Exams Know-how

SAT vs ACT: What is the Difference & Which to Take?

Q: Whats the difference between the SAT and ACT?

Both tests serve the same purpose as aptitude tests for undergraduate admission at universities abroad. There are differences in the structure of the tests, the scoring and time spent on each question in the test.

Q: Is the ACT or SAT harder?

Difficulty level is subjective to each student; one test cannot be said to be objectively harder than the other.

Q: Is the SAT or ACT better?

One test can only be better than the other depending on which course and field of study the individual chooses. Another deciding factor can be the student’s aptitude in mathematics; the subject controls 50% of the SAT score but only 25% of the ACT score.

Q: Are ACT and SAT Math the same?

The ACT and SAT math tests cover much of the same material, but some areas are only tested on the SAT and not on the ACT, and vice versa. Algebra, Advanced Math, Problem-Solving, Data Analysis, Geometry, and Trigonometry are tested on the SAT Math. On the other hand, the ACT math curriculum covers Pre-Algebra, Elementary Algebra, Plane Geometry, and Trigonometry. So, these are the big topics that are tested on both tests. The smaller topics that are tested may or may not change.

Q: Is SAT easier than ACT for the reading section?

Yes, the reading part of the SAT is easier than the reading part of the ACT. Compared to the ACT, the reading comprehension on the SAT and the questions are shorter. So, when the SAT Digital came out, the reading and writing sections were put together, and because the test was more straightforward, so were the problems.

Kashyap Matani

Apr 22, 2025

6 mins

6.5k views

One of the key milestones on your path to studying abroad as an international student is getting ready for and sitting for exams like the SAT and ACT. These tests are essential for getting into American undergraduate programs, and they also help you get scholarships based on merit. While many institutions still need these exam results, several candidates now demand optional test applications or have done away with this necessity. To assist you in choosing the test that is most appropriate for you, we'll examine the fundamental distinctions between the SAT and ACT examinations in this post. Let’s dive into SAT vs ACT...

Table of Content

1. Understanding the SAT Exam
2. Exploring the ACT Exam
3. SAT vs ACT: Key Differences at a Glance
4. Navigating Registration
5. Deciphering Score Conversion
6. SAT vs ACT: Type of Questions
7. SAT vs ACT: Test Duration
8. SAT vs ACT: Cost
9. Essays Requirement for SAT and ACT
10. Who Accepts the SAT and ACT?
11. How to Pick the Right Test for Yourself?
12. Sat vs Act: Which is Easier

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Understanding the SAT Exam

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) examines your reading, writing, and mathematics knowledge. The test lasts 2 hours and 14 minutes, comprising two main sections: Reading + Writing and Mathematics. Each unit is further divided into modules with a set number of questions.

A significant change occurred in March 2023 when the SAT transitioned from a paper-pencil test to a digital format. While specific eligibility criteria aren't officially defined, high school graduates are generally recommended to take the SAT. Notably, the SAT is widely accepted by U.S. universities and institutions in the UK, Canada, Australia, and more. It's worth mentioning that SAT subject tests were discontinued in June 2021.

Exploring the ACT Exam

The American College Testing (ACT) exam is another standardised test for international students eyeing overseas education. The ACT is slightly longer than the SAT, lasting 2 hours and 55 minutes. It comprises five sections: English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing section. Similar to the SAT, the ACT is accepted by top universities worldwide, making it a viable option for a range of international study destinations.

SAT vs ACT: Key Differences at a Glance

Let's compare the formats of the SAT and ACT exams side by side:

Feature	SAT	ACT
Introduced In	1926	1959
No. of students attempting the test in 2020	2 Million	1.7 Million
Sections	Reading + Writing Mathematics	English Reading Mathematics Science (optional) Essay (optional)
Test duration	2 hrs 14 minutes	2 hrs 55 min (without essay) 3 hrs 35 min (with essay)
Score	400-1600	1-36
Calculator use	Allowed on all math questions	Permitted on all math questions
Mathematics syllabus	Algebra I and II, Geometry and Trigonometry, Arithmetic/Probability/Data Analysis	Algebra I and II, Geometry and Trigonometry, Arithmetic/Probability
Reading passages	5	4
Science syllabus	None, but tested through reading passages	Science-based reasoning and critical thinking
English syllabus	Grammar/Punctuation, Vocabulary, Editing skills, Rhetorical skills	Grammar/Punctuation, Sentence Structure, Essays
Essay	Optional (suspended)	Optional
Frequency of test	Held seven times a year in the US, five times a year internationally	Held six times a year
Test dates	March, May, June, October, and December	February, April, June, July, September, and October
Examination fee	$103 is the international testing fee for the SAT. For Indian applicants, the fee is around ₹8,540 (approx), depending on exchange rates. Check SAT's official website for fee-related updates.	$176.50 (without essay) is the ACT international testing fee $25 is an additional fee for those opting for the optional essay section. For Indian applicants, the overall fee is around ₹14,630 - ₹16,703, depending on exchange rates. Check ACT's official website for fee-related updates.

Navigating Registration

Registering for the SAT and ACT follows distinct processes:

ACT Exam Registration Steps

Visit the official ACT website and sign in.
Fill in the required details and complete the necessary steps.
Select your test center and date.
Finalise registration by submitting payment.

SAT Exam Registration Steps

Log in to the College Board website.
Start the SAT registration, providing details step by step.
Choose your test center and date.
Complete registration by making the payment.

Deciphering Score Conversion

Converting scores between the SAT and ACT can be helpful for comparison. Here's a conversion table to guide you:

SAT Score Range	ACT Score Range (Equivalent)
610-590	9
640-620	10
680-650	11
720-690	12
770-730	13
820-780	14
870-830	15
910-880	16
950-920	17
980-960	18
1020-990	19
1050-1030	20
1090-1060	21
1120-1100	22
1150-1130	23
1190-1160	24
1220-1200	25
1250-1230	26
1290-1260	27
1320-1300	28
1350-1330	29
1380-1360	30
1410-1390	31
1440-1420	32
1480-1450	33
1520-1490	34
1560-1530	35
1600-1570	36

SAT vs ACT: Type of Questions

With regards to how the questions are framed and how that plays out while attempting the test, ACT vs SAT test differ in the following manner:

Key Parameters	SAT	ACT
Nature of questions	Lesser number of questions but more time per question.	Has a greater number of questions with less time per question.
Structure of questions	May have tables, charts or graphs. It has two maths sections contributing to 50% of the total score.	Questions are text based.

Suggested: SAT Preparation Guide

SAT vs ACT: Test Duration

Time plays a vital role in answering a test. Based on your capabilities, you can choose between the two tests and pick one that you think would be able to attempt efficiently and achieve your desired score.

Subjects	Time per Question
Subjects	ACT	SAT
Maths	1 minute	1.81 minutes
Reading	52.5 seconds	1.25 minutes
English (ACT) OR Writing and Language (SAT)	36 seconds	47.72 seconds

The table clearly reflects that the SAT allots students comparatively more time to attempt the different sections in the test.

SAT vs ACT: Cost

Exam fees can be one of the deciding factors while choosing which test to go for. This becomes more critical if one might consider going for multiple attempts of the test to improve their score.

Thus, as can be seen from the following table, the SAT exam fees is relatively cheaper to ACT fees for the international candidates. So, if the exam cost is a concerning criteria, then you might want to go ahead with the SAT exam.

Particulars	SAT	ACT
Registration Fees (In USA)	$55	$60 (without essay) $85 (with essay)
Late Fee	$30	$36
International Fees (For test takers outside USA)	$98-108 (Depends upon test taking region/nation)	$168.5 (without essay) $188.5 (with essay)

The exam fees are subject to change. Students are advised to check the latest updates on official platforms before applying for a test.

Essays Requirement for SAT and ACT

While the essay requirement for SAT and writing requirement for ACT are both optional, there are numerous top colleges that ask for a SAT or ACT essay requirement during the admission process.

SAT essay is more likely to judge you on your analytical skills and abilities. The ACT writing, on the other hand, usually does not have a right or wrong answer, and judges you on your ability to stick to your view point. Both the exams will clearly assess your language skills.

Recommended: All Your Questions on SAT Answered!

Who Accepts the SAT and ACT?

Top universities around the world, along with recognised colleges and institutions accept both SAT and ACT exams. Around 85 countries in the world accept the SAT and ACT exams, with the US and UK topping the list.

Read More
Universities Accepting SAT Score 1300-1400	Universities Accepting SAT Score 900-1000
Universities Accepting SAT Score 1000-1100	Universities Accepting SAT Score 1200-1300

How to Pick the Right Test for Yourself?

To choose the right option between the SAT and ACT exams, it is necessary to start with giving practice tests. There is a high possibility that only one out of both the exams will suit you.

It has usually been observed that students with a strong English background go for the ACT exam, and students who do extremely well in mathematics opt for the SAT exam. Therefore, it becomes essential to analyse your practice tests, and go for the choice you are the most comfortable with.

Suggested: What After the SAT/ ACT Exam?

Sat vs Act: Which is Easier

The million-dollar question: Is SAT easier than ACT? Or is the ACT easier than the SAT? The answer is a complex one. The choice should align with your strengths and comfort zone. If you're adept at math and science, the ACT might be your ally. On the other hand, if your skills lie in math, reading, and English, the SAT could be your preferred path.

Ultimately, the "easier" test is the one that resonates with your strengths and allows you to perform your best. So, obtain the syllabus, time measurement, preferred knowledge, and subject preferences to make an informed decision.

As you begin on this path, remember that both examinations are stepping stones toward your ambition of studying abroad. Choosing the proper one for you will help to a confident start on your route to international education.

Recommended: All about the ACT Exam Preparation

One must note that the answer to the question: “Which is better, ACT or SAT?” is a subjective one. The study material, format and duration, test fee and other essentials are similar to a great extent and both tests are conducted every year. No matter which test you go ahead with, remember to prioritise your preparation and structure it well ahead of time.

Also, there are many students who choose to attempt both tests while seeking admission in undergraduate courses at top educational institutions across the world. If you have even more queries, you can connect with our Yocket Counsellors!

Frequently Asked Questions About SAT vs ACT