FAQ > Frequently Asked Admissions Questions > What's the difference between the SAT and ACT?

ACT and the SAT?

Both the ACT and the SAT are nationally administered standardized tests that help colleges evaluate candidates. Most colleges and universities accept either test. So as you begin to think about college and creating the best application package possible, your admissions plan should begin with the question, "Which test should I take?" When weighing your options, keep in mind that there are differences in test structure and the type of content assessed. Use the chart below to see which test makes the most of your strengths to help you determine which test might be best for you.

 

ACT

SAT

Test Length

3 hours, 25 minutes
(including the 30-minute optional Writing Test)

3 hours, 45 minutes

Test Structure

4 Test Sections (5 with the optional Writing Test):
English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing (Optional),
Experimental Test (sometimes added and clearly labeled)

10 Sections: 3 Critical Reading, 3 Math, 3 Writing (including the Essay), 1 Experimental (unscored but included as a regular section)

» Reading

Reading Comprehension—4 passages with 10 questions per passage

Reading Comprehension—short and long passages with questions
Sentence Completion

» Math

Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, algebra II, and trigonometry

Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and algebra II

» Science

Analysis, interpretation, evaluation, basic content, and problem solving

Science not included

» Essay

Last thing you do (optional): 30 minutes

•· Not included in composite score

•· Topic of importance to high school students

First thing you do: 25 minutes

•· Factored into overall score

•· More abstract topic (vs. ACT)

Scoring

Composite score of 1–36, based on average
of scores from 4 tests

•· 4 scores of 1–36 for each test

•· Plus optional Writing Test Score of 0–12

Total score out of 600–2400, based on adding
scores from 3 subjects

•· 3 scores of 200–800 for each subject

•· Score of 0–12 for the Essay

Wrong Answer Penalty

No penalty for wrong answers.

¼ point subtracted for each wrong answer.
(except for Math Grid-In questions)

Sending Score History

You decide which score is sent

Your entire score history will be sent automatically.

NEW—Beginning with Class of 2010, you decide which
test score is sent.

Test Contact Information

ACT, Inc.
1-319-337-1000
actstudent.org

The College Board
1-866-756-7346
collegeboard.co

 via Kaptest.com

Last updated on September 23, 2010 by John Gray Educational Consulting