SAT vs ACT: Which Test Is Right for You?

April 10, 2025 Kathleen Jasper

In this blog post, we'll break down the key differences between the SAT and ACT to help you decide which one is the best fit for your skills, goals, and test-taking style. Both tests are widely accepted by colleges and universities, but they differ in structure, scoring, and strategy. Let's dive in and explore what makes each test unique.

Should You Take the SAT or ACT?

One of the most frequently asked questions by students is, "Which test should I take?" While the skills assessed are quite similar, the way those skills are tested is different. Some students thrive with the ACT's straightforward format, while others prefer the SAT's adaptive digital experience.

The best approach? Try both! Taking practice tests for each or sitting for both exams can give you the insight you need to determine where you perform best and feel most confident.

Digital Delivery: Adaptive vs. Linear Testing

SAT – Adaptive Test

The SAT is now a digital, adaptive test. Here's what that means:

If you answer questions correctly in the first module, the second module becomes more challenging.
Harder questions are worth more points, offering a chance for higher scores.
Fewer questions and shorter testing time than the ACT.
Faster score turnaround thanks to adaptive technology.

Challenges with the SAT:

Guessing correctly early on can push you into a harder module, which might not match your actual skill level.
Practice tests are less predictive because they can't fully simulate the adaptive nature.
Score prediction is tough, leading some students to experience test-day anxiety.

ACT – Linear Test

The ACT remains a non-adaptive, linear test, meaning:

Everyone gets the same questions in the same order.
Easier to predict performance using practice tests.
Better pacing strategy since difficulty doesn't change mid-test.

Challenges with the ACT:

Longer test with more questions required to determine your score.
No adaptive scoring, so high-performing students may feel their potential is capped.
Less personalized, as the test doesn't adjust to your ability level.

Section Comparison: What to Expect on Each Test

Reading and Writing / English

SAT integrates grammar and reading into one "Reading and Writing" section with short paragraphs.
ACT separates English (focused on grammar) and Reading (longer passages with context).

Math

Very similar content across both: algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and advanced math.
SAT is divided into two modules.
ACT has a single, linear math section.

Science

Only the ACT includes a science section, which is now optional.
It's more about interpreting data, graphs, and scientific narratives than actual science knowledge.
Great for students applying to STEM-focused programs.

How to Decide: Tips for Choosing Your Test

Take Practice Tests

Download official SAT and ACT tests (PDFs available on sat.org and act.org) and try them out under timed conditions.

Track Your Performance

Compare your scores, pacing, and how you feel during each test. Which test feels more intuitive? Which one stresses you out less?

Choose Your Strengths

Prefer shorter reading passages? The SAT might be for you. Like more predictability? ACT could be the better choice.

Stay in the Test Daily

Devote 15–20 minutes a day to reviewing test questions and using test-taking strategies. Consistent practice helps improve speed, accuracy, and confidence.

Both the SAT and ACT are solid pathways to college admissions, and neither is "better" than the other—it's all about what works best for you. Whether you favor the adaptive challenge of the SAT or the consistent pace of the ACT, the key is practice and familiarity. Start with sample tests, track your comfort level and scores, and pick the test that aligns best with your strengths.

Remember: you're not locked into one test. Many students take both and decide afterward which to focus on for future attempts. Stay flexible, stay informed, and keep practicing.