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SAT vs. ACT: Which Test Should You Take?

Mathews

Choosing between the SAT and the ACT matters because most colleges in the United States—and many abroad—accept scores from either exam. Picking the one that fits you better can save study time, lower stress, and lift your final score. This guide explains each test in plain language so you can decide with confidence.

What the SAT Looks Like in 2025

The SAT is now a fully digital exam. You take it on a laptop or tablet at an approved centre. The test is adaptive, meaning the second set of questions in each section gets harder or easier based on how you did on the first set.

  • Reading & Writing: 64 minutes, 54 questions

  • Math: 70 minutes, 44 questions (calculator allowed the whole time)
    Scores range from 400 to 1600.

What the ACT Looks Like in 2025

The ACT still offers a paper booklet but has an online option at some sites.

  • English: 45 minutes, 75 questions

  • Math: 60 minutes, 60 questions

  • Reading: 35 minutes, 40 questions

  • Science: 35 minutes, 40 questions

  • Writing (optional): 40 minutes
    Scores range from 1 to 36, averaged across the four main sections.

Shared Ground

Both exams:

  • Measure high‑school reading, grammar, and math skills

  • Let you send free score reports to four colleges if you choose them during registration

  • Offer fee waivers to students with financial need

  • Run several times a year, mostly on Saturday mornings

Where They Part Ways

Feature SAT ACT
Science Section No separate science section; data questions are mixed in A full science section that tests graphs and experiments
Math Content More algebra and data analysis More geometry and trigonometry
Essay None Optional
Timing Fewer total minutes, more time per question More total minutes, less time per question
Delivery Digital only Paper or online
Superscoring Very common Growing but not universal

Match the Test to Your Strengths

You may prefer the SAT if:

  • Reading charts is easy for you.

  • You solve algebra problems faster than geometry ones.

  • Working on a computer keeps you focused.

  • You like getting a bit more time per question.

You may prefer the ACT if:

  • You handle quick, straightforward questions well.

  • Science class is your strong suit, especially interpreting graphs.

  • You write strong essays and want a Writing score for certain colleges.

  • Nearby scholarship programs highlight ACT numbers.

Practical Factors That Also Matter

  • Test Dates: The SAT has seven national dates each year; the ACT has six. Pick one that fits around big exams, sports, or festivals.

  • Location: Some rural U.S. areas host the ACT more often, while many international sites favour the SAT.

  • Cost: Base fees sit near USD 60. Late changes add up, so register early.

  • Score Release Speed: Digital SAT scores often arrive within days; ACT multiple‑choice scores appear in about two weeks.

Accommodations and Accessibility

Both test makers offer extra time, enlarged print, screen readers, and other supports for students with documented needs.

  • SAT: Requests go through your school’s SSD coordinator and may take a month to approve, so start early.

  • ACT: Choose National Extended Time (at test centres) or Special Testing (at your school over multiple days). Processing times are similar.

If you qualify for accommodations, mark approval deadlines when selecting a test date. The right support can boost comfort and accuracy.

How to Decide in Four Steps

  1. Take Official Practice Tests. Both companies post free full‑length exams online. Mimic real timing and settings.

  2. Compare Percentile Ranks, Not Raw Scores. A 1250 SAT roughly equals a 26 ACT. Use official concordance charts for fairness.

  3. Check Your Target Colleges. Some engineering programs ask for higher math sub‑scores, for example. Read each school’s fine print.

  4. Focus Your Prep. Once you pick a test, stick with it. Switching back and forth wastes energy.

Tips for Efficient Prep

  • Set a Score Goal Early. Use the median scores at your dream colleges as targets.

  • Use Official Questions First. They mirror what you will see on test day.

  • Practice Under Real Timing. Speed beats content for many students.

  • Review Every Missed Question. Look for patterns in your errors.

  • Take Breaks. A fresh mind absorbs facts faster.

  • Join a Small Study Group. Teaching friends helps you remember concepts.

  • Mind Your Health. Steady sleep, balanced meals, and light exercise sharpen focus better than late‑night cramming.

  • Rehearse Test‑Day Logistics. Know the route to the centre, required ID, and items that must stay outside the room.

Final Thoughts

The SAT and ACT aim at the same goal: to prove you are ready for first‑year college classes. They just travel different roads to get there. Think of your choice like picking comfortable running shoes; the right fit lets you perform at your best. Use official practice material, set a clear timeline, and commit to one path. Soon the test will be one finished task on your college journey.