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ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?

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By:CANAM Group
Updated On:Apr 12,2025 05:40 PM IST

ACT and SAT exams assess students across the same areas, which are reading, math, and writing. However, they differ based on scoring, format, and content.
The ACT exam is conducted seven times a year, while the SAT exam takes place eight times a year.
Both ACT and SAT help to get into top colleges and universities in the USA, but which one is right? Find out in this blog.

Many colleges and universities require students to submit scores from the SAT or ACT- both recognized standardized exams as part of the admission process. Each test is unique regarding subjects covered, structure and scoring scales. However, both are used to measure students’ proficiency, knowledge and skills in core areas such as reading, writing and math.

This blog will help in understanding the fundamental components of each standardized test and the key differences between the ACT and SAT.

What is ACT?

ACT, short for American College Testing, is a standard exam for international students to study at American universities and colleges. It has five sections: English, Math, Reading, Science, and Writing (optional). It scores candidates on a scale of 1 to 36. Just like ACT, there is one more exam that US universities use to give admission to international students, which is the SAT.

What is SAT?

The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is another standard exam used by universities and colleges in the USA to provide admission to international students. It measures candidates’ skills across three areas: Reading, Writing & Language, and Math. It’s a computer-based, multiple-choice test. Candidates are scored out of 1600, with each section (Reading & Writing, Mathematics) having a weightage of 800 points.

ACT vs SAT

Many students dream of pursuing their higher education in the US and hence, a thorough research on how one can apply for their dream university in the US plays a vital role.

The ACT and the SAT are both standardized tests used for admissions in the US universities and colleges.
They are designed to measure a student’s readiness for college-level coursework. While both tests serve the same purpose, there are some differences in their structure and content.
The SAT tends to focus more on grammar and punctuation. The math sections of both tests cover similar material, but the SAT includes more advanced topics such as trigonometry and higher-level algebra.

Comparison of the ACT and SAT Tests

Here are the key differences between an ACT and SAT exam:

	SAT	ACT
Why take it	Colleges use SAT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships.	Colleges use ACT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships.
Test Structure	• Reading • Writing and Language • Math	• English • Math • Reading • Science Reasoning • Essay (Optional)
Length	3 hours	2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay) 3 hours, 35 minutes (with essay)
Reading	5 reading passages	4 reading passages
Science	None	1 science section testing one’s critical thinking skills (not one’s specific science knowledge)- STEM preferred
Math	Covers: • Arithmetic • Algebra I and II • Geometry, Trigonometry and Data Analysis	Covers: • Arithmetic • Algebra I and II • Geometry, Trigonometry, and Probability and Statistics
Calculator Policy	Some math questions don’t allow one to use a calculator	One can use a calculator on all math questions
Essays	No essay	Optional. The essay will test how well one evaluates and analyses complex issues.
How its scored	Scored on a scale of 400-1600	Scored on a scale of 1-36

ACT vs SAT : Should one take the ACT or SAT?

It has become an ambition to study in the USA for Indian students and aim for better future career prospects. If both tests are equally challenging, which one should the student take? Students should first evaluate where their natural abilities lie. In general, students who enjoy writing, literature, and verbal communication tend to prefer the ACT, while those with a mathematical mind prefer the SAT.

1. Strong Math Skills

The ACT only has a calculator section that accounts for about 25% of the overall score. If math is not one’s strong point, taking the ACT may be a better option.

2. Practice Both Tests

Students can practice both tests and try taking a practice test for each. Compare scores for SAT and ACT and also analyse how they felt about the questions and which one felt easier for them.

3. Take Both Tests

There’s nothing wrong with taking both tests. While this means one has to study for both tests, it also means that one can submit their best score. Although they can take the tests more than once, universities discourage taking the test more than three times.

ACT vs SAT : How are they similar?

The ACT and SAT share several similarities. Colleges and universities often accept both exams as part of their admission processes and to determine scholarship awards for incoming students. Here are some similarities between the ACT and the SAT exams:

1. Same Format: Both the ACT and SAT evaluate similar topics, including reading, writing and mathematics. On both tests, the reading, writing and language sections are entirely passage-based. These sections measure student’s proficiency in key areas that help determine college readiness.

2. No Negative Marking: Neither exam penalizes students for incorrect or blank answers. Both award points for correct answers.

How are they different?

Although the SAT and ACT share many similarities, some key distinctions are worth noting. Below are some key differences between the two tests.

1. Scoring scales and ranges

SAT scores range from 400-1600, and ACT composite scores range from 1 to 36.

2. Test format and sections

The SAT includes reading, writing and language, math (with calculator) and math (no calculator). The ACT includes English, math, reading and science.

3. Calculator rules

The SAT includes a section in which the use of calculators is not allowed. ACT test-takers can use a calculator for all math questions.

4. Test Length and Number of Questions

The SAT is three hours long. The ACT is two hours and 55 minutes without the essay section, with the essay, it is three hours and 35 minutes long, while the SAT is without the essay with a duration of 2 hours and 14 minutes.

5. Science Section

Unlike the ACT, the SAT does not have a dedicated science section but includes science questions within the maths section.

6. Maths Section

Both tests cover arithmetic, algebra I and II, geometry and trigonometry, but the SAT also covers data analysis, while the ACT covers probability and statistics.

SAT Structure

Reading and Writing - 64 minutes for 54 questions
Math test- 70 minutes for 44 questions

Scoring Scale

The highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.

ACT Structure

The ACT is composed of four primary tests and an optional essay section.

English- 45 minutes for 75 questions
Math- 60 minutes for 60 questions
Reading- 35 minutes for 40 questions
Science Reasoning- 35 minutes for 40 questions
Essay- (optional)- 40 minutes

Scoring Scale

The number of questions answered correctly is converted to a score of 1 to 36 for each of the four tests. The highest score one can achieve on the ACT is 36. However, the average test score was 19.8. No points are deducted for incorrect answers, and there’s no penalty for guessing.

ACT vs SAT : Test Preparation Tips

Here are the best tips to prepare for both the ACT and SAT exams:

1. Start early to get an advantage over competitors.

2. Take practice tests for both exams to identify your strengths and weaknesses.

3. Use online preparation resources like test prep books, YouTube videos, and AI tools.

4. Learn to manage your time efficiently so you can review answers in the end.

5. Study strictly during the decided time and take breaks to refresh.

ACT vs SAT Exam Fee

In addition to the differences in format and content, there are also important distinctions between the fees associated with the SAT and ACT exams.

Exam Fee	ACT (International fee )
The full ACT (no writing)	$186.50
The full ACT with writing	$211.50

Exam	SAT (International Fee)
Without Essay	$103

For more detailed information on ACT and SAT exams, contact Canam Consultants, the leading overseas study consultants in India.

Conclusion

The key to achieving success in the SAT or ACT is preparation. If one takes necessary steps to prepare for the tests, understand each test’s objective, and choose the one that matches one’s learning and test style, one has the best chance of succeeding. Ultimately, the decision between the two exams should be based on individual strengths and preferences. It is recommended that you take both tests and practice tests to determine which one is the better fit. If you still have any doubts, you can connect with expert study abroad consultants.

FAQ

Do Colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?

Most colleges and universities accept both the SAT and ACT and do not prefer one exam to the other.

How does ACT compare to SAT?

The ACT measures achievement related to high school curricula, while the SAT measures general verbal and quantitative reasoning.

How many SAT and ACT attempts are allowed?

Students can take the SAT and ACT exams as often as they want. SAT is administered seven times a year in India.

How much does the SAT and ACT cost in India?

The SAT exam fee is $111 (without essay), including a non-US regional fee. The ACT exam fee is $186.50 (without writing) and 211.50 (with writing).

What is the age limit for SAT and ACT in India?

There is no age limit set by the College Board to take the SAT and ACT exams.

Which is better, SAT or ACT exam?

Both the SAT and ACT exams have a similar format. However, the SAT exam has more advanced maths topics.

Is the SAT harder than the ACT?

Both the SAT and ACT exams are the same, as universities and colleges in the USA accept them. So neither of them is harder than the other.

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ACT vs. SAT: Which One to Choose?

Table of Contents

What is ACT?

What is SAT?

ACT vs SAT

Comparison of the ACT and SAT Tests

ACT vs SAT : Should one take the ACT or SAT?

1. Strong Math Skills

2. Practice Both Tests

3. Take Both Tests

ACT vs SAT : How are they similar?

How are they different?

1. Scoring scales and ranges

2. Test format and sections

3. Calculator rules

4. Test Length and Number of Questions

5. Science Section

6. Maths Section

SAT Structure

Scoring ScaleThe highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.

ACT Structure

Scoring Scale

ACT vs SAT : Test Preparation Tips

ACT vs SAT Exam Fee

Conclusion

FAQ

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Scoring Scale

The highest score a test-taker can earn on the SAT is 1600. The average SAT score is 1050, and students are not penalized for incorrect or unanswered questions.