Although, recently, more universities have waived off their admission test requirements, experts say that having an outstanding test score can still make your application stand out.
SAT and ACT are two of the most widely taken exams to seek admission to undergraduate courses at the top educational institutions of the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia and other popular study-abroad destinations.
The SAT and ACT scores help the college bodies evaluate a student’s aptitude and readiness to join an undergraduate program. The admission committees also consider ACT and SAT scores while awarding merit-based scholarships at some of the top universities.
SAT vs ACT: Key Differences
| Detail | ACT | SAT |
| Full Form | American College Testing | Scholastic Assessment Test |
| Introduced In | 1959 | 1926 |
| Administered By | ACT | College Board |
| Annual Test Takers | 1.38 million | 1.9 million |
| Duration | – 2 hours 55 minutes without Writing – 3 hours and 35 minutes with Writing | 3 hours |
| Band Score | 1-36 | 400-1600 |
| Sections | – English – Mathematics – Reading – Science – Writing (optional) | – Reading – Writing and Language – Maths |
| Test Fee | – $181.50 (INR 15,097) without Writing – $206.50 (INR 1,717) with Writing | – $103 (INR 8,562), including registration and regional fee |
| Frequency of Test | – 7 times a year in the US – 5 times a year internationally | – 7 times a year |
Both the SAT and the ACT exams are internationally recognised standardised tests and are typically required for admissions to schools abroad. Especially in the USA and the UK, most top universities ask for an ACT or SAT score.
But what is the difference between a SAT and an ACT? Where, why and when do you need one? There are numerous doubts that you might come across while choosing the best exam for your study-abroad plan. Let us compare and contrast to pick the right one for you.
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What is the ACT Exam?
The ACT, or American College Testing, is a standardised admission test for universities in the U.S. It is used to evaluate undergraduate applicants.
In addition to the USA, universities and colleges in other countries such as the UK, Canada, Germany and Italy also accept ACT test scores. More than 200 universities outside the USA also accept the ACT score.
More than 1.38 million attempted the ACT in 2023.
The test analyses your aptitude in English, Math, Reading, Science Reasoning, and Essay (optional).
The test components are below:
| Test | Duration | Number of Questions |
| English | 45 minutes | 75 |
| Mathematics | 60 minutes | 60 |
| Reading | 35 minutes | 40 |
| Science | 35 minutes | 40 |
| Writing (optional) | 40 minutes | 1 |
- Administered By: ACT, a non-profit organisation.
- Year of Introduction: The ACT exam started in 1959.
- Frequency of Conduct: The ACT exam is conducted seven times in Canada and the USA; in other nations, including India, it is conducted 5-7 times a year.
- ACT Score Range: The scoring range for the ACT exam is 1 (low) to 36 (high).
- Time Per Section: The ACT exam assigns 45 minutes to the English section, 60 minutes to Maths, 35 minutes to Reading, 35 minutes to the Science section, and 40 minutes to an optional writing section.
- Total Time: The ACT exam is 2 hours 55 minutes without the writing section and 3 hours and 35 minutes with the writing section.
- Total Questions: The total number of questions is 215. There are 75 questions in English, 60 questions in Math, 40 questions in Reading, 40 questions in Science, and 1 optional writing essay in the ACT exam.
- Order of Sections: The ACT exam has English, Math, Reading, Science, and then an optional writing section.
- ACT Test Fee:
| Fee Details | Amount in USD | Amount in INR |
| ACT without Writing | $181.50 | INR 15,097 |
| ACT with Writing | $206.50 | INR 1,717 |
| Test Option Change (to add/remove the writing section) | $25.00 | INR 2,078 |
| Late Registration | $38.00 | INR 3,158 |
| Test Date/Centre Change Fee | $44.00 | INR 3,657 |
| Additional Score Reports | $18.50 | INR 1,537 |
On applying for the ACT, you can choose up to four colleges to which the test reports are supposed to be sent. The cost for this is included in your exam registration fee.
If you intend to send your test report to more than 4 colleges, then you need to pay an additional score report fee for each.
Upcoming test dates for ACT:
| Test dates for ACT 2024 | Application Deadline |
| 23-24 February 2024 | 26 January 2024 |
| 12-13 April 2024 | 15 March 2024 |
| 7-8 June 2024 | 10 May 2024 |
| 12-13 July 2024 | 14 June 2024 |
Also Read: Top 10 Exams to Study Abroad
What is the SAT Exam?
The SAT or Scholastic Assessment Test is a standardised test for college admission in the USA. Apart from the USA, many other countries also opt for the SAT scores, including the UK, Canada and Australia. All four-year universities in the USA opt for the SAT for their undergraduate admissions.
Over 1.9 million students attempted the SAT in 2023.
The test analyses your aptitude and potential to join a university program. It assesses your language, critical reading and mathematics aptitude.
The test components are below:
| Component | Duration | Number of Questions |
| Reading | 65 | 72 |
| Writing and Language | 35 | 44 |
| Maths | 80 | 58 |
- Administered By: The test is administered by the College Board.
- Year of introduction: The SAT exam was introduced in 1926.
- Frequency of Conduct: The SAT exam is conducted seven times a year.
- SAT Score Range: The SAT scoring range is 400 to 1600.
- Time Per Section: The SAT exam has 65 minutes assigned to the Reading section, 35 minutes for the Writing and Language section, and 80 minutes for the Math section.
The duration of the maths section is divided between the calculator portion and the non-calculator portion. The duration of the calculator portion is 55 minutes, and that of the non-calculator portion is 25 minutes.
- Total Time: The SAT exam is conducted for a total of 3 hours.
- Total Questions: The total number of questions is 154. They are divided as follows:
- Reading section – 52
- Writing and Language – 44
- Mathematics – 58
The 58 math questions are further divided into two:
- Calculator Portion – 38
- Non-calculator portion – 20
- Order of Sections: The SAT exam has reading, writing & language, math without a calculator, and math with a calculator section.
- Types of Questions: Most of the questions are multiple-choice questions, except few mathematical problems. They are called grid-ins. Here you have to use the formulas and answer the questions accordingly.
There are 8 grid-in questions in the calculator portion and 5 grid-ins in the non-calculator portion.
- Marking System: There is no negative marking system for wrong answers. So, answering most questions is recommended.
- SAT Test Fee: The SAT registration fee is $60 (INR 4,988) plus a $43 (INR 3,574) regional fee.
The total amount is $103 (INR 8,562).
Upcoming March – June test dates for SAT:
| Test dates for SAT 2024 | Application Deadline |
| 9 March 2024 | 23 February 2024 |
| 4 May 2024 | 19 April 2024 |
| 1 June 2024 | 16 May 2024 |
The anticipated test dates for the August-December period are below:
- August 24, 2024
- October 5, 2024
- November 2, 2024
- December 7, 2024
Also Read: SAT Exam: Know All About SAT Tests
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ACT vs SAT: Major Differences
Both ACT and SAT exams are used for the same purpose, but they differ in various aspects. You can compare the basic elements of both tests to choose the right one for your study abroad plan.
The major differences between the SAT and ACT are as follows.
Type of Questions
- In the SAT exam, there are fewer questions, so more time is assigned per question. The tests consist of both multiple-choice questions and grid-in questions.
- The ACT exam has a greater number of questions, with less time assigned per question. The ACT questions are based on the text given. The ACT solely consists of multiple-choice questions apart from the optional essay.
Cost
- For the SAT, the registration fee is $60 (INR 4,988) and a $43 (INR 3,574) regional fee. The total amount is $103 (INR 8,562). The late fee for the SAT exam is $30 (INR 2,494).
- For the ACT, you have to pay a registration fee of $206.50 (INR 1,717) including the writing section and $181.50 (INR 15,097) without the writing section.
Test Scores
- Both the SAT and ACT exams are scored on different scales. SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, whereas ACT is scored on a scale of 1 to 36. The total score is the average of all the section scores.
- A good SAT overall score is generally between 1200 and 1600 for the top colleges abroad and most top-tier universities ask for an ACT score between 27 and 32.
- ACT Vs SAT score conversion can help you get a comparative overview of your scores in the following manner:
ACT Vs SAT Composite Score:
| ACT | SAT Composite Score |
| 36 ACT Score | 1570 to 1600 SAT Score |
| 35 ACT Score | 1530 to 1560 SAT Score |
| 34 ACT Score | 1490 to 1520 SAT Score |
| 33 ACT Score | 1450 to 1480 SAT Score |
| 32 ACT Score | 1420 to 1440 SAT Score |
| 31 ACT Score | 1390 to 1410 SAT Score |
| 30 ACT Score | 1360 to 1380 SAT Score |
| 29 ACT Score | 1330 to 1350 SAT Score |
| 28 ACT Score | 1300 to 1320 SAT Score |
| 27 ACT Score | 1260 to 1290 SAT Score |
| 26 ACT Score | 1230 to 1250 SAT Score |
| 25 ACT Score | 1200 to 1220 SAT Score |
| 24 ACT Score | 1160 to 1190 SAT Score |
| 23 ACT Score | 1130 to 1150 SAT Score |
| 22 ACT Score | 1100 to 1120 SAT Score |
| 21 ACT Score | 1060 to 1090 SAT Score |
| 20 ACT Score | 1030 to 1050 SAT Score |
| 19 ACT Score | 990 to 1020 SAT Score |
| 18 ACT Score | 960 to 980 SAT Score |
| 17 ACT Score | 920 to 950 SAT Score |
| 16 ACT Score | 880 to 910 SAT Score |
| 15 ACT Score | 830 to 870 SAT Score |
| 14 ACT Score | 780 to 820 SAT Score |
| 13 ACT Score | 730 to 770 SAT Score |
| 12 ACT Score | 690 to 720 SAT Score |
| 11 ACT Score | 650 to 680 SAT Score |
| 10 ACT Score | 620 to 640 SAT Score |
| 9 ACT Score | 590 to 610 SAT Score |
Essay Requirement
- The essay requirements for the SAT and ACT are optional. Many top colleges ask for an ACT or SAT essay requirement during the admission process. Both of these exams clearly assess the candidate’s language skills.
Math Section
- The SAT math section has two subsections — with a calculator and without a calculator. It contributes to about 50 per cent of the SAT score. The SAT exam covers topics of arithmetic, geometry, algebra I & II, trigonometry and data analysis.
- There is only one ACT math section, which can be attempted with a calculator. It covers only 25 per cent of the ACT score. ACT exam math questions cover topics of arithmetic, algebra I & II, geometry, trigonometry, and probability & statistics.
Science Section
- SAT does not have a section to assess the scientific aptitude of a candidate. ACT has an entire section devoted to Science.
- The science section in the SAT exam consists of 40 questions. The duration of the section is 35 minutes.
Command of Evidence Questions
- ACT and SAT exams both have a category assessing the reading skills of a candidate. The SAT exam includes additional ‘command of evidence’ questions. These SAT questions rely on answers to the previous questions.
Reading
- The reading section tests the vocabulary and understanding of a candidate. The SAT exam has five reading passages, whereas the ACT has four reading passages.
Choosing ACT or SAT: Key Points to Consider
The best tests for your undergraduate admissions can vary for each individual. It depends on your strong and weak points, interests and other factors.
Some of the main points to consider while choosing between SAT and ACT are given below.
Compare the tests:
| Feature | SAT | ACT |
| Time per Question | Offers more time per question in all sections | Lesser time per question |
| Mathematics | The mathematics section may be more time-pressured | Included matrix, logs, and trigonometry |
| Science | It does not have a separate science section, which integrates scientific concepts into the Reading, Writing, and Math sections | Has a dedicated Science section |
| Math Content | More weightage for algebra and data analysis | Included matrix, logs, and trigonometry |
| Reading | Reading questions are generally considered easier to follow and answer | Considered more challenging reading questions |
| Essay | No essay section | Optional essay section |
Both tests measure the readiness and proficiency of students in various critical areas, such as reading comprehension and problem-solving that are necessary for success in college. The idea behind both exams is to demonstrate the college readiness of a student.
Other Common Confusions You Might Have:
In Summary
The SAT vs ACT debate is a subjective one. The test fee, format, duration, and study material of both tests are highly similar. Many students opt to take both tests to increase their chances of securing admission to top colleges.
Both ACT and SAT exams hold considerable significance. The choice of ACT vs SAT completely depends on the personal preference of the student.
Universities abroad that accept SAT scores are:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- California Institute of Technology
ACT scores are accepted by:
- Yale University
- Cornell University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Northwestern University
However, more institutions are recognising the need for alternate admission windows. According to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, more than 1,900 four-year colleges have declared to go test-optional or test-blind for fall 2024. This is to ensure the proper accommodation of eligible students.
If you are still confused about your admission tests, the universities you prefer and other details, then try not to waste any more time. Leap Scholar can help guide you throughout the admission process and provide guidance on competitive exams to gain admission to abroad Universities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the SAT exam?
A. The SAT is a standardised test for undergraduate admission in the USA. Apart from the USA, other foreign countries also opt for the test as part of their admission process. It is also known as the Scholastic Assessment Test. The test analyses your language, critical reading and mathematics aptitude. It is a common requirement to join a university or college in the USA, UK, Canada and other foreign countries.
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Q. What is the ACT exam?
A. The ACT is a standardised admission test taken by high school graduates to join an undergraduate program in the USA. Apart from the USA, over 200 universities outside the country opt for ACT scores while applying for their undergraduate admissions. The test assesses your aptitude in English, math, reading, science, and writing (optional).
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Q. What is the difference between the SAT and the ACT?
A. Although the purpose of both tests is to assess your readiness to join an undergraduate program, both tests vary in terms of duration, number of questions, sections, fee and other basic elements. The SAT has 3 components, Reading, Writing and Language and Maths, whereas the ACT has English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and Writing. While the SAT does not have a separate science section, it does include science-related questions within the Reading and Writing sections.
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Q. Is the SAT tougher than the ACT?
A. The toughest exam can be subjective. It can vary depending on your aptitude and strong and weak points. The SAT can be a better option if you are weak in science since the ACT offers a separate section on science. The SAT has an easier reading section. While the SAT does not require an essay section, there is an optional essay question in the ACT.
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Q. Which is more expensive, the SAT or the ACT?
A. The registration fee for the SAT is $60 (INR 4,988), along with a regional fee of $43 (INR 3,574). The total amount is $103 (INR 8,562). For the ACT, you have to pay a registration fee of $206.50 (INR 1,717) including the writing section and $181.50 (INR 15,097) without the writing section. The provided amounts are as per the conversion rate of 1 USD = 83.10 INR, and it may change over time.
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Q. Which is the easiest test, SAT or ACT?
A. The easiest tests for you can vary depending on your potential. The SAT can be easier for students who are not very interested in science. The SAT also has an easier reading section. If you are good with algebra and data analysis, then SAT can be a good option for you. If you are better at matrix, logs, and trigonometry, the ACT is an ideal choice.
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Q. Can I take both the SAT and ACT?
A. Yes, you can take both the ACT and SAT tests. Taking both tests can be better so that you have more options while choosing your university. The SAT is offered seven times a year. The ACT is offered seven times a year in the USA and Canada. In other countries, it is between five and seven.
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Q. Which is the longest test, SAT or ACT?
A. The ACT exam with a writing section is longer than the ACT exam without the writing section and the SAT exam. The duration of the SAT is 3 hours. The ACT exam lasts 2 hours 55 minutes without the writing section and 3 hours and 35 minutes with the writing section. The ACT sessions are English (45 min), Maths (60 min), Reading (35 min), Science (35 min), and Writing (40 min). The SAT sections are Reading (65 min), Writing and Language (35 min), and Maths (80 min).
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Q. Are there negative markings in SAT and ACT?
A. No, there are no negative markings for the SAT and ACT tests. So, it is better to answer as many questions as possible. However, do not waste your time on a single question. If you find a question difficult to answer, then skip it and move to the next question. In the end, if you have time left, then try answering it again.
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Q. Do the SAT and ACT only have multiple-choice questions?
A. The SAT has both multiple-choice and grid-in questions, and the ACT only has multiple-choice questions. The majority of the questions on the SAT are multiple-choice questions. A few mathematical problems are grid-ins. Grid-in questions are those in which you are supposed to apply formulas and answer them.
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Q. How many times can I retake the SAT in a year?
A. You can retake the SAT as many times as you need. However, the test is available only seven times a year. If you want, you can retake it on all the test dates. However, make sure you take a proper break between each take. This is to ensure you get enough preparation time before attempting your SAT.
