Testing

Scores

The SAT is scored on a scale of 400-1600

The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36

Questions

SAT questions require more time to understand and answer

ACT questions tend to be more straightforward

Reading

The SAT has FIVE reading passages

The ACT has FOUR reading passages

Science

If you're a true science-phobe the SAT might be a better fit

The ACT has a Science section that tests your critical thinking skills

Math

Both tests have the same advanced math concepts: Arithmetic, Algebra I & II, Geometry and Trigonometry

Calculator

You do NOT get a calculator on all the math questions on the SAT

You get a calculator for ALL math questions on the ACT

Essay

50 minutes, The SAT essay section is more comprehension focused

40 minutes, The ACT wants to see how well you can evaluate and analyze complex issues

Score Submission

You can submit the best score from each part of the SATs from all the times you have attempted the exam

You can only submit your best composite score from each individual ACT exam