A Comprehensive Guide To ACT Vs SAT

If you are not sure which test between ACT and SAT is better for you, then it is important to
consider the key differences between these two tests. While some students feel that the ACT
tests their individual strengths, others feel the same way about SAT. In this comprehensive ACT
vs SAT analysis, we look at the top differences between the ACT and SAT as well as their pros
and cons.

Differences and Similarities between ACT and SAT

Generally, ACT and SAT are not that different since both are nationally recognized standardized
tests and are both common requirements for admission into US schools. These tests primarily
cater to high school juniors and seniors with each testing a student’s proficiency in a wide range
of critical skill areas that include reading comprehension as well as problem-solving that are
critical for college success. It is also important to note that there is no added advantage in
choosing one test over the other since all US colleges and universities accept both ACT and SAT
scores. This allows students to the same schools regardless of the test they choose to take. Best
universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton accept scores from ACT and SAT.
The main difference between these two tests is their actual content although the SAT has been
massively redesigned as of 2016. This means that both tests are more closely identified than
ever before. Both tests contain similar sections that include reading, math etc in a
predetermined order thus each section appears only once. Both tests also provide an optional
essay section although its score does not add up to the total score. ACT and SAT use rights-
an only scoring system which means that students are not penalized for incorrect answers. The
tests also offer passage-based reading as well as English/Writing questions known as “writing”
or “writing and language” on the SAT and “English” on the ACT.

An Overview of ACT Vs SAT (Pros and Cons)

Despite a number of similarities ACT and SAT still, differ from each other in many ways. For
instance, the ACT is slightly shorter than the SAT while the time limits and the number of
questions are entirely different for the corresponding sections. The SAT test allows more time
per question compared to the ACT thus the SAT is more ideal for students who loathe time
crunches. For example, in the reading section, the ACT gives you 53 seconds/question while the

SAT gives you 75 seconds/per question for the same.

The other major difference between these two tests has to do with science as the ACT provides
a science section while the SAT does not. This means that for those students who love the idea
of having an entire section entirely focused on science, SAT may not be a perfect fit for them.
However, the SAT exam still tests scientific concepts but not through a separate section. In the
math subsection ACT allows students to use a calculator on all questions while the SAT has a 25

minutes long and 20 questions subsection for which students may not use a calculator. This
means that for those students who may have problems with solving math quickly SAT
math may not be their best option.