CONFUSED ABOUT SAT OR ACT?
Want to go to the USA and not sure which exam to take SAT or ACT? Dont worry! Read below for a quick comparison chart on SAT and ACT.
Most colleges and universities will accept scores from either the SAT or ACT and do not favour one test over the other. That said, college-bound students are increasingly taking both the SAT and ACT. Changes made to the SAT in 2016 have made it easier than ever to prep for both tests concurrently and earn competitive scores on both! The best way to decide if taking the SAT, ACT, or both tests is right for you is to take a timed full-length practice test of each type. Since the content and style of the SAT and ACT are very similar, factors like how you handle time pressure and what types of questions you find most challenging can help you determine which test is a better fit.
TEST COMPARISON SAT & ACT |
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| Features |
SAT |
ACT |
| Widely accepted | All US colleges | All US colleges |
| Everyday math formulas provided | Yes | No |
| Tests the vocabulary you’ll use | Yes | Yes |
| Essay is optional | Yes | Yes |
| Penalty for guessing | No | No |
| Structure and Timing |
SAT |
ACT |
| Testing time | 3 hours + 50-minute essay (optional) |
2 hours 55 minutes + 40-minute essay (optional) |
| Structure | 3 tests + optional essay | 4 tests + optional writing test |
| Number of questions | 154 | 215 |
| Time per question | 1 minute, 10 seconds | 49 seconds |
| Score range | Composite 400 – 1600 (SAT Essay: Reported in 3 Areas, Each 2 – 8) | Composite 1 – 36
Writing Scores: 2 – 12 |
| Test components | Reading Test 65 minutes 52 questions Writing and Language Test 35 minutes 44 questions Math Test 80 minutes 58 questions |
Reading Test 35 minutes 40 questions English Test 45 minutes 75 questions Math Test 60 minutes 60 questions Science Test 35 minutes 40 questions |
Still not clear, which test you want to focus on. Consult BrainEdge Admissions Team for a quick discussion and clear all your doubts.
