We have received many questions about which standardized test students should focus on: the SAT or the ACT. This comes with the recent news that many top-tier colleges have reversed their test-optional policies from COVID-19.
Both these tests are standardized tests that are considered equally by U.S. Colleges. Neither of them tests you on subject knowledge; rather they measure a student’s proficiency in critical thinking, problem-solving, and reading comprehension, all of which are extremely important to succeed in college. Since all colleges accept both test scores, there is no inherent advantage of taking one over the other.
However, there is a big difference in exam length, structure, and format. For instance: As you can see from the chart below, the ACT has over twice as many questions as the DSAT, more sections covering more subjects, and lasts nearly 45 minutes longer, ACT-Big Changes Announced From 2025 | Ivy Central
Ultimately, the choice is up to the student, but we do have a few recommendations:
- Attempt ONE complete practice test of each to gauge personal preferences (in terms of duration and content)
- Make sure there are enough testing centers in your region
- Do NOT spend time preparing for both.
- Neither the SAT nor the ACT is harder than the other. Each student has unique strengths and one tends to do better on one test than the other.
- Give yourself a minimum of 5-6 months of preparation time before you attempt the first test.
We have prepared a table below for easy comparison between the two tests.
If you have any further questions or need guidance with university counseling and beyond, please schedule an introductory meeting with us!
| SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) | ACT (American College Testing) | Key Difference | |
| Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes | 2 hours 55 minutes (without essay)
3 hours 40 minutes (with essay) |
If you work well under time pressure, the SAT is a good fit; if you prefer more time to process questions, go for the ACT. |
| Score | 400-1600 ((800 per section) | 1-36 | The SAT scores each section out of 800, whereas the ACT measures out a more complex breakdown of its sections. |
| Sections | Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
Math (with calculator) |
English
Math (with calculator) Reading Science Reasoning Optional Writing test |
The SAT focuses more on reasoning and problem-solving, while the ACT includes a dedicated science section. |
| Math Focus | Arithmetic
Algebra I & II Geometry, Trigonometry, and Data Analysis |
Geometry, Trigonometry, Probability & Stats | The ACT math section is generally more advanced, while the SAT focuses on multi-step problem-solving. |
| Science Focus | None | 1 science section testing critical thinking skills (not content) | The ACT has a specific science section, making it a better option for students with strong analytical skills in scientific data. |
| Reading & Writing | 2 modules | 4 reading passages | The SAT’s reading section is more analytical, while the ACT emphasizes reading speed and attention to detail. |
| Test Availability | Offered seven times a year by the College Board | Offered seven times a year by ACT Inc. | Both are computer-based tests, although the SAT is offered at more testing centers outside of the US, making it a more popular choice amongst international students. |
ACT Test Schedule
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline | Estimated Score Release |
| December 14, 2024 | November 8, 2024 | November 22, 2024 | December 24, 2024 – February 7, 2025 |
| February 8, 2025 | January 3, 2025 | January 20, 2025 | February 18 – April 4, 2025 |
| April 5, 2025 | February 28, 2025 | March 16, 2025 | April 15 – May 30, 2025 |
| June 14, 2025 | May 9, 2025 | May 26, 2025 | June 24 – August 8, 2025 |
| July 12, 2025* | June 6, 2025 | June 20, 2025 | July 22 – September 5, 2025 |
SAT TEST SCHEDULE
| Test Date | Registration Deadline | Late Registration Deadline |
| Nov 2, 2024 | Oct 18, 2024 | Oct 22, 2024 |
| Dec 7, 2024 | Nov 22, 2024 | Nov 26, 2024 |
| Mar 8, 2025 | Feb 21, 2025 | Feb 25, 2025 |
| May 3, 2025 | Apr 18, 2025 | April 22, 2025 |
| June 7, 2025 | May 22, 2025 | May 27, 2025 |
We guide our students to understand their strengths and then take the test that is best suited for their skill sets.
