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SAT vs. ACT Comparison Chart

The SAT and ACT are two very different college entrance exams. Both are nationally administered and are used to help colleges evaluate applicants. The SAT is essentially a three-part aptitude test (Reading, Math, Writing) while the ACT is more of an achievement test with four core sections (English, Math, Reading, Science) and an optional Writing section. Many colleges will accept either test or both exams. Some colleges require one (typically the SAT).    The chart below will help you understand the structure and content of the SAT and ACT.

 
 
 
SAT
ACT
Length                        

3 hours, 45 minutes

3 hours, 25 minutes (includes optional 30-minute Writing Test)
Sections         

10 Sections: 3 Critical Reading, 3 Math, 3 Writing (including Essay), 1 Experimental (not scored)

4 Sections (plus optional Writing Test): English, Math, Reading, Science, Writing

Subjects         
Critical Reading
Math
Writing
English
Math
Reading
Science

Writing (optional)
Reading

Reading passages with questions pertaining to comprehension and sentence completion

4 passages, 10 questions per passage
Science          
N/A

Science (analysis, knowledge, problem solving)           

Math

Arithmetic, geometry, algebra, and algebra II

Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry
Essay
Required

Optional (final section)

 

Score Composition
1/3 Math
1/3 Reading
1/3 Writing
¼ English
¼ Math
¼ Reading
¼ Science
Scoring

Aggregate score 600 - 2400 based on total of 3 scores 200- 800 (Reading, Math, Writing)

Score of 0-12 for Essay

Composite score 1-36 based on average of 4 sections (English Math, Reading Science)

Score 0-12 for Optional Essay.
Penalties

Penalties (typically ¼ point deducted) for wrong answers

No penalties for incorrect answers

Sending Scores to Colleges

Currently entire score history is sent. Starting with the March 2009 test date, students can select (“opt-in feature”) which will allow them to choose specific test date(s) – 3/09 and forward - and all scores from the selected test date(s) will be sent. 

Student decides which scores are sent

Additional Information

 
 
 
 
 

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