SAT or ACT?
Standardized Testing
All colleges accept both the SAT and the ACT. Both ACT and SAT scores are used for college admissions and merit-based scholarships. Most colleges don't prefer one test over the other. The SAT is now a digital exam, although students who need accommodations may request a paper exam. The ACT continues to be a paper and pencil exam. Take time to understand the differences and take the test that best suits you. Many students take both tests. It’s highly advisable to prep for the tests. Take practice exams and study. Statistically, the second SAT test administration raises the score about 50 – 100 points. Scores tend to level off for subsequent tests.
Test Optional
There are over 700 colleges that are now standardized test optional.
Please go to www.fairtest.org for a current list of test-optional colleges and universities.
Test Comparison
SAT - Digital Only | ACT - Paper & Pencil The ACT is not an adaptive test; it is static in format. | |
Length | 2 hours, 14 minutes | 2 hours, 55 minutes |
Sections | 2 Sections: Reading/Writing and Math Reading & Writing: 64 minutes Two 32 minute modules Math: 70 minutes Two 35 minute modules | 4 Sections: English: 45 Minutes Math: 60 minutes Reading: 35 minutes Science: 35 Minutes Optional Essay: 40 minutes |
Subjects | Critical Reading & Writing Math | English Math Reading Science Essay (optional) |
Reading | Passages in the Reading and Writing section range from 25 to 150 words. Passages represent the subject areas of literature, history/social studies, the humanities, and science. | The four passages come in the same order and from the same categories: |
Science | None | 35 minutes. Tests critical thinking skills, not specific science knowledge. 6 long passages with graphs and 40 questions. |
Math | Calculator Allowed 1. Algebra | 3 overlapping areas and 5 question types |
Essay | Available only in states where it's required as part of SAT School Day administrations. | Optional 40-minute essay comes after the main ACT exam. Analyze a prompt with a complex issue and three perspectives. |
Scoring | 400-1600 Total Score 200-800: Reading & Writing 200-800: Math | Composite score on a scale of 1–36 This score is an average of your scores on the 4 multiple-choice test sections (each section is scored on 1–36 scale). The optional Writing Test is not included in the composite score. |
Penalties | No penalty for incorrect answers | No penalty for incorrect answers |
Score Choice | Student decides which scores are sent | Student decides which scores are sent |
Additional Information |
