SAT vs ACT: which should your teen take?

Key differences

• Format: the SAT is digital and adaptive (2 sections × 2 modules). The ACT is linear, with English, Math, Reading, and optional Science.
• Time per question: the SAT gives about 1 minute 11 seconds per question. The ACT is faster-paced, with about 42 seconds per English question.
• Math: the ACT covers a bit more geometry and trigonometry. The SAT puts more weight on algebra and data analysis.
• Reading: the SAT uses many short passages with one question each. The ACT uses longer passages with several questions each.
• Scoring: the SAT is scored 400–1600. The ACT composite is 1–36.

SAT to ACT score conversion

Approximate, based on the published 2018 concordance tables.

How to decide

1. Take a timed practice test of each, a few days apart.
2. Compare the scores using the chart above.
3. Pick the test with the clearly higher score. If they're close, pick the one your teen preferred taking.