ACT vs. SAT: Understanding the Difference

The ACT and SAT are the two most widely recognized standardized tests used in the college admissions process in the United States. The ACT is an assessment that tests students on their understanding of their high school curriculum and covers coursework in English, reading, math, and science. The SAT, on the other hand, has traditionally been considered more of an aptitude test that includes only English, reading, and math; it does not have a science section.  

What Is the Difference Between the ACT and SAT?

While the ACT and SAT may seem similar at first glance, there are key distinctions that set them apart. Both tests evaluate your skills in reading, writing, and math. However, the ACT goes a step further by offering an optional essay component that can highlight your writing skills to provide a more well-rounded assessment of your academic abilities. Additionally, the ACT also includes a 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. 

Additionally, the ACT's scoring system is designed to give you detailed insights into your strengths and weaknesses. This information can help you choose the right classes during your high school career and can add focus to your studying if you decide to retake the ACT to improve your scores.   

Which Test Is Easier, the ACT or SAT?

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. 

Should You Take the ACT or SAT?

Some reasons a student might consider the ACT over the SAT:

1. Each student who takes the ACT more than once has the chance at an ACT Superscore, which takes the average of the four best subject scores from each ACT test attempt — and counts it as your official score.  
2. Students can choose how they take the ACT – either on paper or online. The SAT is now only offered online. Some students like paper and pencil, others like the computer. With the ACT, you decide which test format is best for you. Learn more about changes to the ACT including ACT enhancements and online testing. 
3. The ACT is the only standardized test to offer a test answer key - ACT My Answer Key (TIR) for certain test dates. This means you can choose to get your answer key back with your test and see the questions you missed and which you got right. This is an excellent study tool especially for those students who know they want to take the test multiple times to superscore. 
4. Students who take the ACT will complete a science section (students will have the choice beginning with online testers in April 2025 of including the science section), which allows them to receive a STEM score. This is a strong benefit for any students looking to pursue STEM majors or STEM careers. The U.S. will need to fill millions of STEM jobs in the upcoming years; show your college of choice that you’re serious about your STEM future!  
5. The ACT has an optional writing section which allows students to showcase their writing skills to colleges and universities. With AI technology changing the digital and writing landscape, it’s important that students can show colleges they have what it takes to write papers, compose essays, and utilize their communication skills in the classroom and beyond.
6. ACT is known for its commitment to equity and diversity. This expands to our test too! We offer accommodations for all types of diverse learners. One example of this is our English learner supports for U.S. students not proficient in English on all national test days.
7. The ACT is predictive! Students meeting three or four ACT College Readiness Benchmarks have a strong likelihood of experiencing success in first-year college courses.
8. You should consider what test center availability is like in your area – you may find there is more availability to take the ACT test! Find a Test Center.

Which Test Is Longer – the ACT or the SAT?

The ACT test has a longer testing time; however, the test is broken up into four smaller sections: English, math, reading, and science*. Many students find it easier to maintain focus and attention with the shorter sections. The SAT has fewer but longer sections. 

*Beginning in April 2025 for online testers and then in September 2025 for all testers, students will have the choice of taking the ACT with or without science. The length of the test will be reduced as well, and it will have a shorter testing time than the SAT. 

Can I Use a Calculator?

Yes! You can use your calculator throughout the test.

Does ACT Provide an Answer Key After 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!