ACT vs SAT What's Right for You

So you have decided to do your undergrad studies abroad. Almost everyone who is planning to study abroad knows about the SAT.  But did you know that, even in the USA, more and more students are writing the ACT? ACT scores are widely accepted as part of applications in the USA and many other countries.

How to decide which test is best for you? Here’s a quick comparison of both the tests.

What is the same in both SAT and ACT?

●      SAT and ACT are regarded equivalent and widely accepted by universities for undergrad admissions.

●      Both the scores can be used as part of evaluation criteria for scholarships.

●      SAT and ACT are approximately 3+ hours long

●      Essay is optional in both these tests.

●      Special accommodations are available for students with disabilities in both the tests.

●      Neither of these tests is just a subject/knowledge/content test.

What is different between the two tests?

SAT	ACT
Math contributes to one half of the total SAT score	Math contributes to one fourth of the composite ACT score
There is a “no calculator section” in Math	Calculator is allowed for all math questions
Students have to type in the answers for some math questions	Math test has only multiple choice questions
Though there is no separate Science section, the Reading section has two science passages.	Has a Science test (section) that actually tests comprehension/data interpretation with science based passages and scientific thinking.

 

How to choose?

If you have the time, the best way to decide among the tests is try them both for yourself. Remember both SAT and ACT are 3+ hours long. So it may be better to take them on different days and then decide which test suits you best.

There are also other ways to decide which test suits you better. Here are some facts for you to consider before you make your decision.

●      SAT reading has one passage related to American History. This passage is usually an excerpt from a historical text or speech. So, the passage may contain the language and the style of that historical time, which some students may find difficult to understand.

●      SAT is a slightly longer test but has fewer questions.

●      ACT has a Science Test but actually tests comprehension and data interpretation skills using science based passages. Almost all the questions in the ACT science test can be answered with the information provided.

●      The questions on ACT are more direct than the ones in SAT

 

How to prepare?

For both these tests, many books are available. These books have practice questions and practice tests. If you can prepare by yourself, these books are a good option.

If on the other hand, you require more guidance and support then a SAT or ACT course may be more helpful for you. Many online courses and in person classes are available, and you can select one that suits you. It is important to select a course with relevant/comprehensive prep material, expert teachers and practice tests similar to the actual test.

If you have already prepared for the SAT, you can easily do an SAT to ACT bridge course or ACT bridge program and ace the ACT. On the other hand if you have already studied for the ACT, an SAT bridge program may be more suitable for you. This is because the concepts tested in both the tests are quite similar, but the format, style and focus of the exams are significantly different.

It is possible to score well in both SAT and ACT with proper guidance and effort. So, whichever test you choose, give it your best efforts and ace the test!