10 Key Differences Between SAT and ACT Tests

High school students are often perplexed with the question: Which is better, SAT or ACT? Both the SAT and ACT are standardized tests that universities and colleges use to assess prospective students, but there exist some key differences between the two.

The SAT test format vastly differs from the ACT test format. The SAT is divided into two sections: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math. In contrast, the ACT is comprised of four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science.

The question of whether the SAT or ACT is easier varies, depending on the student's personal strengths and deficits. Students with robust reading and writing expertise might find the SAT more suitable. Alternatively, SAT vs ACT for humanities students science-oriented students might have an edge with the ACT.

The SAT and ACT also diverge in terms of scoring scales. The SAT scoring scale stretches from 400 to 1600, while the ACT score ranges from 1 to 36.

SAT and ACT test subjects also noticeably diverge. The SAT math focuses greatly on reasoning, problem-solving and data analysis abilities, while the ACT math section covers topics from pre-algebra to trigonometry.

The decision to take the SAT or ACT is ultimately dependent on a student's individual strengths and choice. Most schools will accept scores from either the SAT or ACT, so pick the exam that best represents your abilities. In the end, what matters most is not which test students take, but how well they do on it.