SAT vs ACT- Which test is right for you?
Choosing between the SAT and the ACT depends on your strengths and preferences. Here are a few considerations to help you decide:
- Test Structure and Content: The SAT emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving skills, particularly in reading and math. The ACT includes these areas but also tests science reasoning and allows a calculator for all math questions.
- Time Per Question: The SAT generally provides more time per question than the ACT, which could be beneficial if you prefer not to feel rushed.
- Scoring: Neither test penalizes for wrong answers, so you can guess without risking your score.
- College Requirements: Check if the colleges youâre interested in prefer one test over the other, although most accept both.
Check the Exam Pattern of SAT vs ACT:
|
Areas of Difference |
SAT |
ACT |
|---|---|---|
|
Sections |
|
|
|
Test Duration |
2 hrs 14 minutes |
2 hrs 55 min (without essay) 3 hrs 35 min (with essay) |
|
Score |
Scored on a scale of 400-1600 |
Scored on a scale of 1-36 |
|
Calculator use |
The calculator be used for all math questions |
The calculator be used on all math questions |
|
Mathematics Syllabus |
Algebra I and II Geometry and Trigonometry Arithmetic/Probability/Data Analysis |
Algebra I and II Geometry and Trigonometry Arithmetic/Probability |
|
Reading Syllabus |
5 reading Passages |
4 reading passages |
|
Science Syllabus |
There is none. But tested through the reading passages. |
The Science section on ACT does not test knowledge on any particular science subject. It will test your science-based reasoning and critical thinking abilities. |
|
English or Writing/Language Syllabus |
Grammar/Punctuation Vocabulary Editing skills |
Rhetorical skills Grammar/Punctuation Sentence Structure |
|
Essays |
The optional essay section of SAT stands suspended. |
The optional essay section of ACT will test analytical and evaluation skills. |
|
Frequency of Test |
Held 7 times a year in the US Held 5 times a year internationally |
Held 6 times a year |
|
Test Dates |
March, May, June, October, and December |
February, April, June, July, September, and October |
|
Examination Fee |
$103 is the international testing fee for the SAT For Indian applicants, the fee is around âč8,570 (approx) depending on the latest exchange rates. Check SATâs official website for fee-related updates |
$181.50 (without essay) is ACT international testing fee $25 is an additional fee for those opting optional essay section For Indian applicants, the overall fee is around âč15,101 â âč17,182 depending on the current exchange rates. Check ACTâs official website for fee-related updates |
Ultimately, consider taking practice tests for both the SAT and ACT to see which one feels more comfortable for you.
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