One of your first college admissions decisions is deciding whether to take the ACT, SAT, or both. As you read, you’ll discover there is no wrong or right answer to this question. Instead, keep an open mind and see which test best aligns with your skills and dream college’s admission requirements.
What are the ACTs and SATs?
The ACT and SAT are standardized entrance exams designed to measure college readiness. They assess your academic skills and predict how well you might perform in college without additional support.
Strong scores can improve your chances of admission and may open the door to scholarships and merit-based financial aid.
Do I still need to take the SAT or ACT if they’re optional??
The short answer: yes, you probably do.
- Test optional policies help students who struggle with standardized testing.
- But competition has increased, as more applicants are eligible for selective schools.
- Scholarships, honors programs, and certain majors still require test scores.
Having strong ACT or SAT results, in addition to a high GPA, strong essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations, can give you an edge in admissions and financial aid.
If you’re unsure how to improve your current GPA or how to write your college essay, C2 Education can help.
What’s the Difference Between the ACT and SAT?
The three key differences between the ACT and SAT are time, sections, and scores. Choosing the best fit for you depends on your familiarity with each section and the time provided to complete them. Neither test has a guessing penalty, so students should answer as many questions as possible.
#1: Timing
The time provided to answer a question could be a huge factor when choosing the best test for you. While having extra time is nice, consider why that time may be factored into the exam.
Timing for the ACT and SAT
The ACT offers two versions: one with an essay and one without.
The ACT without the essay provides 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete 215 multiple-choice questions. This means you have roughly 50 seconds to complete each question. Remember, there is no guessing penalty for the ACT, so answer as many questions as you can.
The ACT with an essay provides the same 2 hours and 55 minutes for 215 multiple choice questions. Once complete, you’ll have an additional 40 minutes for your essay. This brings the total test time to roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes.
The SAT gives you 3 hours to answer 154 multiple-choice questions. This means you have roughly 70 seconds to complete each question. Keep in mind, the questions on the SAT aren’t as straightforward as those on the ACT hence the extra time.
Like the ACT, the SAT does not have a guessing penalty. Do your best to answer as many questions as possible.
#2: Test Sections
Both exams include reading, writing, and math, but the ACT includes a science section that tests data interpretation and analysis.
- ACT English (75 questions, 45 minutes): Grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills.
- SAT Writing & Language (44 questions, 35 minutes): Grammar, vocabulary in context, and editing.
- ACT Reading (40 questions, 35 minutes): Four passages with questions testing comprehension, inference, and analysis.
- SAT Reading (52 questions, 65 minutes): Five passages across literature, history, social studies, and science.
- ACT Math (60 questions, 60 minutes): Algebra, geometry, trigonometry. Calculators are allowed.
- SAT Math: Split into no calculator (25 minutes) and calculator (55 minutes) sections.
- ACT Science (40 questions, 35 minutes): Focuses on data analysis, trends, and predictions across science topics.
- ACT Optional Essay (40 minutes): Some schools require it. The SAT essay was discontinued in 2021.
3. Scoring
- ACT: Scored on a scale of 1 to 36.
- SAT: Scored on a scale of 400 to 1600.
Colleges often use concordance tables to compare scores, but since updates occur regularly, you should focus on whichever test best fits your strengths.
Which Test is Right for You?
Which Test Is Right for You?
There is no single answer. To decide between the ACT and SAT:
- Take a diagnostic test for each exam to compare your performance.
- Evaluate timing: Do you work better with fewer, more complex questions (SAT) or faster-paced, straightforward questions (ACT)?
- Check requirements: Review the test preferences of your target colleges and scholarship programs.
- Consider your strengths: Strong in science and data interpretation? ACT may be the better fit. Strong in vocabulary and reading comprehension? SAT might work in your favor.
C2 Education offers full-length diagnostic exams and expert guidance to help you decide which test is right for you.
Consider the time and what to expect for each section when making your decision. Check out our webinar for ways to make informed decisions based on test information.
ACT vs. SAT FAQs
Is the ACT easier than the SAT?
Neither test is inherently easier. The ACT has more questions but they are generally more straightforward, while the SAT has fewer but more complex questions.
Do colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?
No. Colleges accept both equally. Focus on the test that best highlights your strengths.
Should I take both the SAT and ACT?
It depends on your goals. Some students benefit from taking both, but most should focus on whichever test gives them the strongest score.
Can I get scholarships with ACT or SAT scores?
Yes. Many merit-based scholarships and honors programs require standardized test scores. Higher scores can significantly increase your scholarship opportunities.
How do I know which test is right for me?
The best way is to take a practice test for both the SAT and ACT, then compare your comfort level, timing, and scores.
