Understanding the Structural and Scoring Differences Between the ACT and SAT

Comparing the ACT and SAT – Structure, Content, and Subject Focus

Introduction

When it comes to applying to college in the United States, the ACT and SAT are two standardized tests that play a central role in admissions decisions and scholarship qualifications. Though many colleges accept scores from either test without preference, they are not identical in structure, content, or testing strategy. Understanding how these two exams differ can help students decide which is the better fit for their learning style and academic strengths.

The ACT and SAT both evaluate skills in reading, writing, and math. However, the ACT includes a science reasoning section, and until recently, both offered optional essay components. With recent changes to the SAT—including the removal of its essay and subject tests—it’s now even more critical to understand how each test functions. Whether you’re a fast test-taker who excels under time pressure or a careful thinker who prefers a bit more time to work through problems, choosing the right test can significantly affect your final score and college options.

Structural Overview of the ACT and SAT

Both the ACT and SAT are multiple-choice, standardized tests that students usually take in their junior or senior year of high school. Despite their similar purposes, they differ in their section breakdown, number of questions, time allocations, and scoring methods.

The ACT is composed of four main sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. It also offers an optional Writing (essay) section. The SAT, on the other hand, consists of two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (which includes a Reading Test and a Writing & Language Test), and Math (split into calculator and no-calculator sections). The SAT once included an optional Essay section, but that has been discontinued for most test-takers since 2021.

Each section of these tests assesses a distinct set of academic skills, and the way those skills are tested varies between the two exams. Time management is a major concern on both tests, but the ACT generally allows less time per question, making it more fast-paced.

English Section (ACT) vs. Writing and Language (SAT)

The ACT English section and the SAT Writing and Language section both evaluate grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills. They ask students to revise and edit passages to improve clarity, correctness, and style.

The ACT English section consists of 75 questions to be answered in 45 minutes. This means test-takers must work at a brisk pace of 36 seconds per question. The section features five passages, each followed by multiple questions. The questions typically involve identifying grammatical errors, improving sentence clarity, and understanding writing style and organization. Because of the rapid pace, students must be able to quickly recognize common errors and confidently choose the best correction.

In contrast, the SAT Writing and Language section contains 44 questions spread across four passages and must be completed in 35 minutes. This allows for a slightly more generous 48 seconds per question. The passages in the SAT may include graphics like charts or tables, and students may be asked to correct sentences in a way that aligns with the data presented. Additionally, the SAT may test more complex sentence structures and ask students to make more nuanced editorial decisions.

While the fundamental skills being tested are the same—grammar, syntax, and style—the ACT tends to focus on volume and speed, while the SAT favors careful analysis and editing. Students who excel at quickly identifying and correcting grammatical mistakes may perform better on the ACT, while those who prefer to deliberate over fewer, more detailed questions may find the SAT more suitable.

Reading Sections: ACT Reading vs. SAT Reading

Reading comprehension is a critical part of both the ACT and SAT, and both tests present passages that must be read and analyzed for content, structure, tone, and meaning. However, differences in question style, passage length, and time pressure can influence which test better suits a student.

The ACT Reading section includes 40 questions and must be completed in 35 minutes, giving about 53 seconds per question. There are four passages, each accompanied by ten questions. One passage is typically split into two shorter texts for comparative analysis. The reading passages are drawn from fiction, social science, humanities, and natural sciences, and questions tend to focus on straightforward comprehension, cause-and-effect relationships, author purpose, and vocabulary in context.

The SAT Reading section consists of 52 questions to be answered in 65 minutes, which allows for roughly 75 seconds per question. This section includes five passages, including one passage drawn from U.S. or world literature, one historical or foundational document, one social science piece, and two science-related passages. SAT reading questions often require deeper analytical thinking, especially when interpreting the author’s tone, understanding historical context, or analyzing evidence presented in the text.

Additionally, SAT passages can include older or more complex writing, particularly in historical documents or classical literature excerpts. These passages may feature formal language or dense sentence structure that can be challenging for some test-takers.

In summary, the ACT Reading section rewards quick processing and solid comprehension skills, while the SAT’s longer reading section offers more time but expects a higher level of text analysis. If you are a fast reader who works well under pressure, the ACT might be a better choice. If you prefer more time to think and are comfortable with complex texts, the SAT may suit you better.

Math Sections: ACT Math vs. SAT Math

Math is an area where the differences between the ACT and SAT become more apparent, not just in structure and timing but also in the types of questions and calculator policies.

The ACT Math section includes 60 questions to be answered in 60 minutes, with one minute allotted per question. It allows calculator use for all questions and consists entirely of multiple-choice items. The content ranges from pre-algebra and algebra to geometry, trigonometry, and a small number of pre-calculus concepts. Students are expected to move quickly through the section and apply math formulas efficiently. There is also a tendency for the ACT to focus more on geometry and trigonometry than the SAT.

The SAT Math section is divided into two parts: one that allows calculator use and one that does not. The non-calculator portion consists of 20 questions (25 minutes), while the calculator-allowed section has 38 questions (55 minutes), making a total of 58 questions in 80 minutes. This allows more time per question—about 83 seconds. The SAT math questions include both multiple-choice and grid-in formats, where students must supply their answers. Content-wise, the SAT emphasizes algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and some advanced math topics. There is less emphasis on geometry and trigonometry compared to the ACT.

Calculator policy is another important distinction. Because the ACT permits calculators throughout, students who rely on calculators may find it more comfortable. On the SAT, being proficient in mental math and manual calculation is key, especially in the no-calculator section.

Another subtle difference is in question style. SAT math questions often require multi-step reasoning and can be more word-heavy, involving context-based problem solving. ACT questions tend to be more direct and computational.

Students who are confident in their quick math skills and prefer consistent calculator use may lean toward the ACT, while those who are stronger in algebra and reasoning-based math and prefer a slower pace may do better on the SAT.

Science Section: A Unique Feature of the ACT

The science section is one of the most distinctive features of the ACT, as the SAT does not include a separate science component. The ACT Science section is 35 minutes long and contains 40 questions based on seven passages. Each passage presents scientific data in the form of graphs, tables, or research summaries. Students are asked to interpret data, identify trends, analyze experiments, and draw conclusions.

Importantly, the ACT Science section does not test in-depth science knowledge. Instead, it evaluates scientific reasoning and critical thinking. Familiarity with the scientific method, understanding experimental design, and the ability to read scientific charts are more important than memorizing biology or physics facts.

Because the SAT lacks a standalone science section, it integrates science-related content into its Reading and Writing sections. For example, a reading passage might present a study or an article on a scientific topic, and students are expected to analyze the data and draw conclusions.

Students who are comfortable with interpreting graphs, tables, and experimental summaries may find the ACT Science section a strong point. Those who are less inclined toward scientific reasoning or who prefer not to have an additional content area to prepare for might feel more comfortable with the SAT.

Essay Section: ACT Writing (Optional) vs. SAT Essay (Discontinued)

Until recently, both tests included optional essay sections, but now only the ACT retains this component. The ACT Writing test is a 40-minute essay based on a single prompt about a social issue. Students are presented with three perspectives on the issue and are asked to analyze them, develop their viewpoint, and support it with logical reasoning and examples.

The essay is scored separately and does not impact the composite ACT score. Some colleges may require or recommend the ACT Writing score, so it’s important to research individual school requirements before deciding whether to skip it.

The SAT once included an optional essay, but it was phased out in 2021 for all but a few special exceptions (such as school-day administrations in certain states). As a result, most students do not need to prepare for an SAT essay at all.

Students who are confident writers and want to showcase their analytical and argumentative skills may benefit from completing the ACT Writing section, particularly if applying to a school that values that component.

This first part has outlined the structural and content-related differences between the ACT and SAT. From the ACT’s inclusion of a science section and optional essay to the SAT’s emphasis on deep reading and algebra-focused math, the choice between the two depends largely on how students prefer to work through academic material. Some students thrive under the fast-paced, direct questioning style of the ACT, while others do better with the SAT’s slower pace and multi-step reasoning problems.

Timing, Scoring Systems, and How Colleges Use ACT and SAT Scores

Timing and Pacing: ACT vs. SAT

Timing is one of the most critical differences between the ACT and the SAT. It affects not just how long the overall test takes but also how much time is available for each question. Students who struggle with time pressure may find one test more comfortable than the other.

The ACT is known for its strict time limits and fast pacing. Each section is dense with questions and requires quick decision-making and efficient test-taking strategies. Here is a breakdown of the ACT’s timing per section:

• English: 75 questions in 45 minutes (36 seconds per question) 
• Math: 60 questions in 60 minutes (60 seconds per question) 
• Reading: 40 questions in 35 minutes (53 seconds per question) 
• Science: 40 questions in 35 minutes (53 seconds per question) 
• Optional Essay (Writing): 1 essay in 40 minutes 

The total testing time for the ACT without the essay is approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. If you take the optional essay, the full test takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes.

The SAT, by contrast, offers a bit more time per question, particularly in the Math and Reading sections. Here’s the SAT breakdown:

• Reading: 52 questions in 65 minutes (75 seconds per question) 
• Writing and Language: 44 questions in 35 minutes (48 seconds per question) 
• Math – No Calculator: 20 questions in 25 minutes (75 seconds per question) 
• Math – Calculator: 38 questions in 55 minutes (87 seconds per question) 

The SAT’s total testing time is around 3 hours. The essay section has been discontinued, so students do not need to budget additional time for writing unless taking a school-specific test that still includes it.

The key takeaway is that the SAT tends to favor students who prefer more time to consider each question, while the ACT may appeal to those who are comfortable working at a faster pace. Practice exams can help identify which timing structure works better for each student.

Scoring Systems and Scales

The ACT and SAT use completely different scoring scales, which can make comparisons between the two challenging. However, colleges are familiar with both systems and often use concordance tables to compare scores from each exam.

ACT Scoring:

• Each of the four multiple-choice sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science) is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. 
• The scores from these four sections are averaged to produce a composite score, also on a scale of 1 to 36. 
• The optional Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 2 to 12 and is not included in the composite score. 

For example, a student who scores 30 on English, 28 on Math, 31 on Reading, and 29 on Science would have a composite ACT score of 29.5, which is rounded to 30.

SAT Scoring:

• The SAT combines scores from two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) and Math. 
• Each of these two sections is scored from 200 to 800. 
• The two section scores are then added to produce a total score ranging from 400 to 1600. 

For example, a student who scores 680 in ERW and 720 in Math would have a total SAT score of 1400.

Average Scores:

• The national average composite score for the ACT is approximately 20.8. 
• The national average total score for the SAT is around 1051. 

Because the scoring systems are so different, direct comparisons can be misleading without concordance tools. The College Board and ACT have worked together to provide official concordance charts that allow students and colleges to compare scores fairly across the two exams.

The Role of Guessing on Each Test

A key feature shared by both tests is that guessing is not penalized. This means that students should never leave a question blank, as there is no deduction for incorrect answers—only points awarded for correct ones.

This hasn’t always been the case. Before 2016, the SAT deducted a fraction of a point for each wrong answer, discouraging random guessing. However, this policy has been eliminated. Now, both the ACT and SAT use “rights-only” scoring, where you gain points for correct answers and receive no penalty for incorrect ones.

Strategic guessing can improve a student’s overall performance. For example:

• If you can eliminate one or two incorrect answer choices, your odds of guessing correctly increase significantly. 
• On time-sensitive sections like ACT Reading and Science, it’s a smart move to bubble in random answers for any remaining questions when time is nearly up. 

This policy encourages students to attempt every question, even if they are unsure of the answer. Developing a test-taking strategy that includes intelligent guessing can help maximize scores on both exams.

How Colleges Use ACT and SAT Scores

Most colleges in the United States accept both ACT and SAT scores equally. There is no inherent preference for one over the other, especially among competitive institutions. Schools use standardized test scores in several ways during the admissions process:

1. Admissions Decisions: Scores are considered alongside GPA, coursework, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and essays. A strong score can enhance an application, especially if it supports other academic indicators. 
2. Merit-Based Scholarships: Many colleges award scholarships based on standardized test scores. Higher scores can lead to larger awards or eligibility for honors programs. Some state-funded scholarships also have minimum ACT or SAT requirements. 
3. Course Placement: Some schools use test scores to determine placement in first-year courses, such as English or math. A high score might allow a student to skip introductory courses or satisfy certain core requirements. 
4. Superscoring: Many colleges use a method called “superscoring,” in which they take the highest section scores across multiple test dates to create a new composite or total score. This is common with the SAT and increasingly accepted for the ACT as well. 

For example, if a student takes the SAT twice and scores 650 in Reading and Writing the first time and 720 the second time, the higher score of 720 may be used regardless of the test date. The same applies to Math.

Not all colleges superscore, so it’s important to check individual school policies. If a school does, it may be beneficial to retake the test and focus on improving weaker sections.

1. Test-Optional Policies: In recent years, many colleges have adopted test-optional admissions policies, meaning applicants are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores. However, students with strong scores are often encouraged to submit them, as they can strengthen an application and improve chances for scholarships. 

Test-optional does not mean test-blind. Most test-optional schools will still consider submitted scores. Some schools remain test-required, especially for out-of-state students, athletic recruits, or specific scholarship programs.

Cost and Registration Fees

The cost of taking the ACT or SAT is another factor to consider. While both exams are similarly priced, small differences can affect a student’s decision, particularly if they plan to take the test multiple times or submit scores to many schools.

ACT Costs:

• Base test (no essay): $63 
• Test with optional essay: $88 
• Score reports to up to 4 schools: free if designated by the Thursday after the test. 
• Additional score reports after the free period: $16 per report 
• Test information release (includes questions and answers): $30 during registration, $40 afterward 

SAT Costs:

• Base test (no essay): $60 
• Essay option: discontinued 
• Score reports to up to 4 schools: free if sent within 9 days of the test. 
• Additional score reports: $12 per school. 
• Rush reporting: $31 per order 

Students who cannot afford these fees may qualify for fee waivers from the ACT or College Board, which allow for free registration, free score reports, and even fee waivers for college applications. It’s worth exploring these options with a school counselor.

Score Reporting and College Planning

Both tests allow students to send scores to colleges for free, but the window for choosing those schools is limited. For the ACT, students must select schools by the Thursday after the test. For the SAT, the window extends to nine days after test day.

Once the free reporting period ends, additional reports cost money. Planning and knowing where you want to send your scores can save you money and time. Also, if a student plans to apply to many schools, it might be worth taking the test early enough to retest if needed and optimize the superscore or final submission.

Understanding each college’s specific test policies—including whether they superscore, require the ACT essay, or are test-optional—is a critical step in planning test strategy. Students can make a list of schools and create a table comparing score requirements, deadlines, and policies to stay organized.

This guide has focused on the logistical and evaluative differences between the ACT and SAT. From timing and scoring mechanics to how colleges interpret and use test results, these factors all contribute to the decision about which test to take. Neither test is inherently easier or harder; instead, the better option depends on individual strengths, preferences, and the policies of target colleges.

Preparing for the ACT and SAT – Study Strategies, Practice Tools, and Choosing the Right Test

Introduction

Once students understand the structural and scoring differences between the ACT and SAT, the next step is effective preparation. Whether a student plans to take one of the exams or both, success depends on creating a targeted study plan that suits their learning style and academic needs. The ACT and SAT require mastery of core high school subjects, but each test emphasizes different skills and formats. Knowing how to prepare for these differences can have a major impact on performance.

In this part, we’ll explore the best preparation strategies for each test, tools to help improve your score, and how to use practice tests to determine which exam aligns better with your strengths. We’ll also discuss specific areas of focus for each section—English, Math, Reading, Science (for the ACT), and the Essay (for those choosing the ACT Writing section).

Initial Steps for Preparation

Before choosing which test to commit to, students should start with a diagnostic approach. Taking a full-length, timed practice ACT and SAT is one of the most reliable ways to determine which test feels more comfortable. Practice exams simulate the real testing experience and can help identify strengths and weaknesses in content knowledge, pacing, and question types.

After taking both practice tests, students should analyze the following:

• Overall scores and section scores 
• Questions missed and time spent on each section. 
• Comfort with specific question formats (e.g., grid-in math on the SAT or science reasoning on the ACT) 
• Mental fatigue or confidence during different sections 

By reviewing these areas, students can make a more informed decision about which test to prepare for. In some cases, the difference in performance may be small enough that personal preference or test date availability becomes the deciding factor. In others, one test may show a significant score advantage, making the choice clear.

General Preparation Strategies for Both Tests

While the ACT and SAT have unique structures, their shared goal—assessing academic readiness—means many preparation techniques apply to both exams. The following strategies can improve performance regardless of which test you choose:

• Establish a Study Schedule: Start preparing 2–3 months before the test. Set aside consistent, focused study time each week. Cramming the week before the test is far less effective than steady, long-term practice. 
• Use Official Practice Tests: The ACT and College Board (SAT) both provide free, official practice exams. These are designed to mimic the actual tests as closely as possible. 
• Review Mistakes Carefully: Don’t just mark wrong answers. Analyze why you missed them. Did you misread the question, lack content knowledge, or run out of time? Understanding the reason for each error is key to improvement. 
• Focus on Weak Areas: Spend more time on sections that consistently reduce your score. If you struggle with time management, practice under strict time conditions. If a particular math topic causes errors, review that content in depth. 
• Take Timed Practice Tests: Practicing under timed conditions builds endurance and accuracy under pressure. Try to replicate actual testing environments (quiet space, no interruptions, strict timing). 
• Use Flashcards and Formulas: For grammar rules, math formulas, or vocabulary, flashcards can be a quick way to build memory and retention. 
• Review Strategy Tips: Learn pacing techniques, guessing strategies, and how to eliminate wrong answer choices efficiently. 

Preparing for ACT Sections

ACT English:

• Focus on grammar rules, punctuation (especially commas and apostrophes), sentence structure, and rhetorical strategy. 
• Practice identifying the main idea of a passage and how sentence changes affect tone or clarity. 
• Time is a major challenge, so work on speed. Don’t dwell too long on one question; if you’re unsure, make your best guess and move on. 

ACT Math:

• Review topics through Algebra II, with some exposure to geometry, basic trigonometry, and pre-calculus. 
• Memorize commonly used formulas, as none are provided on the ACT. 
• Use a calculator strategically; sometimes, solving by hand is faster. 
• Practice solving problems quickly. Since all questions are multiple choice, learn to estimate when appropriate and eliminate wrong answers. 

ACT Reading:

• Practice skimming passages to identify structure and main ideas. 
• Understand the author’s tone and purpose—many questions ask what the author is trying to convey. 
• Learn to locate supporting evidence quickly without rereading entire passages. 
• Train yourself to work quickly through each set of 10 questions per passage, managing time so you don’t run out before the last section. 

ACT Science:

• Focus on interpreting graphs, reading data tables, and comparing scientific viewpoints. 
• Practice summarizing data from experimental setups. 
• Learn to identify variables and understand what the data is showing, even if you’re unfamiliar with the specific scientific topic. 
• Timing is critical. Don’t get bogged down in reading long passages—most answers come directly from the visual data. 

ACT Essay (Optional):

• Practice analyzing different perspectives and building a clear, organized argument. 
• Create essay outlines before writing full essays to develop a logical structure. 
• Focus on strong introductions, clear thesis statements, and paragraph transitions. 
• Review sample essays and scoring rubrics to understand what scorers are looking for in high-scoring responses. 

Preparing for SAT Sections

SAT Reading:

• Practice active reading with a focus on identifying the author’s purpose, tone, and argument. 
• Familiarize yourself with older, more complex texts, especially historical and classic literature. 
• Focus on evidence-based questions that ask you to select the sentence that best supports your answer. 
• Use paired question strategies—some questions are connected and can guide your answer to both. 

SAT Writing and Language:

• Review grammar concepts such as subject-verb agreement, pronoun usage, and modifier placement. 
• Practice editing paragraphs for clarity and conciseness. 
• Learn how to interpret graphs that are included in some writing passages. 
• Work on recognizing when no change is the correct answer—this is a common trap for over-editing. 

SAT Math – No Calculator:

• Focus on mental math and solving equations by hand. 
• Practice simplifying expressions and solving equations quickly. 
• Memorize key algebra and geometry formulas since you won’t be able to rely on a calculator for assistance. 

SAT Math – Calculator:

• Use a calculator efficiently—don’t rely on it for basic math, you can solve it faster mentally. 
• Focus on multi-step problems, particularly data interpretation and word problems. 
• Learn to identify unnecessary information in questions and break down complex problems into smaller parts. 

Identifying the Better Test for You

Once you’ve practiced both exams, compare your performance:

• Where did you feel more confident? 
• Which test sections caused the most difficulty? 
• How did your scores compare on conversion charts (available from College Board and ACT)? 

Here are general tendencies that may help you decide:

• You might prefer the ACT if: 
  • You’re a fast test-taker and don’t struggle with time pressure. 
  • You feel comfortable using a calculator for all math problems. 
  • You prefer multiple-choice questions only (including in math). 
  • You want to showcase your reasoning in science. 
• You might prefer the SAT if: 
  • You prefer more time to read and solve problems. 
  • You’re stronger in algebra and data analysis than in geometry or trigonometry. 
  • You enjoy analyzing literary and historical texts. 
  • You’re comfortable answering grid-in questions in math. 

It’s important to recognize that one test is not universally easier or better. The key is which test fits your academic strengths, thinking style, and pace.

Using Study Resources Effectively

Students today have a wide array of study tools available:

• Official Test Prep Materials: Both the SAT and ACT websites offer free practice tests, answer explanations, and test guides. 
• Online Practice Platforms: Several websites offer practice questions, video tutorials, and interactive test simulations. 
• Study Books: Reputable publishers provide ACT and SAT prep books with practice exams and review sections. 
• Private Tutors or Prep Classes: Some students benefit from one-on-one instruction or classroom-based programs that offer guided test prep. 
• School Counselors and Teachers: These professionals often have insights and resources to help students plan their preparation. 

Regardless of the resource you choose, the key is consistency and feedback. Practice regularly and adjust your approach based on performance.

Effective preparation for the ACT or SAT is about more than just studying content. It involves understanding the structure of the test, managing your time, and using the right strategies to answer questions accurately and efficiently. Practice exams are essential in deciding which test suits you better and in building familiarity with the pacing and style of the test.

Additional Factors to Consider – Accommodations, Test Availability, International Students, and Long-Term Planning

Introduction

Choosing between the ACT and SAT is not always just about format, timing, or scoring preferences. A variety of external and situational factors can also influence your decision. These include the accessibility of test centers, available test dates, eligibility for accommodations, whether you’re an international student, and even the recent shift toward test-optional college admissions policies.

As college admissions become increasingly holistic, the importance of a single test score may be decreasing, but it has not disappeared. High scores can still give applicants a competitive edge, especially for scholarships and competitive programs. In this final part, we will explore how these broader factors fit into your test-planning strategy and what role standardized testing plays in the bigger picture of applying to college.

Test Availability and Scheduling

Test availability may seem like a minor consideration, but it can significantly affect your ability to prepare for and take your chosen exam, especially if you have a tight college application timeline or limited access to testing centers.

ACT Test Dates and Registration:

• The ACT is typically offered seven times per year in the U.S. (February, April, June, July, September, October, and December). 
• Not all test centers offer the ACT on every date, and the July test is not available in some states. 
• Registration usually closes about a month before the test date, with late registration available for an extra fee. 
• Students can take the ACT multiple times, and many colleges will consider their highest composite score or superscore across attempts. 

SAT Test Dates and Registration:

• The SAT is also offered seven times per year in the U.S. (usually March, May, June, August, October, November, and December). 
• Like the ACT, not every test date is available at all locations. 
• The College Board recommends registering well in advance, as some testing sites fill up quickly, especially in densely populated or high-demand areas. 

For students with tight deadlines or those who want to take both exams, it’s essential to map out testing dates early in your high school career. Test planning is especially important if you’re also managing AP exams, IB coursework, or major extracurricular commitments.

Testing Accommodations for Students with Disabilities

Both the SAT and ACT offer testing accommodations for students with documented disabilities. These may include extended time, extra breaks, use of assistive technology, or accommodations for reading or writing challenges.

ACT Accommodations:

• Students must apply through their school’s official ACT accommodations coordinator. 
• Common accommodations include 50% or 100% extended time, testing over multiple days, or the use of a reader or scribe. 
• Approval usually takes several weeks, so it’s best to apply well before registration deadlines. 

SAT Accommodations:

• The College Board handles SAT accommodations through its Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) office. 
• Students usually apply through their school, and approved accommodations may apply to other College Board tests like AP Exams. 
• Extended time, separate rooms, or the use of a computer for essays are some commonly approved modifications. 

While both organizations offer similar supports, some students find the ACT accommodations process slightly more flexible, while others appreciate the centralized system of the College Board. Students with learning differences should evaluate which test format and accommodations better suit their needs. For example:

• If a student struggles with long reading passages and benefits from extended time, the SAT might be better due to its generally slower pacing. 
• If a student has ADHD and does better with shorter, faster-paced sections, the ACT’s structured breakdown might be a more manageable format. 

International Students: ACT vs. SAT Abroad

For international students planning to apply to colleges in the United States, the choice between the ACT and SAT can be influenced by test availability, familiarity with the exam, and academic background.

Test Center Locations:

• Both the SAT and ACT are offered internationally, but the SAT generally has more widespread availability and test centers worldwide. 
• In some regions, the ACT may not be offered as frequently or may have fewer testing locations. 

Language Considerations:

• The SAT’s reading passages often include older and more complex language, especially in historical texts, which may be challenging for non-native English speakers. 
• The ACT’s passages are often more contemporary and direct, which may feel more accessible to international students. 

Math Focus:

• Many international students, especially from countries with rigorous math education systems, excel in SAT Math because it is algebra-heavy and includes fewer geometry or trigonometry questions. 
• The ACT includes more geometry and pre-calculus, which may benefit students with broader math training. 

College Preferences:

• Most U.S. colleges accept both the SAT and ACT equally, but some international universities (especially outside the U.S.) recognize SAT scores more readily. It’s wise to check the standardized test preferences of any international or dual-degree programs to which you may be applying. 

International students should also be mindful of time zones, test center travel logistics, and visa or passport requirements. Register early, as international seats often fill quickly.

The Rise of Test-Optional Admissions

In recent years, a growing number of colleges and universities have adopted test-optional policies, meaning students are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their application. While this shift gained momentum due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools have chosen to continue test-optional practices indefinitely.

However, test-optional does not mean test-blind:

• Test-optional schools will still consider your ACT or SAT scores if you choose to submit them. 
• A strong score can help compensate for a lower GPA, weaker extracurriculars, or gaps in your academic record. 
• Many merit-based scholarships still require test scores for consideration, even at test-optional institutions. 

For students applying to competitive or selective colleges, submitting a high standardized test score can strengthen their application, even when it is not required. Test-optional policies are designed to level the playing field, but they don’t necessarily reduce the value of a strong test result.

Some colleges are also test-flexible, meaning they accept other types of standardized assessments in place of the SAT or ACT, such as AP test scores, IB scores, or the CLT (Classic Learning Test). It’s important to read the admissions policy of each school carefully.

Long-Term Considerations: Beyond Admissions

While most students focus on the role of ACT or SAT scores in gaining college admission, these scores can also have long-term impacts that extend beyond getting into a specific university.

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

• Many public and private scholarship programs set minimum ACT or SAT score thresholds for eligibility. 
• A difference of just 1 or 2 points on the ACT or 50–100 points on the SAT can translate into thousands of dollars in financial aid. 

College Course Placement:

• Some colleges use ACT or SAT scores to place students into introductory or advanced courses in math, English, or science. 
• A high score might allow students to bypass remedial classes or qualify for honors programs. 

Resume Boost for Internships:

• For underclassmen applying to competitive internships, particularly in finance, engineering, or consulting, a high ACT or SAT score can stand out on a resume. 

Graduate School Applications:

• While most graduate programs do not require SAT or ACT scores, some combined programs (such as BS/MD or BA/JD programs) may still consider undergraduate standardized test scores during the selection process. 

Career Placement and Employer Considerations:

• In rare cases, some employers in consulting or high-level finance may ask for SAT or ACT scores as part of their applicant screening process. Though this is becoming less common, it’s still something to be aware of. 

Ultimately, students should view the ACT or SAT not just as an admissions hurdle, but as a possible opportunity to improve their future academic and financial outcomes.

Summary of Factors to Consider

Here is a quick summary of additional considerations to keep in mind:

Factor	ACT	SAT
Test Dates	7 U.S. dates, fewer international offerings	7 U.S. dates, broader international availability
Time Per Question	Faster-paced overall	Slower pacing per question
Calculator Policy	Calculator allowed for all math questions	One math section, no calculator allowed
Reading Style	More straightforward passages	Includes older, more complex texts
Science Section	Yes – dedicated science reasoning section	No – integrated into reading/writing sections
Accommodations Process	School-coordinated, ACT review	Centralized SSD process (College Board)
International Accessibility	Less consistent abroad	More test centers globally
Test-Optional Compatibility	A strong score is still useful for scholarships/admissions	Same – optional but still beneficial

The decision to take the ACT or SAT isn’t just about content preference—it’s also influenced by your location, accommodation needs, scholarship eligibility, and long-term academic goals. As more schools become test-optional, students have more flexibility, but standardized test scores can still serve as valuable academic credentials.

Whether you choose the ACT, the SAT, or both, early planning and strategic preparation are the keys to success. By understanding how each test aligns with your strengths and personal situation, you can confidently move forward in your college journey, armed with the tools to make the most of your abilities and opportunities.

Final Thoughts 

Selecting between the ACT and SAT is a significant decision in the college admissions process, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Both tests serve the same purpose: they help colleges evaluate your academic readiness for higher education. However, because they assess your skills differently—through varying formats, pacing, question styles, and subject emphases—choosing the right one can be the difference between a good score and a great one.

The most important takeaway is that there is no universally better test. The right choice depends on your strengths, learning style, test-taking habits, academic goals, and personal circumstances.

If you’re a student who:

• Works well under time pressure 
• Prefers straightforward questions 
• Feels confident with science data and reasoning 
• Relies on a calculator for math
  Then the ACT may align more closely with your abilities. 

If you’re a student who:

• Prefers more time per question 
• Enjoys reading and analyzing complex texts 
• Excels in algebra and step-by-step math reasoning 
• Feels comfortable with mixed question formats (like grid-ins)
  Then the SAT might be your better choice. 

Beyond the format, you also have to consider test availability, accommodations, international access, and your college list. In an era where more institutions are test-optional, standardized test scores still carry weight for scholarships, honors programs, and placement, even if they’re not required for admission.

Most importantly, remember that these exams do not define your potential. They are just one part of a broader application that includes your grades, activities, recommendations, and personal story. Still, a strong test score can enhance your application and open doors to financial aid and selective opportunities.

Once you’ve chosen your path, commit to thoughtful, consistent preparation. Use official practice materials, take full-length timed tests, and focus on improving your weakest areas. The more familiar you become with the test, the more confident and successful you’ll be on test day.

Finally, keep things in perspective: your college journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Whether you take the ACT, SAT, or both, what matters most is how you use the results to your advantage—and how you grow from the process along the way.