Act vs SAT

What is the SAT exam?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States. It assesses students' readiness for college and is designed to evaluate mathematical, verbal, and analytical skills. The SAT is conducted by the College Board and consists of sections in Reading, Writing & Language, and Math, with an optional Essay section.

What is an ACT exam?

The ACT (American College Testing) is another standardized test for college admissions in the United States. It evaluates students' skills in English, Math, Reading, and Science, with an optional Writing section. The ACT is managed by ACT, Inc. and emphasizes curriculum-based knowledge rather than reasoning abilities.

ACT vs SAT: How are they Different?

 

Factor	SAT	ACT
Administering Body	College Board	ACT, Inc.
Sections	Reading & Writing, Math	English, Math, Reading, Science, Optional Writing
Science Section	No	Yes
Math Topics	Focuses more on algebra and data analysis	Includes more advanced math concepts like trigonometry
Calculator Use	Allowed only on one math section	Allowed on all math questions
Time per Question	More time per question	Less time per question
Scoring	400-1600	1-36

ACT vs SAT: Exam Format

Areas of Difference	SAT	ACT
Number of Sections	2 (Reading & Writing, Math)	4 (English, Math, Reading, Science)
Optional Essay	No	Yes
Test Duration		2 hours 55 minutes (3 hours 40 minutes with Writing)
Number of Questions	134	215
Scoring System	400-1600	1-36

SAT vs ACT: How to Register?

SAT Registration Steps:

1. Visit the official College Board website.
2. Create an account.
3. Choose your test date and location.
4. Upload a photo for identification.
5. Pay the registration fee.
6. Print your admission ticket.

ACT Registration Steps:

1. Visit the official ACT website.
2. Create an account.
3. Select your test date and location.
4. Upload a photo for identification.
5. Pay the registration fee.
6. Print your admission ticket.

 

ACT vs SAT: Score Conversion

SAT Score	ACT Equivalent
1570-1600	36
1490-1520	34
1390-1410	31
1300-1320	28
1200-1220	25
1100-1120	22
990-1020	19
920-950	17
780-820	14
690-720	12
650-680	11

FAQs

Do the tests differ in difficulty?

The difficulty depends on a student’s strengths. The SAT focuses more on problem-solving and data analysis, while the ACT has a fast-paced structure with a Science section.

Which exam is more popular, the SAT or ACT?

Both exams are widely accepted by colleges in the U.S., but the SAT is slightly more popular among students on the East and West Coasts, whereas the ACT is more common in the Midwest and South.

Can I take both the SAT and ACT exams?

Yes, many students take both exams to determine which score presents them in the best light for college admissions.