SAT vs ACT: Complete Side-by-Side Comparison
Not sure which college entrance exam to take? This page breaks down every difference between the SAT and ACT so you can choose the test that plays to your strengths.
At a Glance
- Score Range
- 400 - 1600
- Duration
- 2 hours 14 minutes
- Sections
- Reading & Writing, Math
- Science Section
- No (data analysis in Math)
- Format
- Digital, adaptive
- Score Range
- 1 - 36
- Duration
- 2 hours 55 minutes (3:30 with writing)
- Sections
- English, Math, Reading, Science
- Science Section
- Yes (40 questions)
- Format
- Paper or digital (varies by state)
Detailed Comparison
| Feature | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Total Score Range | 400 - 1600 | 1 - 36 |
| Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes | 2 hours 55 minutes |
| Sections | Reading & Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Science |
| Number of Questions | 98 | 215 |
| Format | Digital, adaptive | Paper or digital (varies by state) |
| Calculator | Built-in Desmos (all math) | Permitted on all math |
| Reading Passages | Short (25 - 150 words) | Long (750+ words) |
| Science Section | No (data analysis in Math) | Yes (40 questions) |
| Essay / Writing | No | Optional (being phased out) |
| Scoring | Section-based (200 - 800 each) | Composite average of 4 sections |
| Guessing Penalty | No | No |
| Test Dates per Year | 7 | 7 |
| Cost | ~$68 | ~$68 |
| Accepted by | All US colleges | All US colleges |
| Superscoring | Widely accepted | Less commonly accepted |
Which Test Is Right for You?
The best test is whichever one you score higher on. Here are some general patterns to help you decide where to start.
Choose the SAT if you...
- Prefer shorter reading passages (25 - 150 words each)
- Are strong in math relative to reading
- Like the adaptive format, where the test adjusts to your level
- Want a built-in graphing calculator (Desmos) on every math question
Choose the ACT if you...
- Are a fast, confident reader who handles long passages well
- Enjoy science and interpreting data, charts, and experiments
- Prefer a straightforward, linear test with no adaptive routing
- Like answering more questions with less time pressure per question
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the SAT easier than the ACT?
Neither test is objectively easier. The SAT uses shorter passages and an adaptive format, while the ACT covers more questions in less time per question. Most students find one format suits their strengths better than the other.
Do colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?
All accredited US colleges and universities accept both the SAT and ACT equally. Admissions offices do not favor one over the other, so you should take whichever test you perform better on.
Can I take both the SAT and the ACT?
Yes. Many students take both tests to see which one yields a higher score. You can then submit only the score that presents you best. Taking a practice test of each is a low-cost way to decide.
How do I convert SAT scores to ACT scores?
College Board and ACT, Inc. publish concordance tables that map SAT total scores to ACT composite scores. For example, a 1400 SAT corresponds roughly to a 31 ACT. Use the latest official concordance for accurate conversions.
When should I decide which test to take?
Ideally, decide by the spring of your junior year. Take a timed practice test of each, compare your results, and focus your preparation on the test where you score higher or feel more comfortable.
Ready to start practicing?
The best way to decide between the SAT and ACT is to try both. Take a full-length SAT practice test on MockCamp, then compare your score to an ACT diagnostic.