Which test is best? SAT or ACT

Deciding whether to take the SAT or the ACT can feel overwhelming. Since these tests play a crucial role in the college application process, understanding their nuances can significantly impact your strategy for success. 

Once you recognize that taking a college entrance exam can help you get into your top schools, the next step is deciding which test to take. Universities don’t have a preference for the SAT over the ACT, so deciding which test to take is really up to you. 

Learn the key differences between the SAT and ACT to make an informed decision and optimize your test-taking approach.

The SAT at a glance

The SAT is now a digital exam taken on your personal or school computer at an authorized testing center. It is a 2-hour 14-minute exam, consisting of two sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Each section is divided into 2 equal-length modules, with a 10-minute break between the Reading & Writing and Math.

The first module of each section is adaptive, meaning that your performance in this section determines the type of material you’ll receive in the second module. Students with a higher performance will be directed to a harder second module that allows for a higher score. Students who don’t perform as well in the first module will get an easier second module and their score will be capped at a certain threshold.

The reading and writing section tests students in these main areas: 

• Information and Ideas

• Craft and Structure

• Expression of Ideas

• Standard English Conventions

The math section covers these areas:

• Algebra

• Advanced Math

• Problem-solving and Data Analysis

• Geometry and Trigonometry

A quick breakdown of the ACT

The ACT is a paper-based test with four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. This test is lengthier than the SAT at 2 hours and 55 minutes. It also moves at a much faster pace with the time on the math section at a minute per question. The reading, English, and science sections are paced at less than a minute per question. 

How to know which test is right for you

Choosing between the SAT and ACT is really up to your preference. The best thing you can do is to take a practice exam for each test. Once you do you can compare the scores and, more importantly, get a feel for which one you prefer. 

Generally speaking, students who prefer math choose the SAT since it has more nuanced questions and makes up half the score. 

The ACT contains more direct questions and the math comprises only 25% of the score.

Some students are daunted by the science section, but rather than test scientific knowledge the exam tests students' ability to analyze data. 

If you need help deciding which test is the best fit, click here to schedule a free 30-minute consultation and we can review your test results together.