SAT vs ACT- Which test is right for you?

Choosing between the SAT and the ACT depends on your strengths and preferences. Here are a few considerations to help you decide:

1. Test Structure and Content: The SAT emphasizes reasoning and problem-solving skills, particularly in reading and math. The ACT includes these areas but also tests science reasoning and allows a calculator for all math questions.
2. Time Per Question: The SAT generally provides more time per question than the ACT, which could be beneficial if you prefer not to feel rushed.
3. Scoring: Neither test penalizes for wrong answers, so you can guess without risking your score.
4. College Requirements: Check if the colleges you’re interested in prefer one test over the other, although most accept both.

Check the Exam Pattern of SAT vs ACT:

Areas of Difference	SAT	ACT
Sections	Reading + Writing Mathematics	English Reading Mathematics Science Essay (Optional)
Test Duration	2 hrs 14 minutes	2 hrs 55 min (without essay) 3 hrs 35 min (with essay)
Score	Scored on a scale of 400-1600	Scored on a scale of 1-36
Calculator use	The calculator be used for all math questions	The calculator be used on all math questions
Mathematics Syllabus	Algebra I and II Geometry and Trigonometry Arithmetic/Probability/Data Analysis	Algebra I and II Geometry and Trigonometry Arithmetic/Probability
Reading Syllabus	5 reading Passages	4 reading passages
Science Syllabus	There is none. But tested through the reading passages.	The Science section on ACT does not test knowledge on any particular science subject. It will test your science-based reasoning and critical thinking abilities.
English or Writing/Language Syllabus	Grammar/Punctuation Vocabulary Editing skills	Rhetorical skills Grammar/Punctuation Sentence Structure
Essays	The optional essay section of SAT stands suspended.	The optional essay section of ACT will test analytical and evaluation skills.
Frequency of Test	Held 7 times a year in the US Held 5 times a year internationally	Held 6 times a year
Test Dates	March, May, June, October, and December	February, April, June, July, September, and October
Examination Fee	$103 is the international testing fee for the SAT For Indian applicants, the fee is around ₹8,570 (approx) depending on the latest exchange rates. Check SAT’s official website for fee-related updates	$181.50 (without essay) is ACT international testing fee $25 is an additional fee for those opting optional essay section    For Indian applicants, the overall fee is around ₹15,101 – ₹17,182 depending on the current exchange rates. Check ACT’s official website for fee-related updates

Ultimately, consider taking practice tests for both the SAT and ACT to see which one feels more comfortable for you.