SAT vs ACT? Which one should you write?

posted at April 22, 2022, 10 a.m.

Being a student in today's world is not easy. Especially with the pandemic and political situation that has affected the world. Not only are students burdened with what colleges/universities to apply to but also what would be the best course for them. However, what helps is knowing what tests to take to get into your dream university. A common debate that has plagued students for a while is deciding between SAT vs ACT as a better option. To be able to answer this question, we must understand what these tests are.

ACT and SAT are the two most commonly taken tests by undergraduate applicants to study abroad fundamentally in the US. While both these tests generally cover the same topics, there is a marked difference in what they ask you on the test.

SAT tests you on Reading, Writing, Language and Mathematics and is a three-hour-long examination. There is also an optional essay that students can attempt. It is scored on a scale of 400-1600. The Mathematics syllabus includes Algebra I and II, Geometry and Trigonometry, and Arithmetic/Probability/Data Analysis. There are five reading passages for students to complete. The Writing/Language section of the exam tests you on your Grammar/Punctuation, Vocabulary, and Editing skills. There is no science section in the SATs as it focuses more on the maths area. The optional essay section will test a student's comprehension abilities of a given text. It is held five times a year internationally.

ACT tests you on English, Reading, Mathematics, Science, and an optional Essay. It is a 2hrs 55mins long test and is scored on a scale of 1-36. The Mathematics syllabus includes Algebra I and II, Geometry and Trigonometry, and Arithmetic/Probability. There are four reading passages for students to complete. The Science section does not test knowledge on any particular science subject. It will test your science-based reasoning and critical thinking abilities. The English section of the exam tests you on your Rhetorical skills, Grammar/Punctuation, and Sentence Structure. The optional essay section will test a student's analytical and evaluation skills. It is held six times a year globally.

In conclusion, for someone who loves Science but is not comfortable with Mathematics, the ACT may be the right choice. For a student who is not comfortable with extremely rigorous or fast-paced exams, the SAT may be the perfect option.