ACT vs SAT 2025: Which is Easier?

When it comes to college admissions in the USA and other countries, ACT vs SAT is one of the biggest decisions students like you face. 

You may often wonder, “Which is easier, the ACT or SAT?” With around 2 million students taking the SAT and 1.4 million students choosing the ACT in 2024, it’s clear that both exams play a major role in college applications. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ACT vs SAT, helping you make an informed decision about which one to take. Read on and take a closer look at both exams!

Key Highlights

The ACT and SAT are two of the most popular tests used by colleges in the USA to decide which students to admit. They both check how ready you are for college-level work, but they do it in slightly different ways. 

• ACT: The ACT tests your skills in English, Math, Reading, and Science with an optional Essay. It focuses on what you’ve learned in school, including some scientific reasoning to test your ability to interpret data and solve problems.
• SAT: The SAT focuses more on your Math and Reading skills, plus Writing. There is no science section, and the test is more about your ability to think critically and solve problems than just recall information. The SAT has a 23% shorter duration than the traditional ACT.

The ACT and SAT are both designed to assess your academic skills, but they go about it in slightly different ways. Knowing how these tests differ can help you decide which one is a better fit for you.

Here are ACT vs SAT key differences.

Now that you have looked at the differences between the ACT vs SAT, it’s good to know that despite those differences, these two tests have quite a bit in common.

• Both tests cover Math, Reading, and Writing, though they approach them slightly differently.
• No penalties for wrong answers on either test, so it’s best to attempt all questions.
• Both exams are multiple-choice.
• Almost all US colleges accept either the ACT or SAT scores for admissions.
• Both tests are offered multiple times a year, giving you flexibility on when to take them.
• There are plenty of test prep resources available for both exams, including free materials from the College Board (for SAT) and ACT, Inc. (for ACT).

As a student studying under the CBSE or ICSE curriculum, you’re already familiar with subjects like Mathematics, Science, and English. Both the ACT vs SAT test these areas, but these tests each have a unique approach. 

Here is a comparison of ACT vs SAT exam formats to help you understand which exam suits you best.

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If you’re juggling between the ACT vs SAT, understanding how your scores translate from one test to the other is super important. 

The two exams use different scoring systems, but don’t worry – there is a handy score conversion chart to help you make sense of it all.

SAT vs ACT Score Conversion Table

In the USA, almost all accredited colleges and over 4,000 universities accept either ACT or SAT scores. So, whether you choose the ACT or SAT, you won’t be limited in your options.

Below is a list of top universities in the USA that require or accept ACT vs SAT scores.

When choosing between the ACT vs SAT, it’s important to think about the costs involved. Understanding the fee structure can help you make a more informed decision. 

Here is the breakdown of ACT vs SAT cost.

The ACT is slightly cheaper than the SAT for the basic exam. However, additional services like late registration or changing test centres can add extra costs. The ACT is pricier for these services. In general, ACT is more affordable.

Registering for the SAT and ACT is pretty simple, but you need to follow the steps carefully to avoid any mistakes. Here’s how to do it for each exam.

1. Create an Account: Visit the College Board website and create an account.
2. Fill in Personal Details: Enter your personal information, such as name, date of birth, and address.
3. Choose Test Date & Location: Select a test date and test centre near you. 
4. Upload a Photo: You’ll need to upload a passport-style photo.
5. Review and Confirm: Double-check all the details before moving ahead.
6. Pay the Fee: Pay the exam fee and save your SAT admission ticket.

1. Create an Account: Visit the ACT website and create a MyACT account.
2. Fill in Personal Details: Provide your personal details and educational background.
3. Select Test Date & Centre: Choose your preferred test date and centre location. 
4. Complete the Application Form:

• Upload a recent photograph.
• Fill in your educational details and your parents’ information.
• Select up to four colleges to receive your ACT scores.
• Choose how to send your scores to those colleges.
• Submit any required documentation.

5. Payment: Pay for the exam fees and print your admission ticket to bring on test day.

Before registering for the SAT or ACT, make sure you have the following documents ready.

1. Photo ID: A valid photo ID is essential for ACT vs SAT registration. This could be

• Passport
• Aadhaar card
• School ID (for students under 18)

2. Passport-style Photo

3. Proof of Fee Waiver (if applicable): If you qualify for a fee waiver, ensure you provide the necessary documents to confirm your eligibility.

The truth is, what feels “easier” depends on how you approach tests and what you’re good at. Both exams measure similar skills, but the format and the way the questions are asked can make one feel simpler than the other for you. 

Here’s a breakdown of what makes each test easier or harder.

1. More Time Per Question: On the SAT, you get around 1 minute and 10 seconds per question, so if you need a bit more time to think, this could work in your favour.
2. Focus on Problem-Solving: The SAT tests your reasoning skills more than just memorising facts. For example, its reading section requires deep analysis, which some of you might find easier.
3. No Science Section: If you’re not great at science, you’ll appreciate that the SAT doesn’t have a separate science section to worry about.
4. Shorter Passages: If you find it difficult to read long passages in English, then the SAT may be a better option as it has shorter passages.

1. Straightforward Questions: The ACT has more direct questions, especially in reading and math. If you’re good with clear, factual questions, you might find this exam easier.
2. Science Section: The science section isn’t about scientific knowledge. It’s about interpreting data. If that’s your thing, you might actually enjoy it.
3. Faster Pace: The ACT moves quickly. If you’re someone who works well under pressure and enjoys racing through questions, this could be your exam.
4. Superscoring: If you take the ACT multiple times, you can combine your best section scores. This means less pressure to get everything perfect in one sitting.

If you like taking your time and thinking through problems carefully, the SAT might be the way to go. If you’re quick with straightforward questions and can handle pressure, the ACT could feel more natural.

Ultimately, the “easier” exam will depend on your test-taking style, how well you manage time, and which format best suits your strengths. It’s a good idea to take practice tests for both the SAT and ACT to see which test feels more comfortable for you.

Deciding between the SAT and ACT? The right prep makes all the difference. Here are some tips to prepare for both the tests.

1. Know the Test Format: Familiarise yourself with the structure of both tests. 
2. Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key. Take full-length practice tests under timed conditions to improve speed and endurance.
3. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak points, whether it’s math, reading, or time management, and dedicate extra time to improving them.
4. Take Coaching: If you want to level up your prep, coaching can really help. Leap Scholar SAT Coaching offers 1:1 expert tutoring, 100+ mock tests, and personalised feedback.
5. Stay Calm and Manage Time: Both tests are timed, so practise pacing yourself. Don’t spend too much time on difficult questions—move on and come back if you have time.

Still unsure whether the SAT or ACT is right for you? Take a free SAT masterclass with LEAP to understand how to get the best possible score for your dream university.