SAT or ACT? Do you know which test is right for you?
Colleges accept both tests equally, so the choice is up to you! here’s what you need to know to compare the exams.
Why take it?
Colleges use both SAT and ACT scores for admissions and merit-based scholarships
Test structure
The SAT consists of math, reading, writing and language, and an optional essay writing sections. In addition, the ACT also has a science section.
Length
Sat: 3 hours (without essay) or 3 hours, 50 minutes (with the essay)
ACT: 2 hours, 55 minutes (without essay) or 3 hours, 40 minutes (with essay)
Reading
SAT: 5 reading passages
ACT: 4 reading passages
Science
ACT only: 1 science section testing your critical thinking skills (as opposed to your knowledge of specific scientific concepts)
Math
The SAT covers arithmetic, algebra I & II, geometry, trigonometry, and data analysis; the ACT covers everything except for data analysis.
Tools you can bring
Some sections of the SAT restrict the use of a calculator, but you can use a calculator on all math questions in the ACT.
Essay
The essay section is optional in both tests. In the SAT, it will test how well you comprehend a source text, whereas the ACT essay will test how well you evaluate and analyze complex issues.
Scoring
There are specific scores required for any NCAA division level. (For the ACT, the NCAA adds section scores together into a sum score.)
Division I SAT or ACT score minimum: 400 or 37
Division II SAT or ACT score minimum: 820 or 68
Division III: No minimum requirement.
By: NCSA
