Choosing Between the SAT and ACT: A Step-by-Step Guide

Almost all students out there have had this one question in their minds: “Should I go for the SAT or the ACT?”, Both are standardized exams and are sent to colleges, though their compulsory status is no longer there, colleges and universities, especially the Ivy League, still check the Standardized test scores, and they take special consideration based on them.

So, who should you make your choice in this SAT vs ACT Prep debate? Every test covers different subjects, has a distinct structure, and employs a unique scoring system. Still, both are used to gauge students’ competency in fundamental subjects, including reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Understanding the basic elements of any standardized testing options and the main differences between the ACT and SAT will be made easier with guidance from this article.

Understand the Basics

Before we dive deep into the SAT vs ACT prep debate, we first have to understand what both of these exams are:

• SAT: Universities and colleges in the United States use the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) as an additional criterion for admitting overseas students. It tests candidates in three areas: reading, writing, language, and math. That is a multiple-choice, computer-based test. Each section Reading & Writing, Mathematics has an 800-point weightage, while candidates are scored out of 1600.
• ACT: For overseas students studying at American colleges and universities, ACT, short for American College Testing, is another accepted test. English, math, reading, science, and writing optional are its five divisions. Candidates are scored between 1 and 36. Like the SAT, US colleges also use the ACT as an additional test for the admission of international students.

Now, let’s get into the SAT vs ACT Prep debate and figure out the difference between the two.

Key Differences Between SAT and ACT 

There are many aspects to the SAT vs. ACT Prep debate. The table below underscores the differences between the two exams.

Feature	SAT	ACT
Sections	Reading, Writing & Language, Math	English, Math, Reading, Science
Optional Essay	Discontinued	Not required, but optional. The essay will assess how well one evaluates and investigates complex problems.
Scoring	400–1600 (each section scored out of 800)	1–36 composite score
Time per Section	~3 hours	~2 hours 55 minutes
Math Calculator Use	One section with a calculator, one without	Calculator allowed for the entire Math section
Science Section	No	Yes (tests interpretation, not science facts)
Reading Style	Evidence-based, slightly more complex	More straightforward
Popularity by Region	More common on the East and West Coasts	Popular in the Midwest and South
Test Dates	7 times/year	7 times/year
Best For	Students who are strong in math and evidence-based reading	Fast readers and data interpreters

Now, both standardised testing options seem really good, so how should you choose between the two?

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which Test to Take

There are five steps you need to diligently follow in order to settle this SAT vs ACT prep dilemma once and for all:

Step 1: Know Your Strengths

You need first to figure out your strengths:

• Do graphs, charts, and data interpretation call for your particular strengths? The ACT has a specific Science portion where your ability to evaluate visual information and scientific reasoning will be tested, rather than actual scientific knowledge.
• Are you more math confident without a calculator? The No-Calculator Math part of the SAT should let you feel at ease dealing with numbers by hand and solving equations.
• Good at reading comprehension and vocabulary? The SAT favours evidence-based reading and calls for you to back up your responses with textual evidence.

Knowing your natural performance in several academic domains can help you quickly choose the better fit.

Step 2: Take Practice Tests for Both

No matter which option fits the perfect criteria, you need to practice both tests, because what happens is students think they’re good at something, until they’re actually not, and it costs them a lot.

Take both practice tests; free materials are available on the College Board website. for both the tests, and they’re the same governing body that oversees the tests, and hence, it’s one of the best practice tests out there.

Step 3: Consider Time Management Skills

In addition to strengths and weaknesses, you also need to assess your time management skills. Your test-day performance might be ruined or enhanced by time constraints.

• For students who would rather approach problems deliberately and thoughtfully, the SAT provides additional time for each question.

The ACT moves more quickly, hence it’s more suited for:

• Speed readers
• Students who do not second-guess responses
• Those accustomed to finishing tests quickly, Practice exams will let you determine whether you flourish with a little more breathing room (SAT) or whether you can remain calm under more limited time constraints (ACT).

Step 4: Think About College Preferences

Though a few subtleties can make a difference, most American universities accept both the SAT and the ACT without preference.

• Visit the admissions websites of the colleges of your choice.

Some universities could:

• List the averages of admitted students according to test type.
• For every test, super score that is, combine the best section scores over several attempts—differently.
• Demand more SAT Subject Tests less common today or give the ACT Science portion top priority. Selecting a test that fits the standards of your dream universities will help you stand out from others.

Step 5: Consider Cost and Retake Plans

Both tests cost money; retaking them can mount up.

• Standard registration, or SAT (2025 fee): $60
• ACT (2025 fee): $93 with writing; $68 without writing
• Retakes imply repeating those costs, so make wise plans.
• Review the fee waivers available to qualified students. The College Board and the ACT offer them. Before retaking, also consider whether you would want to invest in prep materials or courses, such as those provided by Turito.

Conclusion

Your strengths, timing, and college objectives will determine which of the SAT vs. ACT prep courses best fit you. Understanding the variations, practising both, and making wise plans can help you choose the test that most effectively highlights your abilities. Like Turito’s prepping tools, success is within grasp with the correct plan and help.

Frequently Asked Questions