the SAT (which could be important info for anyone who struggles with English and writing).
Each exam provides questions you need no prior knowledge to answer, and each question offers four possible multiple-choice answers.
Another of the major differences between SAT and ACT concerns how the questions are organized for each test. On the SAT, there are five different categories of questions concerning English and writing, and on the ACT, there are only three categories.
On the SAT, you can expect to answer questions about Standard English Conventions, Expression of Ideas, Words in Context, Command of Evidence, and Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science. The SAT’s English passages also generally have a slightly higher reading level, whereas the ACT tends to be closer to 9th grade reading.
On the ACT, you can expect to answer questions about Conventions of Standard English, Knowledge of Language, and Production of Writing.
Difference Between ACT and SAT Math
As with the English and writing sections, there aren’t huge differences between SAT and ACT math. But there are some differences in the kinds of math focused on, and there are key differences in the number of questions, how the questions are organized, and how much time you have to complete them that are important for you to know.
One of the most important SAT vs ACT differences is that on the ACT, there are 60 questions on the math section you must answer in 60 minutes, and on the SAT, there are 58 questions that you must complete within 80 minutes. This gives you more time to complete individual questions on the SAT, which possibly makes it a superior choice for those who struggle with math.
And one of the sneakier ACT and SAT differences is that while you can have a calculator for the entirety of the ACT math testing, you can only use a calculator for one of the two parts of the SAT math section. Whichever test you end up taking, it’s important to check out the official calculator policy so that you don’t accidentally bring in a forbidden device.
Additionally, on the SAT, most questions are multiple-choice, but there are 13 questions involving a grid-in answer that have no multiple-choice answers. In terms of test content, you may see several scenario-based prompts on the SAT, but the ACT mostly avoids these.
Speaking of test content, comparing ACT vs SAT testing reveals some major organizational differences. On the ACT, the questions all fall into two categories: preparing for higher mathematics (which tests your skills in a variety of mathematics sections) and integrating essential skills (which is about making sure you have a solid foundation in mathematical understanding.
On the SAT, questions fall into three categories: Heart of Algebra, Problem Solving and Data Analysis, and Passport to Advanced Math. Respectively, these sections help assess your ability to solve problems involving linear equations and systems, problems requiring quantitative analysis, and problems involving the manipulation of complex equations.
The SAT is more focused on Algebra, whereas the ACT has more of an even spread across Algebra, Geometry, Statistics, and Trig. (The SAT seems to especially love linear equations.)
The Difference Between ACT or SAT Reading
When it comes to SAT vs ACT, their respective reading sections have some differences that are useful to be aware of. And once more, it’s important to understand key differences in the number of questions, how the questions are organized, and how much time you have to answer them if you wish to succeed on the test.
On the ACT, you must read four sections and then answer 40 questions in 35 minutes. On the SAT, you must read five sections and answer 52 questions in 60 minutes. Because the SAT provides more time to answer each question, it may be the better choice for those who have sometimes struggled in their ELA classes.
Both the ACT and SAT provide line numbers for the passages you are reading. Use these to your advantage: for questions with line references, they are basically telling you where the answer is. Both tests also provide four possible multiple-choice answers for each question.
One difference to be aware of on the SAT vs ACT reading test is that the SAT questions are usually in chronological order (relative to the passage) but the ACT questions may not be. Another difference is that while the SAT may have multiple passages involving graphs, charts, and other visual elements. SAT passages also tend to be longer than ACT passages.
Between the two tests, each one has three question categories, though the categories are slightly different. On the ACT, questions focus on Key Ideas and Details, Craft and Structure, and Integration of Knowledge and Ideas regarding the passages. On the SAT, questions focus on Command of Evidence, Words in Context, and Analysis in History/Social Studies and in Science.
ACT Science
So far, our ACT vs SAT comparison has focused on differences in their respective test sections. However, when it comes to science sections, there is only one difference: the ACT has a dedicated science section and the SAT does not.
Those taking the ACT can expect to answer 40 questions in no more than 35 minutes. And the science questions are broken up into three categories: Data Representation, Research Summaries, and Conflicting Viewpoints.
A huge heads up, though: the ACT science section is not a science test. As in, it doesn’t really test your scientific knowledge. It’s essentially another critical reading test, just on graphs and charts and data. You’re required to understand some very basic aspects of science, like how variables work in experiments and how to apply logical reasoning. But you are required to have virtually no scientific facts or knowledge before you take the test—they basically give you everything you need.
Scoring: ACT vs SAT
When researching the SAT vs ACT test, you’ll quickly notice how differently they are scored. On the SAT, the maximum possible composite score is 1600. Before 2016, the maximum score was 2400, and this can sometimes cause confusion among parents and other older relatives and friends who remember how it used to be. Additionally, one quirk of the SAT is that it is impossible to score below 400. No matter how well you perform, your final score is determined by taking the raw score of your different answers and converting it into a scaled score.
For the ACT, the maximum possible composite score is a 36. As with the SAT, the final score is calculated by taking the raw score of your correct answers and turning it into a scaled score.
Incidentally, if you performed better in some sections than others, the ACT in 2020 introduced the ability to retake individual sections instead of retaking the entire exam. This provides a time- and cost-saving method of improving your scores before you apply to your dream college or university.
ACT to SAT Conversion
Obviously, the SAT and ACT are scored very differently. However, it’s possible to convert an existing score so you can tell how you would have roughly done on the ACT v SAT (or vice versa). The easiest way to do this is to plug your score into this ACT-SAT conversion table to see what your converted score would be.
It gets a little trickier if you took the SAT before 2016, when the maximum score was 2400. If that’s the case, we recommend using this conversion chart to find what your older score would be on the newer test. You can then run the revised score through the College Board’s calculator to discover how you would have performed on the ACT.
Is the SAT or ACT easier?
Unfortunately, there is no one size fits all answer to which test is better or easier because it depends on the relative academic strengths of the student. For example, the SAT tends to have longer reading passages, so students who are uncomfortable with extensive reading may prefer the ACT. But—counting the ACT science section as, effectively, a reading section—the ACT is more reading heavy overall. In some cases, those who are worried about math may also prefer the ACT because they can have a calculator the entire time, and the current SAT is more math heavy.
Should I take the SAT or ACT?
Given the information above, you may have guessed that the answer to “should I take the ACT or SAT” again comes down to “it depends.” In addition to depending on what kind of learner you are, the correct answer also depends on some of your exact circumstances.
For example, those seeking to receive a National Merit Scholarship will have to earn a competitive score on the PSAT. If you’re already going for such a scholarship, it makes sense to focus on the SAT. And while most major scholarships will take either ACT or SAT scores, it’s important to check the fine print on these scholarships well ahead of time to determine which test you should take.
All things being equal, and assuming you have time to do so, we recommend that you take free practice tests for both the SAT and ACT. This will help you discover which one you find easier to complete and can earn a higher score on, ultimately maximizing your odds of getting into the best colleges and universities and qualifying for the best scholarships.
Free Resources to Help You Prepare for the ACT and SAT
The single best way to improve your scores for both the ACT and SAT is to study for the test and take practice tests before you take the real thing. Below, we have some free resources to help you get the best possible score.
For the ACT, one of your best resources is ACT.org. Once you sign up, you get a study guide, other free resources, and best of all, a full-length practice test to help you learn your way around the exam.
For the SAT, probably the best resource is the College Board website. The Board administers the SAT and provides free sample questions, sample tests (complete with detailed answer keys), and other valuable info (including info on important registration dates) via its website.
If you’re looking for resources that can help prepare you for both the SAT and ACT, you have some good options. This includes Khan Academy (which has free SAT practice testing and, while not offering explicit ACT tests, offers free lessons on areas the ACT tests on).
Start Preparing for the ACT or SAT Today!
Now you know the most important differences between the ACT and SAT. And with any luck, you have a better idea of which one you want to take. Now, it’s time to put all of this knowledge together and knock the exam out!
Don’t forget that your test-taking strategies are often just as important as knowing enough about the test you are taking. That’s why practice tests are so important: they help you learn more about how to take the test even as you learn more about what the test is all about. With enough practice and enough research, you’ll do just great on the exam.
Special thanks to Chris for writing this blog post.
Chris Snellgrove is an English Professor at Northwest Florida State College who specializes in literature, rhetoric, and business writing. As a freelance writer, Chris specializes in sales, marketing, pop culture, and video games. He has a B.A. in English from Troy University and both an M.A. and Ph.D. in English from Auburn University. When he’s not writing or talking to others about writing, Chris loves reading books, playing video games, watching horror movies, and disappearing into a comic book. He currently lives in Northwest Florida and would probably rather be at the beach right now.
Top values: Diversity / Equality / Social Justice
