The Top 10 Differences Between the SAT and ACT Tests

High school students are often perplexed with the question: Which is better, SAT or ACT? Universities and colleges use both SAT and ACT to evaluate potential students, but there exist some key differences between the two.

The structure of the SAT test differs markedly from that of the ACT. The SAT is split into two parts: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, along with Math. Conversely, the ACT is divided into English, Math, Reading, and Science sections.

Students' strengths and weaknesses determine which test is easier, the SAT or ACT. The SAT may be more suitable for students with strong reading and writing skills. Alternatively, science-oriented students might have an explore features edge with the ACT.

Each test also uses a different scoring scale. The SAT scoring scale stretches from 400 to 1600, while the ACT score ranges from 1 to 36.

SAT and ACT test subjects also noticeably diverge. Reasoning, problem-solving and data analysis are the focus of the SAT math section, on the other hand, the ACT math section tests a wide array of topics from pre-algebra up to trigonometry.

Deciding which test to take - SAT or ACT - is ultimately a matter of personal choice. Most colleges and universities accept either SAT or ACT scores, therefore, it's advantageous to select the test where you can best demonstrate your strengths. In the end, what matters most is not which test students take, but how well they do on it.