SAT vs ACT: Which Should You Take?
The SAT and ACT are both accepted by virtually every US university, and no school prefers one over the other. The right choice comes down to test format and your personal strengths — pacing, whether you want to sit the ACT's optional Science section, and how you handle digital, adaptive testing.
Last reviewed: 25 September 2026
| SAT | ACT | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | US undergraduate admissions | US undergraduate admissions |
| Format | Digital, module-adaptive | Computer-based for international candidates (paper also offered in the US), linear |
| Sections | Reading and Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading (composite); Science and Writing optional |
| Length | ~2 hours 14 minutes | ~2 hours 5 minutes (English, Math, Reading); ~2 hours 45 minutes with optional Science |
| Scoring | 400–1600 | 1–36 composite |
| Science section | No (science context inside R&W/Math) | Optional since the enhanced ACT — sat separately, outside the composite |
| Calculator | Allowed on all Math | Allowed on all Math |
Which one should you choose?
Choose the SAT if you prefer a shorter, digital adaptive test with more time per question. Choose the ACT if you have strong data-interpretation skills and are comfortable with a faster pace — and note that its Science section is now optional, so you can add it when a programme asks for it and leave it out when none does. The most reliable way to decide is to sit one timed practice test of each and compare your percentile scores.
Choose based on your strengths
Take the SAT if you:
- Prefer more time per question and a shorter overall test
- Are comfortable with digital, module-adaptive testing
- Would rather not sit a separate, fast-paced Science section at all
- Score a higher percentile on a timed SAT practice test
Take the ACT if you:
- Have strong data-interpretation and science-reasoning skills
- Prefer a linear test where you set your own pace
- Want the option of a dedicated Science section to showcase your strengths
- Score a higher percentile on a timed ACT practice test
Frequently Asked Questions
Do US universities prefer the SAT or the ACT?▾
No. US universities accept both equally and state no preference. Submit whichever score better reflects your ability.
Is the SAT easier than the ACT?▾
Neither is objectively easier. The SAT gives more time per question and has no Science section; the ACT is faster-paced, and its Science section is now optional rather than part of the composite.
Can I take both and submit the higher score?▾
Yes. Many students take both once, then focus on the one with the higher percentile and submit only that score.