The ACT and SAT are the two most widely recognized standardized tests used in the college admissions process in the United States. The ACT and SAT are both equally accepted and considered at ALL US colleges and universities, including the Ivy Leagues.

While the ACT and SAT may seem similar at first glance, there are key distinctions that set them apart. The ACT is an assessment that tests students on their understanding of their high school curriculum. The SAT, on the other hand, has traditionally been considered more of an aptitude test.

Both tests evaluate your skills in reading and math. However, the ACT goes a step further by offering a separate English section, an optional writing section that can highlight your writing skills to provide a more well-rounded assessment of your academic abilities, and an optional science section making it a go-to choice for those interested in STEM fields.

The ACT’s emphasis on practical language skills, as opposed to memorizing a long list of complex vocabulary, can make it more relevant for many students. The ACT evaluates your ability to understand language in context, which many students find to be a more natural skill. Another significant difference is that the ACT offers support for English learners on every national test date, adding another layer of accessibility.

That’s the question we always get. We know you’re smart enough to succeed on either! Questions on the ACT and SAT have very similar levels of average difficulty – so it really comes down to student preference. Check out our free practice test to get a sense of our test format to help you determine your best test fit.

The ACT test is the shortest college admissions test at 2 hours and 5 minutes for students to earn a Composite score.

Many students choose to focus on one exam because sending both scores usually doesn't give an advantage in the admissions process, and colleges will consider the highest score. Focusing on one exam allows you to dedicate your time and practice to achieving your highest score on one exam. 

A good ACT score depends on your college goals. Some schools expect scores in the 30s while others see the 20s as competitive. Research the average scores at your target schools to get a clear goal. To learn more, visit our Understanding Your Scores page and the official ACT/SAT Concordance Tables to compare ACT and SAT scores.

Yes, but only during the math section of the test.

Offered for three test dates each year, you can access a copy of your test questions, your answers, and the correct answers from the test. This can be a powerful tool in identifying areas for improvement and boosting your score if you plan to retake the ACT. Learn more about ACT My Answer Key (formerly TIR) and how it can enhance your test prep!