SAT vs ACT

What is the difference between the SAT and the ACT?

There are a few key differences between the SAT and the ACT Links to an external site..  ACT scores range between 1-36, and SAT scores range between 800-1600. The ACT allows a calculator to be used for all math sections; the SAT only permits a calculator on some sections (though, both tests focus on arithmetic, Algebra I&II, Geometry, and Trigonometry).  ACT does have a science focus, unlike the SAT. **Both the ACT & SAT are accepted by almost all colleges/universities in the U.S.

See the chart below to look at the side-by-side similarities and differences of the ACT and SAT.

So, which test should I take?

While roughly 70% of students score about the same on each test, you may have a standardized test preference. The only way to find out which one you have is to take a sample of each test.

There are a lot of free sites that allow you to take, and score, sample SAT and ACT tests.
Check out some below!

• https://collegereadiness.collegeboard.org/sat/practice/full-length-practice-tests Links to an external site.
• http://www.act.org/content/dam/act/unsecured/documents/Preparing-for-the-ACT.pdf Links to an external site.
• https://www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/sat/full-length-sat-1 Links to an external site.
• https://www.princetonreview.com/promo Links to an external site.
• https://www.powerscore.com/sat/help/content_practice_tests.cfm Links to an external site.
• https://uniontestprep.com/sat-exam Links to an external site.
• http://www.mhpracticeplus.com/act.php Links to an external site.
• https://www.powerscore.com/sat/help/ Links to an external site.