Some Basic Differences:

SAT Areas Tested:

  • Critical Reading
  • Math
  • Writing

Scoring: Each section is scored on a 200-800 scale with a total possible score of 2400.

Testing Length: 3 hours, 45 minutes

ACT Areas Tested:

  • English
  • Math
  • Reading
  • Science
  • Writing (optional)

Scoring: The English, Math, Reading, and Science are scored on a 1-36 scale and Writing on a 0-12 scale.

Testing Length: 3 hours, 25 minutes (including the 30-minute optional Writing section)

SAT vs ACT (which to take?)

Many students have questions about which standardized test they should take as part of the college admissions process, the SAT or the ACT. Both tests are accepted equally by colleges and universities and are administered frequently throughout the fall and spring.