The ACT or SAT: Which One Is Right For You?

Every year, students around the world sit for the SAT or the ACT, or both. These standardized tests are used for college admissions decisions.

Test scores can also help students earn merit-based scholarships and get into certain honors programs.

Most colleges do not require or prefer one test over the other, and the tests generally cover the same information. And even though they may seem vastly different, neither test is more difficult or easier than the other. The reality is that some students just perform better on one test versus the other.

If the SAT and ACT are generally the same, how can a student decide which test is right for him or her?

How Are The ACT and SAT The Same?

These two nationally recognized exams have always been pretty similar. That comes from the fact that they share a similar goal, to evaluate a student’s ability to do well in college. After the SAT went through a major redesign in 2016, the tests are more alike than they’ve ever been before.

Here are just some of the features that are shared by the ACT and SAT:

• They both have similar sections that come in a predetermined order
• Neither test penalizes you for wrong answers
• Both use passage-based reading and English questions

How Are the ACT and SAT Different?

While both tests are supposed to test the same general information and have the same end goal, there are some key differences that can help students decide if one is a better fit.

It’s About Timing

From a pure number of questions standpoint, the SAT is slightly longer than the ACT if you don’t count the ACT’s optional essay. There are also different time limits per section.

If you’re someone who doesn’t test well under pressure or you struggle with time management, you might prefer the SAT. Generally speaking, the SAT gives you more time per question on all sections.

Blinded By Science?

The ACT contains a section that is completely devoted to science. This section does not appear on the SAT. The SAT does test science concepts, but it comes in the forms of charts and graphs in the reading section instead of having a separate section.

You might be thinking to yourself, “I love science! I’ll take the ACT.” Hold up. Just because it’s called a science section doesn’t mean it actually tests science. The ACT’s science test is really just a reading test that tests your ability to find answers in a passage, interpret charts/graphs, etc., with science subjects. Sure, students must be comfortable with the scientific method and common sense science, but it’s not a “true” science test.

No Help In Math

The ACT has a single math section that contains 60 questions that should be completed in 60 minutes. The SAT has multiple math sections. Unlike the ACT, the SAT also has a section where calculators are strictly prohibited.

You’ll also notice that both tests focus a great deal on algebra. The ACT, however, also focuses a little on geometry and throws in some questions about matrices, functions, and more. The SAT has almost no geometry and doesn’t include other areas, as you’ll find on the ACT.

Finally, the SAT offers a diagram of math formulas and laws to help you along the way. The ACT offers nothing of the sort. On the flip side, the SAT has some math questions where you have to come up with the answer and not choose from a multiple-choice selection.

How Do I Know Which One Is Right For Me?

After learning about the major differences between the exams, you may already have an idea of which test seems like a better fit. Another option would be to take an official ACT or SAT practice test to get a real-life feel of how the tests work. For the best results, take both tests on separate days under real testing conditions. You can also compare the scores to see how your scores stack up.

Many students feel the pressure to take both exams officially. While this is one way to see how you perform, it’s a lot of stress, time, and money to do it all. Since either test can help you get into your dream school, it makes more sense to take the one that is a better fit.