SAT vs ACT Test: Know the Key Differences and Which is Easier

When preparing to study abroad, several students face a common confusion about whether to appear for the SAT or ACT exam. One of the most crucial admissions requirements to study abroad is the SAT or ACT scores. Both of these standardized tests evaluate the candidate’s abilities and skills required to study in USA. These exams assess the high school knowledge of the candidate to assess their preparation for further studies. However, there are major differences between the SAT and ACT exams. According to a report by the US News, the SAT exam was taken by approximately 1.97 million test takers in 2024 whereas 1.37 million test takers took the ACT in 2024. This data elaborates on how popular both the SAT and ACT exams are. When it comes to standardized tests, the SAT emphasizes vocabulary and abstract reasoning, while the ACT emphasizes grammar and punctuation. Both tests cover similar math topics, but the SAT involves more advanced areas like trigonometry and higher-level algebra. Ultimately, deciding between the SAT and ACT depends on what you prefer and what the colleges or universities you are aiming for require. Read along to understand the difference between the SAT vs ACT.

This Story also Contains

1. SAT vs ACT Highlights
2. Difference Between ACT and SAT Exam Patterns
3. SAT vs ACT Fees
4. SAT vs ACT: Score Comparison
5. SAT to ACT Conversion Chart 2025
6. Which is Easier SAT or ACT?

SAT vs ACT Highlights

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Difference Between ACT and SAT Exam Patterns

Even though both the standardized exams assess the preparation of the candidate for higher education in USA, the exam pattern differs for both the SAT and ACT exams. SAT vs ACT based on their exam pattern is mentioned below.

SAT Exam Pattern

The SAT test pattern is a fully digital setup that includes 98 questions assessing Reading & Writing and Math sections. The duration for the SAT exam is 2 hours and 14 minutes. The exam assesses the following topics.

SAT Syllabus

ACT Exam Pattern

The ACT test pattern is a pen and paper setup that includes 215 questions assessing English, Reading, Science and Math sections. There is an optional Essay question as well. The duration for the ACT exam is 2 hours and 55 minutes.

ACT Syllabus

SAT vs ACT Fees

While comparing the two exams, a popular distinction is the fees. The registration fees for both the SAT and ACT differ.

SAT Exam Fees

The SAT exam fees for Indian students are as follows:

ACT Exam Fees

The ACT exam fees for Indian students are as follows:

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SAT vs ACT: Score Comparison

The ACT and SAT are both standardized tests used for college admissions, but they have different scoring systems. Understanding these differences can help students decide between ACT vs SAT and which test suits them best.

SAT to ACT Conversion Chart 2025

The SAT score and ACT score ranges vary. Therefore, the following conversion chart elaborates on the SAT and ACT score equivalents.

Which is Easier SAT or ACT?

Both the ACT and SAT are popular exams when preparing to study abroad. To decide which is easier between the SAT and ACT depends on your personal strengths and preferences. The average difficulty of the questions on both tests is quite similar. The following points will help you make a better decision between ACt test vs SAT test.

• Format: You can take the ACT in both paper and computer formats, while the SAT is exclusively online.

• Test Emphasis: The SAT focuses on analysis and deep interpretation in reading and writing, along with complex math, while the ACT covers a broader range of subjects in reading, math, and science, requiring a more straightforward approach to answering questions.

• Digital Format: The new Digital SAT gives you 43% more time per question compared to the old SAT and 68% more than the ACT, which can help ease the pressure of time constraints.

• Superscoring: The ACT allows for superscoring, which means you can combine your highest scores from different attempts. This can help increase low sectional scores without needing to retake the whole test.

• Science Section: The ACT includes a science section, which is great for STEM students however SAT does not offer the same.

• Writing Section: The ACT has an optional writing section, giving students a chance to highlight their writing abilities, which can set them apart in college applications.

Try taking practice tests for both the SAT and ACT to see which one is better based on your strengths and preferences. This will help you understand the format and style of both SAT and ACT exams better.

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