Mental Floss

ACT vs. SAT: What’s the Difference?

Explore the distinctions between the SAT and ACT, from scoring methods to question types.
ByCaLea Johnson|
The SAT and ACT are both standardized tests, but what‘s the difference between the two?
The SAT and ACT are both standardized tests, but what‘s the difference between the two? | Tim Macpherson/GettyImages

The SAT and ACT are standardized tests that can help students get into colleges and earn scholarships. Although they have similar content, they’re ultimately different in other aspects. Most colleges will accept either, so what’s the difference between them? According to KD College Prep, the tests vary in some key ways, from their format to the lengths of each section.

  1. Scoring
  2. Test Sections
  3. Formatting and Duration
  4. SAT vs. ACT: Which Is Easier to Take?

Scoring

One of the most prominent differences between the ACT and SAT is their scoring scales. The final score of the latter ranges from 400–1600 points; the overall score is determined after combining the two section scores, which range from 200–800. The lowest final score of an ACT is 1 point, while the highest is 36. To calculate the overall score, ACT, Inc. averages the scores of the exam’s four sections, which also range from 1–36.

Test Sections

The ACT is more diverse when it comes to subject matter. The test includes mandatory English, math, and reading sections but also has optional science and writing sections. Test takers aren’t expected to be science experts to score well in the section. Scott Simons, the Vice President, Math & Science at KD Innovation, told KD College Prep that “little prior science knowledge {is} required.” The section is more about interpreting information and making accurate conclusions based on given data. Some test takers may want to skip the optional essay section, as there’s been a significant decrease in the number of colleges that review this section. 

The SAT only has two sections: reading and writing and math. Those taking the SAT in 2025 just missed the “no calculator” math section, which was terminated in early 2024. Some testers have complained about the more complicated wording of SAT questions compared to those on the ACT.

Formatting and Duration

As far as formatting, the SAT has been available in digital form since spring 2024. Testers can take the ACT online starting in April 2025 but still have the option to complete the test in person if they prefer.

The SAT is a little longer than the ACT, with the former lasting up to 134 minutes and the latter for 125. However, there are 98 questions on the SAT and 135 on the ACT, meaning ACT takers might have to work at a faster pace. 

The SAT reading and writing section gives students about a minute and 11 seconds per question, while the math section needs about one minute per question. The English part of the ACT typically takes approximately 42, and the math section is about 1 minute and 7 seconds. The test allows about 1 minute per question in the reading section.  

SAT vs. ACT: Which Is Easier to Take?

This isn’t a straightforward question. Everyone has certain strengths and weaknesses, so test difficulty varies from person to person. If you’re picking between the two standardized tests, consider a few things, such as how long you take to answer questions. If you realize you may need a bit more time per question, then the ACT may not be ideal—you may end up cramming since you’ll have less time to complete each section. But if you excel at science, the ACT might be up your alley since it has a dedicated section.

People should consider taking a full-length practice exam of the ACT (Pre-ACT) and SAT (PSAT) before choosing one or the other, as doing so will help test takers better understand which is best for them.

Read More About Education:

Home/EDUCATION