If you’ve done some research into college applications in the United States, you’ve likely come across countless schools that require you to send your SAT or ACT scores. What are these exams, and how do you know which one you should take? Read on!
What are the SAT and the ACT tests?
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) and the American College Testing (ACT) exam are both standardized tests that are almost universally recognized by American universities. Students in the U.S. typically take these exams during their third and fourth years of high school—often more than once—and submit their scores as part of their college applications.
Both exams cover reading, writing, and mathematical reasoning. Each exam takes approximately 3 to 3½ hours to complete. You can take both exams multiple times in order to improve your score.
How are they different?
The main differences between the SAT and the ACT boil down to content and scoring.
Whereas the SAT tends to favor slightly longer, more complex texts, the ACT readings are usually simpler (typically at a 9th grade level). However, the SAT gives you significantly more time to answer each question—about 20 seconds more per question, on average. In essence, the SAT’s reading section is more complicated but slower-paced, and the ACT’s reading section is simpler but fast-paced, with a separate science section that tests your ability to read and interpret scientific data.
One of the most notable math differences is that the SAT includes a no-calculator section, whereas the ACT allows a calculator for every question. The ACT’s math section is entirely multiple-choice, whereas the SAT requires you to produce some answers on your own. The ACT has greater emphasis on geometry and trigonometry.
The SAT is graded on a scale of 1600 (EBRW out of 800 plus Math out of 800), with an average score of about 1050. The ACT is graded out of 36, with your composite score being the average of 4 sub-scores (English, Math, Reading, Science), and an average of about 21.
A key takeaway: a low score on 1 of the 2 SAT sections will bring down your total grade more significantly than a low score on 1 of the 4 ACT sections. If you are significantly weaker in one particular subject, you might do better with the ACT’s method of scoring.
Another aspect to consider is “superscoring.” Some colleges only look at your best scores on each individual section across multiple test dates. It is slightly more common to superscore the SAT than the ACT.
Which one should I take?
If you have particularly strong verbal skills, then you might do better on the SAT. Its reading section tends to be more complex but gives you more time. If you’re the kind of student who can easily focus and finish tests on time (or early!), then you’ll likely achieve a strong score on the ACT. If you prefer to take your time and carefully consider each question, the SAT is probably your best bet.
I’m still not sure which test is right for me!
The two tests are very similar; most people who take both end up receiving quite comparable scores. Since you are able to take both exams multiple times (and find free practice tests online), you can see for yourself if you perform significantly better on one versus the other.
Remember that standardized testing is just one part of your college application. Colleges—including the top schools in the country—accept applicants with a wide range of scores. The best advice is to study for one of the exams, perhaps with a few practice tests, and remember to stay calm and do your best.
Author
With a Bachelor's (LLB) from UCL and Assas, and the Grande Ecole program at HEC Paris, Adam has over 10 years of experience in education and student mentoring. Passionate about helping students achieve their academic dreams, he co-founded Your Dream School to guide students through university admissions and interview preparation for top global institutions.
