A question parents frequently ask me is, “What is the difference between the SAT and the ACT exams?” Although the SAT and ACT are both standardized tests used for college admissions there are some key differences between the two exams.
First, the test structure is different between the two exams. The SAT has three sections (Reading, Writing and Language, Math (with and without Calculator), while the ACT has four sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science) plus an optional Writing section.
Second, the content differs between both exams. The SAT focuses more on vocabulary, while the ACT places more emphasis on grammar and punctuation. The ACT also includes a Science section, which the SAT does not.
Third, the scoring is much different between both exams. The SAT has a maximum score of 1600, while the ACT has a maximum score of 36 (with a separate score for the optional Writing section).
Fourth, The SAT is slightly longer than the ACT, with a total test time of 3 hours compared to the ACT’s total test time of 2 hours and 55 minutes (plus 40 minutes for the optional Writing section).
Fifth, The SAT has a section where calculators are not allowed, while the ACT allows the use of calculators for all sections.
As a final thought, It’s important to note that colleges accept both the SAT and ACT. Students should check with the colleges they are interested in to determine which test(s) they require or recommend.