Colleges that use test scores accept the SAT and the ACT equally, so the right test is the one where your student scores better. The SAT is digital and adaptive with two sections. The ACT covers English, math and reading, with science optional, and asks more questions per minute. The surest way to choose is a full, timed practice test of each, then a comparison of the results.
How the two tests differ
Both tests measure reading, writing and math skills learned in high school. The differences are in structure, pace and a few content areas.
Format and pace
- SAT: taken on a computer and adaptive, meaning the second half of each section adjusts to how the student did on the first. It gives more time per question than the ACT.
- ACT: available on paper or on a computer, depending on the test site. Recent changes made it shorter, but it still moves faster per question, which rewards students who read and decide quickly.
Sections and content
- SAT: reading and writing, then math. Reading passages are short, with one question each. A calculator is allowed on the whole math section.
- ACT: English, math and reading make up the core and the composite score. Science is now optional and is scored separately, and there is an optional writing section. Reading passages are longer, with several questions per passage.
Scoring
- The SAT is scored from 400 to 1600. The ACT composite runs from 1 to 36.
- Official comparison tables (often called concordance tables) translate one scale to the other, so scores can be compared directly.
- Many colleges superscore, combining a student’s best section scores across test dates. Policies vary by college and by test.
How to tell which test suits your student
- Take one full practice test of each, timed, in one sitting, under realistic conditions. Free official practice tests exist for both.
- Convert the scores with a concordance table and compare. A clear gap usually settles it.
- If scores are close, ask how each one felt. Which pace was more comfortable? Did the long ACT reading passages drag, or did the adaptive SAT format feel stressful?
- Look at strengths. Students who read fast and like straightforward questions often prefer the ACT. Students who like more time to think, or who find shorter passages easier, often lean toward the SAT.
- Then commit. Splitting prep between two tests usually means doing neither well.
If a student already has a PSAT score, that predicts SAT performance and can count as the SAT side of the comparison. See the PSAT explained.
Do colleges prefer one test?
No. Colleges that consider scores accept either test and do not favor one. What does differ from college to college is policy: whether scores are required, optional or ignored, whether the college superscores and whether it wants every score or only the ones you choose to send. Our guide to test-optional admissions explains those policies, and each college’s admissions page has the current details.
A few practical factors can tip the decision. Some states give juniors one of the two tests free during the school day, which means one official score at no cost. Merit scholarships at some colleges and state programs list score ranges for either test.
Other things to weigh
- Test dates and calendar. Pick the test whose dates fit around sports, performances, AP exams and finals.
- Test sites. Check which test centers near you offer each test, and in which format.
- Accommodations. Both tests have a process for students with documented disabilities, usually requested through the school, and approval takes time. Start early.
- Fee waivers. Students who qualify for fee waivers can often get help with registration and score sending. Ask the counselor.
- Anxiety. If either format triggers serious test anxiety, factor that in. See test anxiety in teens.
Where a mentor helps
A mentor does not teach test content, but choosing a test is a decision, and decisions stall without a plan. A mentor can help a student schedule both practice tests, talk through the results honestly, then build a weekly prep routine that fits around school and activities, with a check-in to keep it going. Parents get regular updates. Learn more about mentoring for high school students.
Related
- When to take the SAT or ACT
- The PSAT explained
- High school to college calendar
- Mentor vs tutor: what is the difference
Common questions
Is the ACT easier than the SAT?
Neither is easier overall. Each suits different students, which is why a timed practice test of each is the best way to decide.
Should my teen take both the SAT and the ACT?
Usually not for official scores. Take a practice test of each, choose one and focus prep there, unless the school gives one test free during the school day.
Does the ACT still have a science section?
Science is now optional on the ACT and scored separately from the composite. Some colleges or programs may want it, so check the requirements of colleges on the list.
Can my teen use a calculator on the SAT?
Yes, a calculator is allowed on the whole SAT math section. The ACT also allows a calculator on math. Check each test’s current calculator policy before test day.
Get started
Want help turning a test choice into a weekly plan? Call (888) 305 5422, email contact@blackburnmentoring.com or start with a short assessment. A member of our team reviews every assessment personally and sets up a free intro call.