SAT versus ACT

	SAT	ACT	Additional Info
Length	3 hours. NO ESSAY	3 hours + 40 min. for optional essay
Structure	3 Sections: Reading: 65 min. – 52 questions Writing & Language: 35 min. – 44 questions Math: 2 Parts: -No calculator 25 min. – 20 questions -With calculator 55 min. – 38 questions	4 Sections: English: 45 min. – 75 questions Math: 60 min. – 60 questions Reading: 35 min. – 40 questions Science: 35 min. – 40 questions Optional Essay- 40 min.
Content	Emphasis on critical thinking, real-world problem solving and understanding context. *Common-core based	Requires knowledge of varied subjects. Questions are relatively straightforward. *Fast-paced
Math	Accounts for 50% of total score Pre-algrebra, algebra, geometry, basic trig. and advanced math topics No calculator on 1 of 2 Math sections 13 Grid-in questions (no answer choices) Formulas given	Accounts for 25% of the composite score Pre-algebra, algebra, coordinate and plane geometry, basic trigonometry Straightforward questions More emphasis on geometry than SAT Formulas not given
Reading	4 single passages and 1 paired passage 2 passages include diagrams and charts 1 passage from US “founding document” longer answer choices vocab questions embedded in the passage	4 long passages, one is usually a double passage straightforward questions requiring close reading of passages less time per question shorter answer choices vocabulary in context
English/Writing	Revise/edit passages for: grammar/usage punctuation sentence structure includes informational graphics	Revise/edit passages for: grammar/usage punctuation sentence structure commonly confused words	English sections are very similar on both tests
Science	No Science section on SAT but science-related questions are in Reading and Math sections	40 reasoning questions within 6-7 passages, charts, tables and diagrams to read and interpret
Essay	None	Optional final section 40 min. Scored separately
Penalties	No penalty for wrong answers	No penalty for wrong answers	Answer every question! GUESS!
Scoring	Scale score (400-1600) (Reading/Writing + Math)	Composite score is the average of the four tests
Total Points	200-800 points per section. Highest score = 1600	1-36 points per section. Highest score = 36
National Avg.	Approximately 1050 as per CollegeBoard 2021	21
When to Register	6-8 weeks prior to test date	6-8 weeks prior to test date	Register early to avoid late fees and secure your desired test center!
More info? Texts we use:	www.collegeboard.org College Board’s The Official SAT Study Guide	www.act.org Wiley’s The Official ACT Prep Guide