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SAT vs ACT at a glance
Both tests are accepted by US colleges, and neither is preferred. The real differences are format and pace. The ACT changed in 2025: it is shorter, Science became optional, and the Composite score now averages English, Math and Reading only.
| SAT | ACT | |
|---|---|---|
| How you take it | On a computer in the Bluebook app | On paper or online, depending on the test center |
| Sections | Reading and Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, plus optional Science and Writing |
| Questions and time | R&W 54 in 64 min, Math 44 in 70 min | English 50 in 35 min, Math 45 in 50 min, Reading 36 in 40 min |
| Required test time | 2 hours 14 minutes | About 2 hours 5 minutes |
| Adaptive | Yes, the second module of each section adapts | No |
| Calculator | Built-in Desmos on every Math question | Your own approved calculator on Math |
| Score scale | 400 to 1600 | 1 to 36 Composite |
For the full SAT layout, see Digital SAT structure, and for how the 400 to 1600 scale works, see SAT scoring.
What changed on the ACT in 2025
Many SAT vs ACT comparisons online still describe the old ACT. The enhanced ACT reached all national test dates in September 2025, and these are the changes that matter when you compare it with the SAT:
- Shorter sections. English dropped from 75 to 50 questions, Math from 60 to 45 and Reading from 40 to 36, with more time per question than before.
- Science is optional. It is scored separately and no longer counts toward the Composite.
- Four answer choices in Math instead of five.
- Some unscored questions. Each section includes field-test questions that do not count toward your score.
The SAT moved to its current digital, adaptive format in 2024 for US students and 2023 internationally. Both tests are now shorter than they were, but the SAT still gives more time per question.
Try the SAT vs ACT quiz
Three SAT questions and four ACT questions, in the style of each test. Pick an answer to see the explanation, what the question tests, and how the other exam handles the same skill. The ACT Science question is included so you can see the optional section.
SAT Reading and Writing Question 1
Researchers studying the migration of monarch butterflies have long assumed that the insects rely mainly on environmental cues such as temperature and daylight to navigate. A recent study, however, suggests that monarchs also carry an internal magnetic compass that works independently of these external ______Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
SAT Reading and Writing Question 2
The architecture firm's design for the new community center included a rooftop garden, a solar panel array and a rainwater collection ______ the project was praised by environmental groups for its sustainable design.Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
SAT Math Question 3
A store sells two types of notebooks. Type A costs $3.50 each and Type B costs $5.00 each. A student buys 12 notebooks in total for $49.50.How many Type A notebooks did the student buy?
How to decide between the SAT and ACT
- Lean toward the SAT if you read carefully rather than fast, like having one short passage per question, and want more time and a built-in graphing calculator.
- Lean toward the ACT if you read and work quickly, are comfortable with geometry and trigonometry, and do well on long passages.
- Check the test centers. Look up which tests, and which dates, are offered at centers near you before you plan.
- Take one full practice test of each. Compare percentiles, not raw scores, then commit to one test and prepare for it properly.
Once you choose the SAT, Solo Prep can help with a plan. Our live online SAT classes run one-on-one or in small groups on Zoom.
FAQ
Do colleges prefer the SAT or the ACT?
No. US colleges that consider test scores accept both and treat them equally. Choose the test you can score higher on.
Is ACT Science still required?
No. Since the 2025 changes, Science is optional and is not part of the ACT Composite score. Some colleges or programs may still ask for it, so check each school.
Which test is shorter?
The required parts are close: about 2 hours 5 minutes for the ACT and 2 hours 14 minutes for the SAT. The ACT gives less time per question.
Should I prepare for both?
Usually not. Take one practice test of each, pick the one that fits, and spend your prep time on that test.
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