How to Choose Between the SAT & the ACT for College Standardized Tests

Selecting the appropriate standardized test is a pivotal step in the college admissions journey. As students begin to navigate their path toward higher education, deciding whether to pursue the SAT or the ACT can significantly impact their performance and stress levels.Understanding the unique characteristics of each exam allows families to make an informed decision that aligns with a student's natural strengths and academic goals. 

Understanding the Fundamental Differences

The SAT and ACT differ across several critical dimensions, starting with the time allotted for each section. Generally, the SAT provides test-takers with more time per individual question, whereas the ACT is known for being a much speedier exam that requires rapid pacing. Beyond timing, the reading levels also vary; the ACT typically features a slightly lower reading level, roughly equivalent to a ninth-grade standard, compared to the more challenging texts found on the SAT.

When looking at verbal and grammar content, the SAT focuses heavily on reading comprehension with less of an emphasis on formal grammar rules. In contrast, the ACT explicitly splits its verbal content into distinct English and reading sections. The math sections also follow different philosophies. The ACT math section is broader in scope, testing a larger variety of concepts including deeper dives into geometry, statistics, and advanced algebra. While the SAT focuses more heavily on algebra, it presents problems as complex, multi-step word problems that test logical application.

The format and specific sections also distinguish the two. The SAT is now entirely digital and taken via the Blue Book app, while the ACT maintains more flexibility by offering an option for traditional paper-based testing. Furthermore, the ACT includes a science section, which is currently optional, while the SAT has no dedicated science portion. Finally, the scoring nuances are distinct; every question on the ACT is worth one point, but the SAT utilizes Item Response Theory, where missing easier questions can sometimes negatively affect a student's score more than missing harder ones.

How to Choose the Right Test for You 

Determining which test is the best fit begins with understanding your local environment and your own baseline performance. Many students should first check their state requirements, as some states mandate either the ACT or the SAT for all high schoolers. In these instances, local schools and teachers often tailor their curriculum to that specific test, making students naturally better prepared for that format. However, the most reliable method for most students is to take unprepped, cold practice baselines of both exams within a close timeframe to see which feels more intuitive.

Once practice tests are completed, the next step is to compare percentiles rather than raw scores, as the scales are entirely different. Experts suggest using a heuristic where a student should pursue the stronger test if there is more than a 60-point equivalent difference on the SAT scale. Additionally, academic interests and intended majors should play a role in the decision. For instance, students planning to major in STEM fields may find the ACT advantageous because opting into the optional science section can generate a distinct STEM score to highlight their math and science proficiency to prospective colleges.

Planning Your Testing Timeline

Developing a strategic timeline is essential for success and for maintaining a healthy balance during the busy junior year. Students should map out a lighter testing season by reviewing their personal calendars and avoiding heavy preparation during intense periods like peak athletic travel, varsity debate seasons, theater productions, or AP exam weeks. For students with particularly rigorous course loads, the summer before junior year often serves as an ideal window to complete the heaviest content lifting and initial test preparation.

Effective planning also involves working backwards from application deadlines. Students aiming for Early Decision or Early Action, which typically have deadlines around mid-October or November 1, should ideally wrap up their official testing by the September ACT or October SAT. A standard, comprehensive plan should budget for three official attempts. Most students see natural gains in both confidence and score through their third attempt, though experts warn that testing more than four times usually leads to plateaus and burnout.

This blog is extracted from the session on "How to Succeed on the SAT or ACT Exam" from the Break Into College Series where testing experts from Kaplan and Applerouth Education broke down everything parents and high schoolers need to know about standardized testing. You can watch the full recording of the session on YouTube via the link down below:

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