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Most colleges accept either the SAT or the ACT, so the choice is yours. Both tests have undergone significant changes and now share many similarities. However, key differences remain.
Take Our Quiz: Our “Should I Take the SAT or ACT?” quiz can help you decide. It’s designed to match your strengths with the test that’s right for you.
SAT
• Total Time: 2 hours, 14 minutes
• Sections: Reading & Writing, Math
• Science Section: No dedicated Science section, but science-related questions are integrated into other sections.
• Math Focus: Strong emphasis on algebra, with some geometry and trigonometry. Calculator is allowed on all math questions.
• Pacing: More time per question on average.
ACT
• Total Time: 2 hours, 55 minutes (plus optional 40-minute essay)
• Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science
• Science Section: A dedicated Science section that tests your ability to interpret data, graphs, and charts.
• Math Focus: Broader range of math topics, including more geometry and trigonometry. Calculator is allowed on all math questions.
• Pacing: Less time per question, making it a faster-paced test.
• You’re a strong reader: The SAT’s Reading & Writing section has complex passages and a strong emphasis on vocabulary in context.
• You’re good at algebra: The SAT Math section is heavily weighted toward algebra.
• You like having more time per question: The SAT is generally less time-pressured than the ACT.
• You’re strong in science: The ACT has a dedicated Science section that tests your data interpretation skills.
• You’re good at a wide range of math topics: The ACT covers a broader spectrum of math, including more geometry and trigonometry.
• You work well under pressure: The ACT is a faster-paced test, so you need to be able to move quickly and efficiently.
The best way to know for sure is to take a full-length practice test for both the SAT and the ACT. Compare your scores and see which test you feel more comfortable with. At Preppinbee, we offer free practice tests for both, so you can make an informed decision.
Ready to find your best fit? Take our quiz or sign up for a free practice test today!
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