SAT vs. ACT: Which is right for you?

The digital SAT and the enhanced ACT are both accepted by colleges; choosing one depends on your strengths and how you prefer to test. Below we compare format, content, and scores so you can decide.

The following table highlights the structural differences between the digital SAT and the enhanced ACT:

The feel of the content differs significantly between the two tests:

• SAT: Features very short, single-paragraph passages with one question each. Text and vocabulary tend to be more complex.
• ACT: Uses longer passages accompanied by multiple questions per passage. Vocabulary is generally more direct and school-style.

• SAT: Focuses deeply on Algebra, Geometry, and Trigonometry with a focus on problem-solving. About 25% of the section requires student-produced responses.
• ACT: Covers a broader variety of topics, including more Geometry and Trigonometry. Questions are generally more straightforward but fast-paced.

• SAT: There is no standalone Science section; data interpretation is integrated into the Reading, Writing, and Math sections.
• ACT: The Science section is now optional and its score is reported separately from the Composite score.

• SAT: Desmos, a built-in graphing calculator, is available for the entire Math section. Students may also use an approved personal graphing calculator.
• ACT: Desmos is also available for the entire digital Math section. Students may also use an approved personal graphing calculator for both paper and digital formats.

Desmos is available on both the digital SAT and the ACT math section. To get the most out of it, see our Desmos cheat sheet for the SAT. For more on the SAT's structure and pacing, read our complete SAT prep guide.

For free full-length SAT practice tests and lessons, take a Bluebook test and then review and learn concepts in Khan Academy. However, this won't help you compare to the ACT. The best way to decide which test fits you is to take one full-length practice of each with a platform like Acely, and compare your scores.

You can then create a personalized study plan for both the SAT and ACT if you decide to take an official test in both and see how you perform on test day. For more SAT and ACT resources, see our SAT prep hub.

Both tests have similar base registration fees (around $68). The ACT charges extra for the optional Writing section and, in some cases, the optional Science section. Check the College Board and ACT websites for current fees and test dates.

Most colleges accept both tests, so you should decide based on your personal strengths:

• Choose the SAT if:
  • You prefer a more deliberate pace with more time to think through each question.
  • You excel at evidence-based reasoning and analyzing short, dense texts.
  • You are comfortable with an adaptive format that adjusts difficulty as you go.
• Choose the ACT if:
  • You are a naturally fast test-taker who can handle less time per question.
  • You prefer a linear test where the difficulty does not change.
  • You want the option to choose between a digital or a traditional paper-and-pencil exam.
  • You want to take a Science section (if you're applying to a STEM program for example).

To make the best decision, take a full-length practice test for both on a platform like Acely to see which format feels more natural for you.

Most colleges accept both the SAT and ACT, so your choice should match your strengths and format preferences. Here's how to decide:

1. Compare format and timing using the key differences table above.
2. Read the "Choose the SAT if" and "Choose the ACT if" lists to see which aligns with your strengths.
3. Take one full-length practice test for each (e.g. on Acely).
4. Compare your scores and how the tests felt; focus prep on the test that fits you better.

The SAT–ACT concordance is the official table that maps ACT composite scores to equivalent SAT total scores (400–1600). Colleges use it to compare applicants who took different tests. Use the converter below to see how ACT and SAT scores align, based on the official concordance published by the College Board and ACT (2018 study). Section-level concordance (e.g. Math, Reading) is available on the College Board and ACT websites.

* Concordance reflects equivalent percentile ranks across test takers, not a direct conversion. Use it as a guide when comparing score goals or interpreting results from either test.