We break down the major differences between the ACT and the SAT to help you compare and find the best test for you.

ACT vs SAT: Scoring

In both tests, there is no penalty for wrong answers. The ACT is based more of an average score, whereas the SAT is an aggregate score of different test scores.

ACT vs SAT: Subject Matter

There are a couple of major differences between the SAT and ACT subject matter:

Science:
The ACT has an extra section for science, which is not included in the SAT.

Math:
It’s important to note that the SAT has two math sections: one where you can use a calculator, and one where you cannot. You are allowed to use your calculator throughout the ACT, but you will not be given formulas to work with, whereas forumals will be provided for the SAT math section.

Reading:
The ACT reading section is relatively easy to understand, measured at a 9th-grade reading level throughout the entire section. The SAT reading section will vary in difficulty throughout the exam, so some passages will be more complex than others to read.

ACT vs SAT: Section Length & Timing

As you can see from the chart above, the timing per question is much shorter for the ACT, so you finishing will be more of a time crunch. The SAT is slightly more generous with timing per question.

Sources:

Kaplan, Magoosh, PrepScholar