Test Structure

The ACT is organized into four primary sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, along with an optional Writing section. The SAT, however, is structured into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math, and also offers an optional Essay section.

Test Content

The ACT is generally understood to focus more on assessing a student's content knowledge. It includes a Science section, absent in the SAT, and tends to feature more advanced math questions. Conversely, the SAT places a greater emphasis on problem-solving abilities. Its content often prioritizes vocabulary and the interpretation of charts and graphs, particularly in the reading and writing sections.

Scoring

Scoring for these tests also differs. The ACT uses a scale from 1 to 36, providing four separate scores for each section in addition to an overall composite score. In contrast, the SAT utilizes a scale from 400 to 1600, giving separate scores for the reading/writing and math sections.

Timing

The total testing time for each exam also varies. Without the optional sections, the ACT takes 2 hours and 55 minutes, extending to 3 hours and 35 minutes with the Writing section. The SAT has a total testing time of 3 hours, which extends to 3 hours and 50 minutes with the optional Essay section.

Superscoring

This method combines a student's best section scores from multiple tests to form a new, potentially higher, composite score. Superscoring is not an official policy of the ACT or College Board. Whether or not superscores are considered largely depends on the individual policies of colleges and universities.

Choosing the Right Test

The differences between the ACT and SAT lie in their structure, content, scoring formats, and timing. It's paramount for students to consult with the colleges and universities they are interested in applying to, to understand which test(s) they require or prefer, although most institutions accept either test.