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College Entrance Exams:
SAT vs ACT... What's the difference?
SAT vs ACT... What's the difference?
Sections
Reading & Writing + Math
English + Math + Reading; Science optional
Length
2 hr. 14 min.
2 hr. 5 min. for the 3 core sections
Scoring
400–1600, superscoring available
1–36, superscoring available
Format
Digital
Digital or paper options available
Question Style
More emphasis on reasoning, interpreting information & applying skills
More direct testing of learned academic skills, with a faster pace
Penalties
No penalty for guessing, so answer all questions.
No penalty for guessing, so answer all questions.
Science
No separate science section; data interpretation appears within other questions
Optional Science section focused on interpreting data, experiments & evidence
You may prefer this test if you...
Like having a little more time to think through problems
Are strong at reasoning, analyzing evidence, and problem-solving
Prefer short reading passages instead of longer passages with several questions
Like using a calculator throughout Math
Are comfortable with a digital, adaptive test
Work quickly and accurately
Like more straightforward questions
Are good at recalling and applying concepts you've learned in class
Prefer English, Math, and Reading to be clearly separated
Are particularly strong at interpreting graphs/data and choose to take Science
💡 Best way to decide:
Take a practice test for both. Compare your scores and which testing style felt more natural.
SAT Study Materials & Practice Tests
SAT Study Materials & Practice Tests
ACT Study Materials & Practice Tests
ACT Study Materials & Practice Tests
SAT/ACT: Tips, Tricks, & Other Important Info
SAT/ACT: Tips, Tricks, & Other Important Info
Wondering when you should start thinking about college entrance exams like the SAT and ACT? It's never too early to start preparing!
The PSAT is available to students in grades 8–11 and is a great way to get familiar with college entrance exams before taking the real thing! While PSAT scores cannot be used for college admissions, certain scores may qualify students for prestigious academic recognition and scholarship opportunities, including the National Merit Scholarship Program.
Students are encouraged to begin taking the official SAT and ACT during their junior year. Starting early gives you plenty of time to prepare, identify areas for improvement, and retake the exams if needed before senior-year college application deadlines.Â
Whether you're just beginning to explore your options or getting ready to apply to college, here are some important tips and reminders to help you prepare, maximize your scores, and keep your options open for college admissions and scholarships!
Don't limit your options! Many colleges require SAT/ACT scores for admission, while others may use them for scholarships or special programs. Even if your dream school is test-optional, taking the SAT or ACT can help you keep your options open!
Don't wait until senior year! Taking the SAT or ACT during your junior year gives you plenty of time to retake it if needed. Waiting until the last minute could leave you scrambling to meet college application or scholarship deadlines.
Take it multiple times! Many schools will "superscore", meaning they consider your highest score in each section, even if they come from different test dates. So check your prospective schools' superscore policy and don't be afraid to try again!
Sign up early! Don't wait until the deadline to sign up. Seats can fill up quickly, which could cause you to drive to a location that's further away than you like.
Don't mix up the regular deadline and the late deadline! There's no sense in paying a late fee just because you were looking at the wrong deadline.
Don't forget to send your scores! Taking the SAT/ACT doesn't automatically mean your colleges have received your scores. Check each school's requirements to determine whether you need to submit an official score report or can self-report your scores on your application.
Fee waivers! If you come from a low-income family or need help paying for your SAT, email your counselor. You may qualify for a SAT/ACT fee waiver.
Study, study, study! There are lots of free resources available online.
Don't just take practice tests -- learn from them! Pay attention to the questions you miss and spend extra time studying those topics. Understanding WHY you missed a question is one of the most useful ways to prepare for your next test.
Try both tests! The SAT and ACT are different, and you may find that one plays to your strengths more than the other. You don't have to commit to just one, so try them both!
Know your college application deadlines! Make sure you take the SAT/ACT early enough for your scores to be available by your college's deadline. Remember, scores aren't available immediately after you test!
Know your college's score requirements! Every college is different. Some require test scores for admission, while others are test-optional. Certain scholarships, honors programs, and academic programs may also have their own testing requirements.
Don't forget about scholarships! Even if your college doesn't require the SAT or ACT for admission, your scores could help you qualify for additional scholarships or merit-based financial aid.
Need testing accommodations? Plan ahead! If you receive testing accommodations at school, speak with your counselor well before registering. Accommodations for the SAT/ACT may require a separate approval process, so don't assume they will automatically carry over.
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