When it comes to studying in the USA, both SAT & ACT are equally recognized and accepted by universities and institutions. These tests are an important admission requirement for seeking admission in the US. SAT & ACT are used to measure the college readiness of the test taker which is primarily done through multiple choice questions.
While these tests are used for the same purpose, they are different in their own way. Test takers usually are perplexed about which test to take, this is why the need of identifying the differences between these tests comes into the picture. To help the test takers decide which test is right for them, this article will overview the fundamental components of these tests and point out the key differences between the SAT & ACT. This article will help you with your test preparation for SAT & ACT.
SAT Explained
Scholastic Assessment Test or SAT is now completely digitalised and hence known as Digital SAT. This standardized test is administered by the College Board.
ACT Explained
American College Testing or ACT is a standardized test that is administered by ACT, a non-profit organization of the same name.
Considering that you know the basics of these tests, let us proceed to understand the differences between SAT & ACT.
SAT vs. ACT: What's The Difference
- SAT vs. ACT: Test Format and Sections
The SAT consist of two sections: The reading and writing section and the math section. Many SAT Coaching provide comprehensive test preparation for these test sections.
The ACT consist of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. One more section of writing or essay is optional.
- SAT vs. ACT: Science Section
SAT doesn’t have a dedicated science section.
ACT has a dedicated science section testing your critical thinking skills.
- SAT vs. ACT: Test Duration
The test duration for SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes.
The test duration for ACT is 2 hours and 55 minutes without an essay and 3 hours and 40 minutes with an essay.
- SAT vs. ACT: Number of Questions
The total number of questions asked in SAT is 98. The Reading and Writing section consists of 54 questions, whereas the Math section consists of 44 questions.
The total number of questions asked in ACT is 215, this includes 1 optional essay. The English section has 75 questions, the math section has 60 questions and the science and reading sections have 40 questions each.
- SAT vs. ACT: Test Scoring
The total score range for SAT is between 400-1600.
The total score range for ACT is between 1-36.
- SAT vs. ACT: Test Fees
Test Fees for SAT are $109.
Test Fees for the ACT are $196.50 with the writing test and $ 171.50 without the writing test.
These are the differences between both tests. Depending on the requirement of the institution and your test preparation you can take any of these tests.
To know more about how to prepare for SAT and ACT, you can reach out to any of the renowned study abroad consultants in India. These consultants will guide you on how to ace your test scores and prepare comprehensively.
