Choosing between the SAT and ACT can feel overwhelming, especially when both tests are accepted by virtually every USA university. The truth is, there’s no universally “better” test—only the test that’s better for you.
This guide will help you understand the key differences and determine which test aligns with your strengths, learning style, and university goals.
The Basics: SAT vs ACT at a Glance
SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)
- Duration: 3 hours
- Sections: Reading, Writing & Language, Mathematics (with and without calculator)
- Scoring: 400-1600 total (200-800 per section)
- Question Style: Focus on reasoning and analysis
- Mathematics: Algebra, geometry, some trigonometry
ACT (American College Testing)
- Duration: 2 hours 5 minutes (2 hours 40 minutes with optional Science)
- Sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, optional Science, optional Writing
- Scoring: 1-36 composite score (average of three core sections: English, Maths, Reading)
- Question Style: More straightforward, curriculum-based
- Mathematics: Broader scope including trigonometry and pre-calculus
Key Differences That Matter
Pace and Timing
SAT: More time per question, allowing for deeper analysis and careful consideration.
ACT: The 2025 enhanced ACT has significantly more time per question than the previous version, with 44 fewer questions overall. This brings the ACT’s pacing closer to the SAT’s more relaxed timing.
Both tests now offer adequate time for careful consideration, making this less of a differentiating factor.
Mathematics Content
SAT Mathematics:
- Two sections (with and without a calculator)
- Heavy emphasis on algebra and data analysis
- Some geometry and basic trigonometry
- Formula sheet provided
ACT Mathematics:
- Calculator allowed throughout
- Broader mathematical scope, including pre-calculus
- More geometry questions
- No formula sheet provided
Strong in advanced maths? The ACT might play to your strengths. Prefer algebra and having formulas provided? Consider the SAT.
Science Reasoning
SAT: No dedicated science section, but scientific concepts appear in reading passages.
ACT: Science section is now optional (starting April 2025 for online tests, September 2025 for all formats). When taken, it tests interpretation of data, graphs, and experimental design, but doesn’t count towards the composite score.
Note: The optional Science section provides a separate STEM score when combined with the Maths section. Consider taking it if applying to science or engineering programmes.
Reading Approaches
SAT Reading:
- Longer, more complex passages
- Heavy emphasis on evidence-based reasoning
- Questions about the author’s intent and literary devices
ACT Reading:
- Four passages (prose fiction, social science, humanities, natural science)
- More straightforward comprehension questions
- Faster pace required
Essay Component
SAT Essay: Optional, analytical essay analysing an argument (discontinued as of 2021).
ACT Writing: Optional, 40-minute essay presenting your perspective on a contemporary issue.
Most UK students won’t need the essay component, but check specific university requirements.
How to Decide: A Practical Approach
Consider Your Academic Strengths
Choose SAT if you:
- Prefer having more time to think through problems
- Excel at close reading and textual analysis
- Are stronger in algebra than in advanced mathematics
- Like having mathematical formulas provided
Choose ACT if you:
- Prefer the flexibility of optional sections (Science, Writing)
- Are comfortable with advanced mathematics (trigonometry, pre-calculus)
- Want a shorter overall test experience (just over 2 hours for core sections)
- Prefer more straightforward question formats
Think About Your Test-Taking Style
Methodical Approach → SAT
- You like to carefully consider each answer
- You often change answers after reflection
- You prefer depth over speed
Efficient Approach → Either Test Both the SAT and enhanced ACT now offer reasonable pacing, so your working style is less of a determining factor than it was previously.
Preparation Strategies
For the SAT:
- Khan Academy: Free, personalised practice linked to College Board
- Focus Areas: Reading comprehension, algebra, evidence-based writing
- Timeline: 3-6 months of consistent practice
For the ACT:
- Official ACT Prep: ACT Academy offers free resources
- Focus Areas: Advanced mathematics, optional Science section strategy, shorter reading passages
- Timeline: 2-4 months of intensive practice
- Key Decision: Whether to take the optional Science section (recommended for STEM applicants)
Universal Tips:
- Take your first practice test untimed to gauge content knowledge
- Then practice with strict timing to build speed
- Focus on your weakest sections, but don’t neglect strengths
- Take multiple practice tests under realistic conditions
Retaking and Super-scoring
Retaking: Both tests can be retaken multiple times. Most students see score improvements with proper preparation.
Super-scoring: Many universities consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates, so retaking can only help (check individual university policies).
Special Circumstances
Learning Differences
Both tests offer accommodations for students with documented learning differences:
- Extended time
- Separate testing room
- Large-print materials
- Computer-based testing
Apply for accommodations well in advance through your school’s learning support department.
International Students
Both tests are available internationally, though ACT test centres are less common in some countries, particularly in the UK. Check availability in your region when planning your test timeline.
Making Your Final Decision
With the 2025 ACT changes, both tests now offer:
- Reasonable pacing with adequate time per question
- Comparable test lengths (SAT: 3 hours, ACT core: 2 hours)
- Flexibility in optional sections
Your choice should focus on:
- Take practice tests of both SAT and ACT
- Compare your scores using official conversion charts
- Consider which felt more comfortable during practice
- Check your target universities’ specific requirements
- Factor in test availability and preparation time in your area
Remember: the “best” test is simply the one where you can achieve your highest score. Don’t overthink it—both tests effectively measure college readiness, and universities truly treat them equally.
Next Steps
Ready to make your choice? Here’s your action plan:
- Download our free SAT/ACT comparison worksheet to track your practice test results
- Create a study timeline based on your target test dates
- Register for your chosen test at least 6-8 weeks in advance
- Begin consistent preparation using official resources
Your standardised test score is just one component of your university application, but choosing the right test can help you present your academic abilities in the best possible light.
