SAT vs. ACT: Which Test Should You Take?

Every college that accepts the SAT also accepts the ACT. So which test should you take?

The answer isn't about which test is "better" — it's about which test better matches how your brain works. For some students, the SAT is significantly easier. For others, the ACT is. Taking both (at least once) to compare is often the smartest approach.

Key Differences Between SAT and ACT

SAT Tends to Suit Students Who:

• Have strong reading comprehension and vocabulary in context
• Prefer fewer, longer passages
• Are stronger in algebra and data analysis than trigonometry
• Work more carefully but slowly
• Prefer the digital/adaptive format

ACT Tends to Suit Students Who:

• Are strong in science reasoning and data interpretation
• Can work quickly under time pressure
• Have strong knowledge of trigonometry and geometry
• Prefer straightforward questions over nuanced reading analysis
• Are stronger across four subjects than two

Converting Scores Between Tests

The College Board and ACT publish concordance tables for comparing scores:

The Practical Decision

Take a free practice test for each — the official digital SAT practice at Khan Academy and a free ACT practice test at act.org. Compare your results using the concordance table.

Whichever test gives you a higher equivalent score is your better test. Prep and take that one seriously.

If scores are similar, consider which test felt more comfortable and which has more convenient test dates in your area.

Calculate your SAT score with our SAT Score Calculator.