The idea behind both tests is similar: to exhibit college readiness. Each test measures students’ proficiency in various critical skill areas. There is no benefit to taking one test over the other. It’s up to students’ skills, strengths, and weaknesses.
Let’s look at the following similarities & differences in both tests to help you make a wiser decision.
Similarities :
- Both the ACT & SAT are nationally recognized standardized tests and universally accepted by US colleges and awarding merit-based scholarships.
- These are wildly popular tests.
- Both contain core sections on Reading, Writing & Math.
- Both include an optional essay section whose score is not counted toward your composite score.
- No penalizing for incorrect answers. Both consider only correct answers to calculate your score.
Differences :
Key Pointers:
ACT
SAT
- Test Duration
2 hours 55 minutes (without essay)
3 hours 40 minutes (with essay)
3 hours(without essay)
3 hours 50 minutes (with essay)
2. Order of Sections
- English — 75 questions / 45 min
- Math — 60 ques / 60 min
- Reading — 40 ques /35 min
- Science— 40 ques / 35 min
- Essay(Optional) –1 ques/40 min
- Reading — 52 questions / 65 min
- Writing & Language– 44 ques / 35 min
- Math (No Calculator)- 20 ques / 25 min [15 MCQs + 5 Grid-ins]*
- Math (Yes Calculator) — 38 ques / 55 min [30 MCQs + 8 Grid-ins]
- Essay (Optional) — 1 ques / 50 min
3. Mode of Test
Computer-based (Non-US citizens)
Paper-based (US citizens only)
Paper based-For All
4. Calculator Policy
The calculator is allowed in all math sections.
The calculator is allowed only in the 4th Section.
5. Science
Science constitutes one-fourth of the ACT score.
Not specific Science knowledge required.
No particular science section but questions related to science might be seen in other sections.
6. Math Content
Arithmetic, Algebra, Higher Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability, Data Analysis.
7. Formulas Reference Guide
Not provided
Provided on the 1st page of both the math sections.
8. Grid-in Math Questions
Only MCQs
MCQs + Grid-ins.
*On Grid-ins, there are no answer choices. You’ve to fill in your own answers.
9. Reading
4 Reading Passages- Evidence Support Questions Present.
5 Reading passages- Evidence Support Questions Absent
10. Essay Content
Evaluating different Perspectives & Expressing your own opinion
Comprehending the source text and evaluating the arguments in the passage.
It does not demand your opinion
11. Scoring
Scored on a scale of 1–36
Scored on a scale of 400–1600
At Last, to take the final call — ACT or SAT?
The best way to make you decide to take timed offline practice tests and compare your scores.
While taking the test, you’ve to observe the difficulty level of questions in each section and how you handle the pressure in both the tests.
These factors along with your scores help you determine a better fittest for you.
