Which is easier, the SAT or ACT?

Neither test is objectively easier — it depends on your strengths. The SAT gives you more time per question but requires deeper analysis. The ACT is faster-paced but has more straightforward questions. The best way to decide is to take a timed practice test of each and compare your percentile rankings.

Do colleges prefer the SAT or ACT?

No. All US colleges that accept standardized test scores accept both the SAT and ACT equally. There is no preference. Choose the test that plays to your strengths.

What are the main differences between the SAT and ACT?

The SAT is digital-only, adaptive, has 98 questions, and runs 2h 14m. The ACT is available in both digital and paper formats, is linear (not adaptive), has 215 questions (with Science), and runs 2h 55m (without Writing). The ACT includes a Science section; the SAT doesn't. The SAT gives more time per question.

How do SAT and ACT scores compare?

A 1400 on the SAT roughly corresponds to a 31 on the ACT. A 1200 SAT ≈ 25 ACT. A 1000 SAT ≈ 19 ACT. The College Board and ACT, Inc. publish an official concordance table that maps scores between the two tests.

Should I take both the SAT and ACT?

Most students only need to take one. Taking both can be useful if you're unsure which suits you better or if you want to maximize your score for superscoring. However, preparing for both tests simultaneously is time-consuming — focus on one and master it.

Is the ACT Science section required?

As of 2025-2026, the ACT Science section is optional. You can take the ACT with or without Science. Some colleges require the Science section for STEM applicants; others don't. Check each college's ACT policy before registering.

How much does the SAT cost vs the ACT?

The SAT costs $60 (2026). The ACT costs $68 without Writing, $93 with Writing. Fee waivers are available for both tests for eligible students. Additional fees apply for late registration, test center changes, and score reports to more than four colleges.

Can I convert my SAT score to an ACT score?

Yes. The College Board and ACT, Inc. publish an official concordance table. Use our ACT to SAT Score Converter to translate between the two scales. Note that concordance tables show equivalent performance levels, not exact conversions.

SAT vs ACT Which Test Is Right for You?

Both the SAT and ACT are accepted by every US college — but they're different tests. Here's a side-by-side comparison of format, timing, content, and scoring, plus a decision framework to help you choose the right test for you.

Last updated: August 20, 2026 · Written by the Student Toolbox team

SAT and ACT test prep books side by side

SAT vs ACT: side-by-side comparison

Feature	Digital SAT	ACT (Enhanced, 2025+)
Format	Digital (adaptive)	Digital or paper (linear)
Total time	2 hours 14 minutes	2 hours 55 minutes (without Writing)
Total questions	98	215 (with Science)
Sections	Reading & Writing (54 Q), Math (44 Q)	English (75 Q), Math (60 Q), Reading (40 Q), Science (40 Q, optional)
Time per question	~1.19 min (RW), ~1.59 min (Math)	~0.60 min (English), ~1.00 min (Math), ~0.88 min (Reading)
Scoring	400-1600 (200-800 per section)	1-36 composite (average of 4 sections)
Calculator	Built-in Desmos graphing calculator	Bring your own (approved models)
Science section	No separate science section	Optional Science section
Essay	No essay	Optional Writing section
Cost	$60	$68 (without Writing), $93 (with Writing)

SAT to ACT score concordance

Here's how SAT and ACT scores compare using the official concordance table:

SAT Score	ACT Score	Percentile
1600	36	99+%
1560-1590	35	99%
1520-1550	34	99%
1480-1510	33	98%
1420-1470	32	96%
1370-1410	31	94%
1330-1360	30	90%
1280-1320	29	87%
1230-1270	28	82%
1180-1220	27	77%
1130-1170	26	71%
1110-1120	25	66%
1060-1100	24	60%
1020-1050	23	53%
980-1010	22	46%
940-970	21	39%
900-930	20	32%
860-890	19	26%
810-850	18	20%
760-800	17	15%
710-750	16	10%
660-700	15	6%
590-650	14	3%
520-580	13	1%
400-510	12 and below	Below 1%

How to choose: the decision framework

Instead of asking "which is easier," ask which matches your style:

Take the SAT if you:

Prefer more time per question and deeper analysis
Are stronger in algebra than geometry (SAT Math is ~60% algebra)
Like having a built-in graphing calculator (Desmos)
Are comfortable with a fully digital, adaptive test format
Prefer two longer sections over four shorter ones

Take the ACT if you:

Work quickly under time pressure
Are strong in science and data interpretation
Prefer a linear test (same questions for everyone)
Want the option of a paper-based test
Are strong in grammar and punctuation (ACT English)

The best way to decide

Take one timed practice test of each. Compare your percentile rankings, not raw scores. The test where you score in a higher percentile — and feel more comfortable — is your test. Then focus your preparation on that one.

To estimate your SAT score, use ourSAT Score Calculator. To convert between SAT and ACT scores, use ourACT to SAT Score Converter.