{"id":8221,"date":"2025-08-06T09:28:02","date_gmt":"2025-08-06T14:28:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mcclatchymhstg.wpenginepowered.com\/careers-education\/?p=8221"},"modified":"2026-03-16T18:04:06","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T23:04:06","slug":"act-vs-sat","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/","title":{"rendered":"ACT vs SAT: Key Differences You Should Know"},"content":{"rendered":" <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trying to decide between the ACT and SAT? You\u2019re in the right place.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both tests have been used for over <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pbs.org\/wgbh\/pages\/frontline\/shows\/sats\/where\/timeline.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">65 years<\/a> and remain widely accepted in college admissions. They serve the same purpose, but their formats, scoring, and sections feel different in practice. Some students do better with the ACT\u2019s fast pace. Others prefer the SAT\u2019s digital setup and adaptive format.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, I\u2019ll break down the core differences so you can choose the test that matches your strengths, schedule, and goals.<\/p> <p class=\"custom_key wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key Takeaways<\/strong><\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list custom_underline\"> <li><strong>SAT is fully digital<\/strong>: All students <a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/when-to-take-the-sat\/\">take the SAT online<\/a> using adaptive modules.<\/li> <li><strong>ACT offers both paper and online formats<\/strong>: You can choose based on availability and location.<\/li> <li><strong>ACT includes a science section and writing<\/strong>: Both are optional, but may be recommended for certain programs.<\/li> <li><strong>SAT has no essay or science section<\/strong>: The optional essay and subject tests were retired.<\/li> <li><strong>Most colleges accept both tests<\/strong>: Your scores can support admissions and qualify you for scholarships.<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-understanding-the-basics\"><strong>Understanding the Basics<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The SAT and ACT are standardized tests used in U.S. college admissions to assess a student\u2019s readiness for higher education. While neither test is officially preferred by colleges, each one has a distinct structure. The SAT is now entirely digital, made up of two main sections\u2014Reading &amp; Writing and Math, and adapts in difficulty as you progress. <\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ACT is a more traditional exam with up to four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, plus an optional writing test. It\u2019s available in both paper and online formats. Both tests aim to measure similar academic skills but do so with different pacing, question types, and formats\u2014making it important to choose the one that plays to your strengths.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\" id=\"h-sat-vs-act-comparison\"><strong>SAT vs ACT Comparison<\/strong><\/h2> <style type=\"text\/css\" id=\"supsystic-table-149_73461-css\">\/* Here you can add custom CSS for the current table *\/ \/* Lean more about CSS: https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cascading_Style_Sheets *\/ \/* To prevent the use of styles to other tables use \"#supsystic-table-149\" as a base selector for example: #supsystic-table-149 { ... } #supsystic-table-149 tbody { ... } #supsystic-table-149 tbody tr { ... } *\/ span.discount { margin-top: 6px; display: inline-block; float: left; font-weight: 400; width: 100%; font-size: 12px; } .supsystic-tables-wrap thead th { font-size: 16px; } .supsystic-table tr:nth-child(1) th a:nth-child(3) { background: #1873cd; border: 1px solid #1873cd; 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} .supsystic-table tbody tr:last-child td { border-bottom: 1px solid #dddddd; } .supsystic-table thead th { border-bottom: unset !important; border-left: unset !important; } .supsystic-table thead tr:first-child th:first-child { border-radius: 12px 0 00; border-left: 1px solid #dddddd !important; } .supsystic-table thead tr th { border: 1px solid #dddddd; } .supsystic-table thead tr:first-child th:last-child { border-radius: 0 12px 0 0; } .supsystic-table thead tr:last-child th:first-child { border-left: 1px solid #dddddd !important; } .supsystic-table tbody tr:last-child td:first-child { border-radius: 0 0 0 12px; } .supsystic-table tbody tr:last-child td:last-child { border-radius: 0 0 12px 0; } @media screen and (max-width: 767px) { .supsystic-table tbody tr:last-child td a { padding: 8px !important; font-size: 11px !important; } } <\/style> <div id=\"supsystic-table-149_73461\" class=\"supsystic-tables-wrap \" style=\" width:100%; visibility: hidden; \" data-table-width-fixed=\"100%\" data-table-width-mobile=\"100%\" ><table id=\"supsystic-table-149\" class=\"supsystic-table border lightboxImg cell-border\" data-id=\"149\" data-view-id=\"149_73461\" data-title=\"SAT vs. ACT Comparison Table\" data-currency-format=\"$1,000.00\" data-percent-format=\"10.00%\" data-date-format=\"DD.MM.YYYY\" data-time-format=\"HH:mm\" data-features=\"[&quot;after_table_loaded_script&quot;]\" data-search-value=\"\" data-lightbox-img=\"\" data-head=\"on\" data-head-rows-count=\"1\" data-pagination-length=\"50,100,All\" data-auto-index=\"off\" data-searching-settings=\"{&quot;columnSearchPosition&quot;:&quot;bottom&quot;,&quot;minChars&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-lang=\"default\" data-override=\"{&quot;emptyTable&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;info&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;infoEmpty&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;infoFiltered&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;lengthMenu&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;search&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;previous&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;next&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;zeroRecords&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;exportLabel&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;file&quot;:&quot;default&quot;}\" data-merged=\"[]\" data-responsive-mode=\"2\" data-from-history=\"0\" ><thead><tr><th data-cell-id=\"A1\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"1\" data-db-index=\"1\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Feature\" data-order=\"Feature\" style=\"min-width:33.3333%; width:33.3333%;\" >Feature <\/th><th data-cell-id=\"B1\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"1\" data-db-index=\"1\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"SAT\" data-order=\"SAT\" style=\"min-width:33.3333%; width:33.3333%;\" >SAT <\/th><th data-cell-id=\"C1\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"1\" data-db-index=\"1\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"ACT\" data-order=\"ACT\" style=\"min-width:33.3333%; width:33.3333%;\" >ACT <\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A2\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"2\" data-db-index=\"2\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Purpose\" data-order=\"Purpose\" >Purpose <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B2\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"2\" data-db-index=\"2\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"College admissions and scholarship eligibility\" data-order=\"College admissions and scholarship eligibility\" >College admissions and scholarship eligibility <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C2\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"2\" data-db-index=\"2\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"College admissions and scholarship eligibility\" data-order=\"College admissions and scholarship eligibility\" >College admissions and scholarship eligibility <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A3\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"3\" data-db-index=\"3\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Format\" data-order=\"Format\" >Format <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B3\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"3\" data-db-index=\"3\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Fully digital (Bluebook app)\" data-order=\"Fully digital (Bluebook app)\" >Fully digital (Bluebook app) <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C3\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"3\" data-db-index=\"3\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Paper or online (varies by location)\" data-order=\"Paper or online (varies by location)\" >Paper or online (varies by location) <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A4\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"4\" data-db-index=\"4\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Structure\" data-order=\"Structure\" >Structure <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B4\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"4\" data-db-index=\"4\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"2 Sections: Reading &amp; Writing, Math\" data-order=\"2 Sections: Reading &amp; Writing, Math\" >2 Sections: Reading & Writing, Math <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C4\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"4\" data-db-index=\"4\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Up to 4 Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science (+ optional Writing)\" data-order=\"Up to 4 Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science (+ optional Writing)\" >Up to 4 Sections: English, Math, Reading, Science (+ optional Writing) <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A5\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"5\" data-db-index=\"5\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Adaptivity\" data-order=\"Adaptivity\" >Adaptivity <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B5\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"5\" data-db-index=\"5\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Yes \u2013 adaptive format that adjusts difficulty\" data-order=\"Yes \u2013 adaptive format that adjusts difficulty\" >Yes \u2013 adaptive format that adjusts difficulty <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C5\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"5\" data-db-index=\"5\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"No \u2013 fixed question sets\" data-order=\"No \u2013 fixed question sets\" >No \u2013 fixed question sets <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A6\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"6\" data-db-index=\"6\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Essay\" data-order=\"Essay\" >Essay <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B6\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"6\" data-db-index=\"6\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"No (retired)\" data-order=\"No (retired)\" >No (retired) <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C6\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"6\" data-db-index=\"6\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Optional (some programs still require it)\" data-order=\"Optional (some programs still require it)\" >Optional (some programs still require it) <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A7\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"7\" data-db-index=\"7\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Science Section\" data-order=\"Science Section\" >Science Section <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B7\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"7\" data-db-index=\"7\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"No separate section (integrated into questions)\" data-order=\"No separate section (integrated into questions)\" >No separate section (integrated into questions) <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C7\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"7\" data-db-index=\"7\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Yes \u2013 optional starting April 2025\" data-order=\"Yes \u2013 optional starting April 2025\" >Yes \u2013 optional starting April 2025 <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A8\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"8\" data-db-index=\"8\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Scoring\" data-order=\"Scoring\" >Scoring <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B8\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"8\" data-db-index=\"8\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"400\u20131600 (each section scored out of 800)\" data-order=\"400\u20131600 (each section scored out of 800)\" >400\u20131600 (each section scored out of 800) <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C8\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"8\" data-db-index=\"8\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"1\u201336 per section; composite score is the average\" data-order=\"1\u201336 per section; composite score is the average\" >1\u201336 per section; composite score is the average <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A9\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"9\" data-db-index=\"9\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Writing Score\" data-order=\"Writing Score\" >Writing Score <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B9\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"9\" data-db-index=\"9\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Not included\" data-order=\"Not included\" >Not included <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C9\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"9\" data-db-index=\"9\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Optional essay scored 2\u201312 (separate from composite)\" data-order=\"Optional essay scored 2\u201312 (separate from composite)\" >Optional essay scored 2\u201312 (separate from composite) <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A10\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"10\" data-db-index=\"10\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Math Topics\" data-order=\"Math Topics\" >Math Topics <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B10\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"10\" data-db-index=\"10\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Algebra, data analysis, word problems (minimal geometry\/trig)\" data-order=\"Algebra, data analysis, word problems (minimal geometry\/trig)\" >Algebra, data analysis, word problems (minimal geometry\/trig) <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C10\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"10\" data-db-index=\"10\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Algebra, functions, geometry, trigonometry\" data-order=\"Algebra, functions, geometry, trigonometry\" >Algebra, functions, geometry, trigonometry <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A11\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"11\" data-db-index=\"11\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Reading Style\" data-order=\"Reading Style\" >Reading Style <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B11\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"11\" data-db-index=\"11\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Short passages, evidence-based questions, more time per question\" data-order=\"Short passages, evidence-based questions, more time per question\" >Short passages, evidence-based questions, more time per question <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C11\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"11\" data-db-index=\"11\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Long passages, literal questions, faster-paced\" data-order=\"Long passages, literal questions, faster-paced\" >Long passages, literal questions, faster-paced <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A12\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"12\" data-db-index=\"12\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Test Length\" data-order=\"Test Length\" >Test Length <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B12\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"12\" data-db-index=\"12\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"2 hours, 14 minutes\" data-order=\"2 hours, 14 minutes\" >2 hours, 14 minutes <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C12\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"12\" data-db-index=\"12\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"2 hours, 55 minutes (no essay); Over 3.5 hours with essay\" data-order=\"2 hours, 55 minutes (no essay); Over 3.5 hours with essay\" >2 hours, 55 minutes (no essay); Over 3.5 hours with essay <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:22px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A13\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"13\" data-db-index=\"13\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Score Use\" data-order=\"Score Use\" >Score Use <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B13\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"13\" data-db-index=\"13\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Accepted by most colleges; used for admissions and scholarships\" data-order=\"Accepted by most colleges; used for admissions and scholarships\" >Accepted by most colleges; used for admissions and scholarships <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C13\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"13\" data-db-index=\"13\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Accepted by most colleges; used for admissions and scholarships\" data-order=\"Accepted by most colleges; used for admissions and scholarships\" >Accepted by most colleges; used for admissions and scholarships <\/td><\/tr><tr style=\"height:px\" ><td data-cell-id=\"A14\" data-x=\"0\" data-y=\"14\" data-db-index=\"14\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Best Fit For Students Who\u2026\" data-order=\"Best Fit For Students Who\u2026\" >Best Fit For Students Who\u2026 <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"B14\" data-x=\"1\" data-y=\"14\" data-db-index=\"14\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Prefer digital format and adaptive testingWant more time per questionExcel in problem-solving\" data-order=\"Prefer digital format and adaptive testingWant more time per questionExcel in problem-solving\" >Prefer digital format and adaptive testingWant more time per questionExcel in problem-solving <\/td><td data-cell-id=\"C14\" data-x=\"2\" data-y=\"14\" data-db-index=\"14\" class=\"\" data-cell-type=\"text\" data-original-value=\"Prefer traditional format or paper testAre strong in science or fast readingNeed essay score for certain programs\" data-order=\"Prefer traditional format or paper testAre strong in science or fast readingNeed essay score for certain programs\" >Prefer traditional format or paper testAre strong in science or fast readingNeed essay score for certain programs <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><!-- \/#supsystic-table-149.supsystic-table --><\/div><!-- \/.supsystic-tables-wrap --><!-- Tables Generator by Supsystic --><!-- Version:1.11.1 --><!-- http:\/\/supsystic.com\/ --><a title=\"WordPress Data Table Plugin\" style=\"display:none;\" href=\"https:\/\/supsystic.com\/plugins\/wordpress-data-table-plugin\/?utm_medium=love_link\" target=\"_blank\">WordPress Data Table Plugin<\/a> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-act-and-sat-updates-and-format-changes\"><strong>ACT and SAT Updates and Format Changes<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Starting in April 2025, ACT test-takers can skip the science section. If skipped, the composite score will be based only on English, Math, and Reading. The optional ACT writing test is still available and scored separately.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The SAT became fully digital in 2024. All students take it on a laptop or tablet using the Bluebook app.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Key SAT Updates<\/strong>:<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Two main sections: Reading &amp; Writing and Math<\/li> <li>Adaptive format that adjusts question difficulty<\/li> <li>No subject tests or optional essay<\/li> <li>Faster score reporting<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-scoring-comparison-sat-vs-act\"><strong>Scoring Comparison: SAT vs ACT<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both the paper and online formats will reflect these changes:<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/what-is-a-good-sat-score\/\">SAT Scores<\/a>: <\/strong>You\u2019ll receive a total score between 400 and 1600, with each section (Reading &amp; Writing and Math) scored out of 800.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ACT Scores: <\/strong>Your composite score is the average of up to four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Each is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-score-range\/\">scored from 1 to 36<\/a>. <\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ACT optional writing section is scored from 2 to 12 and doesn\u2019t affect your composite score. Some honors programs and scholarships may still require it.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-section-comparison\"><strong>Section Comparison<\/strong><\/h2> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-reading-and-writing\"><strong>Reading and Writing<\/strong><\/h3> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>SAT<\/strong>: One combined section with short reading passages. Covers grammar, sentence structure, vocabulary, and evidence-based reading. Allows more time per question.<\/li> <li><strong>ACT<\/strong>: English and Reading are separate. English tests students&#8217; grammar; Reading uses long passages with literal multiple-choice questions. The section is fast-paced. <\/li> <\/ul> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-math\"><strong>Math<\/strong><\/h3> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>SAT<\/strong>: Two adaptive modules. Focuses on algebra, data analysis, and word problems, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/how-many-questions-are-on-the-sat\/\">with fewer questions<\/a> on geometry and trigonometry.<\/li> <li><strong>ACT<\/strong>: 60 questions in 60 minutes. Covers algebra, functions, geometry, and trigonometry.<\/li> <\/ul> <h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-science\"><strong>Science<\/strong><\/h3> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>SAT<\/strong>: No separate science section. Science questions appear in reading and math as data tables, charts, and analysis.<\/li> <li><strong>ACT<\/strong>: includes a science test that challenges students to apply critical thinking skills to data, visuals, and experimental scenarios. These science questions reward logic and reasoning.<\/li> <\/ul> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-timing-and-test-length\"><strong>Timing and Test Length<\/strong><\/h2> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li><strong>SAT<\/strong>: 2 hours and 14 minutes<\/li> <li><strong>ACT (no writing)<\/strong>: 2 hours and 55 minutes<\/li> <li><strong>ACT (with writing and science)<\/strong>: Can exceed 3 hours and 30 minutes<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you struggle with test fatigue, the SAT\u2019s shorter length may feel more manageable. The ACT requires pacing across more test sections in less time.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>\ud83d\udca1Pro Tip<\/em><\/strong>: Always guess if you\u2019re unsure. There\u2019s no penalty for incorrect answers on either test, so every question is a chance to earn points.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-sat-or-act-which-one-is-best-for-you\"><strong>SAT or ACT: Which One Is Best for You?<\/strong><\/h2> <figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\"> <iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"SAT vs ACT: Which Test to Take in 2026?\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Wr6aoVrF03s?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe> <\/div><\/figure> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Choose the SAT if you:<\/strong><\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Prefer a digital-only format<\/li> <li>Perform better with adaptive tests<\/li> <li>Want more time per question<\/li> <li>Excel in data analysis and problem-solving<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Choose the ACT if you:<\/strong><\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Want a paper option<\/li> <li>Are strong in geometry or science interpretation<\/li> <li>Are comfortable reading long passages quickly<\/li> <li>Need or want to submit a writing score<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>\ud83d\udca1Pro Tip<\/em><\/strong><em>: <\/em>Take a full-length practice test for both the SAT and ACT to find your best fit<\/p> <figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"617\" height=\"930\" src=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/SAT-and-ACT-info.jpg\" alt=\"SAT vs ACT\" class=\"wp-image-8223\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/SAT-and-ACT-info.jpg 617w, https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/SAT-and-ACT-info-199x300.jpg 199w, https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/SAT-and-ACT-info-100x150.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 617px) 100vw, 617px\" \/><\/figure> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-colleges-use-test-scores\"><strong>How Colleges Use Test Scores<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most colleges accept both the SAT and ACT. Even test-optional schools may use scores to support admissions or scholarships.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Test scores can:<\/p> <ul class=\"wp-block-list\"> <li>Demonstrate college readiness<\/li> <li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/how-to-write-a-college-application-essay\/\">Strengthen college applications<\/a> to selective programs<\/li> <li>Qualify you for merit-based scholarships<\/li> <li>Meet honors program requirements<\/li> <\/ul> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many schools superscore, combining your highest section scores across multiple test dates to create your best final score.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Both the SAT and ACT are accepted by most colleges. They share the same goal: measuring academic skills and college readiness, but each test is better suited to different types of students. The SAT is digital, adaptive, and structured. The ACT is faster, broader, and includes a science section.<\/p> <p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As an exam course reviewer, I recommend choosing the test that aligns with your pacing, math confidence, and reading strategy. With consistent prep from a top provider like UWorld <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"UWorld ACT\" href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/recommends\/uworld\/uworld-act\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">ACT<\/a> and <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"UWorld SAT\" href=\"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/recommends\/uworld\/uworld-sat\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">SAT<\/a> and a smart retake plan, either test can deliver strong results.<\/p> <h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-faqs\"><strong>FAQs<\/strong><\/h2> <div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754469887339\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can I take both the SAT and ACT?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Many students try both to see which test fits them better.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754469893468\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Do colleges accept both tests?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Most colleges accept either SAT or ACT scores.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754469899789\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Is the ACT science section required?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">No. As of 2025, it\u2019s optional for online ACT takers.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754469906071\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>What is the ACT composite score?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">It\u2019s the average of your English, Math, Reading, and Science scores (if taken).<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1754469914918\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Can I use a calculator on the test?<\/strong><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Yes. Both tests allow calculators, and the SAT now permits one for all math questions.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div> ","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Trying to decide between the ACT and SAT? You\u2019re in the right place. Both tests have been used for over 65 years and remain widely accepted in college admissions. They serve the same purpose, but their formats, scoring, and sections feel different in practice. Some students do better with the ACT\u2019s fast pace. Others prefer [&hellip;]<\/p> ","protected":false},"author":11,"featured_media":8222,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,242],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8221","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-careers-education","category-college"],"acf":{"external_author":[129],"external_editor":"","select_template":"default","not_show_feature_image":false,"hide_toc":false},"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2025\/08\/ACT-and-SAT-feature-img-768x427.png","author_info":{"display_name":"","author_link":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/author\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.5 (Yoast SEO v27.5) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>ACT vs SAT: Key Differences You Should Know<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Wondering about the difference between the ACT and SAT? 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Many students try both to see which test fits them better.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469893468","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469893468","name":"Do colleges accept both tests?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Most colleges accept either SAT or ACT scores.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469899789","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469899789","name":"Is the ACT science section required?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"No. As of 2025, it\u2019s optional for online ACT takers.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469906071","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469906071","name":"What is the ACT composite score?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"It\u2019s the average of your English, Math, Reading, and Science scores (if taken).","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469914918","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/act-vs-sat\/#faq-question-1754469914918","name":"Can I use a calculator on the test?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes. Both tests allow calculators, and the SAT now permits one for all math questions.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"first_category":{"name":"College","url":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/college\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8221"}],"collection":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/11"}],"replies":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8221"}],"version-history":[{"attributes":{"count":0},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8221\/revisions"}],"acf:post":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/external-author\/129"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"attributes":{"embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8222"}],"wp:attachment":[{"attributes":[],"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8221"}],"wp:term":[{"attributes":{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8221"},{"attributes":{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true},"href":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8221"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}