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SAT vs. ACT: Which Test Is Right for My Student?

The SAT and ACT are college entrance exams used by many colleges and universities as part of the admissions and scholarship process. Although the tests measure many of the same college-readiness skills, their formats are different.

There is no single “better” test for every student. Some students naturally perform better on the SAT, while others prefer the style and pacing of the ACT.

SAT at a Glance

The SAT is a digital, adaptive test with two main sections:

• Reading and Writing

• Math

The SAT takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes and provides more time per question than the ACT. Reading passages are generally short, with one question connected to each passage. Students also have access to a built-in graphing calculator during the Math section.

The SAT may be a good fit for students who:

• Prefer having more time to think through each question

• Like shorter reading passages

• Are comfortable taking tests on a computer

• Prefer fewer subject-area sections

• Like using a built-in graphing calculator for math

• Feel comfortable with an adaptive test, where the difficulty of later questions is influenced by earlier performance

ACT at a Glance

The ACT includes three required sections:

• English

• Math

• Reading

Students may also choose to take an optional Science section and/or optional Writing section.

Unlike the SAT's adaptive format, the ACT follows a more traditional linear testing format. Students generally move through more questions at a faster pace.

The ACT may be a good fit for students who:

• Work quickly and are comfortable with faster-paced testing

• Prefer a traditional, non-adaptive test

• Do well with longer reading passages

• Like straightforward questions organized by subject area

• Are strong in interpreting graphs, charts, experiments, and scientific information and want to demonstrate those skills through the optional Science section

• Prefer the option of paper or digital testing when available

SAT vs. ACT — What's the Difference?

So, Which One Should My Student Take?

Start with the test that best matches your student's strengths.

Consider the SAT if your student prefers a little more time per question, shorter reading passages, digital testing, and a built-in calculator.

Consider the ACT if your student is a quick test-taker, prefers a traditional testing format, is comfortable with longer reading passages, or enjoys working with scientific data and graphs.

What If We Still Aren't Sure?

That's completely normal!

One of the best ways to decide is to have your student take a full-length practice SAT and ACT. Compare not only the scores, but also how your student felt while taking each test.

Ask:

• Which test felt easier to understand?

• Which test's timing felt more comfortable?

• Which format did you prefer?

• On which test did you earn the stronger score?

Students do not necessarily need to take both exams. Once a student determines which test is the better fit, it may be more beneficial to focus preparation on that exam rather than dividing study time between both.

Do Colleges Prefer the SAT or ACT?

Generally, colleges that accept standardized test scores accept both the SAT and ACT without preferring one over the other.

However, college admission and scholarship requirements can change. Some schools are test-optional, while others may require SAT or ACT scores. Certain scholarships or specialized programs may also have their own testing requirements.

Students should always check the current admission and scholarship requirements for the colleges they are considering.

Not sure where to start? Stop by the Counseling Office! I am happy to help students review their college goals, testing options, and next steps.