SAT vs. ACT: Which Exam Is “Better?”

When college-bound students start preparing for the SAT or ACT, it’s common for them to wonder which test is better and if the ACT and SAT are considered equally in the application review process. There’s been a long-held myth that one test is favored over the other, but U.S. colleges and universities review the SAT and ACT equally.

Comparing the ACT and SAT

The ACT and SAT are accepted at all U.S. colleges and universities, and admissions committees do not have a preference. This is why it’s important for students to take the test that is the best fit for them, rather than just taking one over the other based on common misconceptions about how college applications are reviewed.

Although the differences between the examinations may be slight, variables such as pacing strategies, the wording of questions, and exam layouts can produce better results on one exam vs. another depending on the student. At IvyWise, we recommend taking one practice test of each under realistic testing conditions, scoring both tests, and comparing initial scores. That’s the best way to determine which test is better suited to your individual abilities.

Further Reading:

• How to Decide Between the ACT and SAT
• When Should I Start Studying for the SAT or ACT?
• How to Take Standardized Tests This Spring
• Test Prep Checklist for Sophomores and Juniors

ACT Sections and Format

Students who choose to take the ACT have two options: a paper and pencil test or the online format. Regardless of which format you choose, the total testing time for the required sections is 2 hours and 5 minutes, not including the 15-minute break after the math section.

The English, Math, and Reading sections are knowledge-based and entirely multiple-choice. The total ACT composite score is an average of all three sections, which are each scored on a scale of one to 36.

While it may seem like a no-brainer to opt out of the Science and Writing sections, check the testing policies at each school on your college list first. Some schools may require or recommend them. Boston University, for example, requires students who submit the ACT to include Science section scores. Regardless, you might consider taking one or both, especially if you plan to pursue a STEM and/or writing-intensive major.

Further Reading:

• ACT Formulas and Programs
• ACT Math Prep Guide
• How Much Science Do You Need to Know for the ACT?
• How to Read Your ACT Score Report
• What Is a Good ACT Score?

SAT Sections and Format

Students who choose the SAT will be taking the exam on a computer. The total exam time is 2 hours and 14 minutes, not including the 10-minute break between sections.

Unlike the ACT, which is more knowledge-based, the SAT focuses more on reasoning. It’s worth noting that the SAT is adaptive, meaning the questions in the second module of each section will be more or less challenging based on your performance in the first module. Each section is scored out of 800, making the highest possible score 1600.

Further Reading:

• The SAT Math Test: Everything You Need to Know
• How to Read Your SAT Score Report
• What Is a Good SAT Score?

Understanding Concordance

There is such a close connection of representation between the SAT and ACT that the College Board and the ACT began working together to publish a concordance table comparing the two examinations. The most recent version, “Guide to the 2018 ACT/SAT Concordance,” establishes percentile groups for students (based on student scores) for both examinations.

It is important to recognize when comparing percentiles, subscore performances do not seamlessly translate across the ACT and SAT. Given the different time restrictions on the exam, content-difficulty layout, and subtle differences in question composition, score conversions are never definite. Ultimately, due to the concordance tables, colleges can compare students that have taken either examination.

What About Test-Optional Admissions?

Currently, over 2,000 colleges and universities across the U.S. have test-optional admissions policies. While it might be tempting not to take standardized tests at all, it’s worth considering that more schools each year are reinstating standardized testing requirements. Besides, even at test-optional schools, a strong test score can give your application a boost. After all, both the SAT and ACT test your mastery of core concepts and competencies you need to succeed at the college level. Combined with your GPA and course rigor, test scores help give the admissions committee a more complete picture of how you perform academically.

Developing a Testing Strategy

Once you have decided which test is the best fit for you, it’s time to think about your testing strategy. Having a test prep plan will help you use your time more efficiently and feel more confident on test day — which helps combat test anxiety! You can find numerous free test prep resources, including apps, online practice tests, courses, and more. Consider how you best learn and retain information as you plan your strategy and use the study methods that work best for you.

Additional Resources:

• How to Overcome a Difficult Math Equation
• Mastering SAT and ACT Reading Comprehension Passages
• 5 Math Concepts Students Need to Master for the ACT and SAT

If you need accountability, consider working with a test prep tutor. At IvyWise, our ACT and SAT experts have extensive experience with standardized tests and customize test prep to each student’s learning style and goals.

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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in August 2018 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.