SAT or ACT: which test should you take?

If you are applying to universities in the USA, or to programmes elsewhere that ask for an American admissions test, you will almost certainly face the question: SAT or ACT? Both tests have changed significantly in the last few years, so advice from an older sibling or a forum post from 2020 may now be out of date.

This guide compares the two tests as they stand in 2026 and gives a practical way to choose. The short answer to "which is easier, SAT or ACT?" is that neither is easier overall. One will usually suit you better.

Do universities prefer one test?

US universities that consider test scores generally accept the SAT and the ACT equally, and they do not favour one over the other. Policies on whether scores are required, optional or not considered vary from university to university and have shifted in recent years, so always check the admissions page of each place you plan to apply to.

The digital SAT at a glance

The SAT is now taken on a computer or tablet using the College Board's testing app, rather than on paper.

• Two sections: Reading and Writing, and Math.
• Adaptive format: each section is split into two modules, and your performance on the first module determines the difficulty of the second.
• Length: about 2 hours 14 minutes of testing time, plus a short break.
• Scoring: 400–1600 in total, made up of two section scores of 200–800 each.
• Reading passages are short: each question is attached to its own brief passage rather than long texts with many questions.
• Calculator allowed for all of Math: a built-in graphing calculator is available, and you may also bring an approved one.

The updated ACT at a glance

The ACT introduced a refreshed format from 2025. The headline changes are a shorter test, fewer questions and more time per question, and the Science section becoming optional.

• Core sections: English, Math and Reading.
• Science is optional: you can choose whether to take it. Check whether any of your target universities or programmes ask for it.
• Writing (essay) is also optional.
• Scoring: each section is scored 1–36, and the composite score of 1–36 is based on English, Math and Reading.
• Format: available on paper or online, depending on the test centre and country.
• Not adaptive: everyone answers the same set of questions, so you can skip and return within a section.

Key differences that affect which test suits you

Pace and timing

Both tests ask you to work quickly, but the feel is different. The SAT gives slightly more time per question on average and uses short passages. The ACT has historically been the faster-paced test; the new format eases this, but students who struggle under time pressure often still find the SAT more comfortable.

Maths content

The SAT's Math focuses heavily on algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, with some geometry and trigonometry. The ACT's Math covers a broader range of topics, including more geometry and some topics like matrices or logarithms that the SAT rarely tests. If your maths is strong across the board, the ACT may reward that breadth. If algebra is your strength, the SAT may suit you.

Reading style

The SAT's short passages, each with one question, suit students who like to focus on one thing at a time. The ACT's Reading section uses longer passages with several questions each, which suits confident, fast readers who can hold a whole text in mind.

Adaptive versus fixed

Some students like the digital SAT's adaptive design because the test feels tailored. Others prefer the ACT's fixed paper, where you can see the whole section and choose the order in which you answer. Neither is better; it is a matter of temperament.

Science

The SAT has no separate science section, although some questions use scientific data. On the ACT, Science is now optional. If a university you are applying to wants a science score, or you are a strong science student who wants to show it, the ACT gives you that option.

A simple way to decide

1. Take an official full-length practice test of each under timed conditions. Both organisations publish free practice material.
2. Compare your results using an official concordance table, which converts SAT scores to ACT scores and vice versa.
3. Think about how each test felt. Did you run out of time? Did the adaptive format unsettle you? Did longer passages drain you?
4. Choose one test and commit. Preparing for both at once usually means doing neither well.
5. Plan for a retake. Many students sit their chosen test more than once, so leave room in your calendar.

If the two scores are very close, pick the test whose format you enjoyed more. You will prepare more willingly for a test you do not dread.

How to prepare effectively

• Start preparing a few months before your intended test date, not a few weeks.
• Use full-length timed practice tests regularly, not just topic drills.
• Review every mistake and keep an error log so the same type of question does not catch you twice.
• Fix maths gaps early. Our Maths and Science coaching can rebuild weak foundations alongside test prep.
• Practise on the real format. For the SAT, that means getting used to the digital testing app before test day.

Our SAT and ACT preparation course offers live one-on-one tutoring with timed practice tests, Math and Reading and Writing drills, and test strategy. Sessions usually run 45–60 minutes and are scheduled in your local time zone, which helps families in the USA as well as international students in the UK and Australia. You can see how it works and check monthly fees before you decide.

The right test is the one that lets you show what you can do. Take both practice tests, look honestly at the results, and then put your energy into one clear plan.

Frequently asked questions