SAT vs ACT: Key Differences
| Feature | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes | 2 hours 55 minutes (+ 40 min essay) |
| Sections | Reading & Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Science |
| Score Range | 400-1600 | 1-36 |
| Calculator | Allowed throughout | Allowed throughout |
| Science Section | No | Yes (data analysis) |
| Guessing Penalty | No | No |
Which Test Is Right for You?
Choose the SAT if you:
- Prefer more time per question
- Excel at evidence-based reasoning
- Are strong in math
- Like analyzing passages in depth
Choose the ACT if you:
- Work well under time pressure
- Are comfortable with science data interpretation
- Prefer more straightforward questions
- Are strong across all subjects
Our Recommendation: Take a practice test of each under timed conditions and see which one you score higher on and feel more comfortable with.