Should you take the ACT or Digital SAT?
Though many schools adopted flexible standardized test requirements at the start of the pandemic, many competitive institutions are now reinstating their standardized testing requirements. Schools like Dartmouth, Georgetown and MIT now require students to submit test scores as a part of their college applications, while other schools, such as the UC schools, are test-blind and will not consider test scores even if submitted. Since the majority of colleges that consider standardized test scores will accept both the ACT and the SAT and have no preference for either test, we recommend that students choose to focus on one exam. Multiple factors can be used in determining whether a student should take the ACT or the SAT.
KEY TIP
Knowing where your strengths lie is the most important factor to take into account when making this decision.
Have you taken ACT or SAT practice exams?
Yes
Use an SAT/ACT score conversion chart to compare the two scores. When deciding between the two exams, students should consider choosing the exam on which they initially scored higher.
No
Visit College Board or ACT.org to find free practice exams.
Do you feel confident in reading and interpreting graphs and tables?
Yes (Now)
The ACT includes a science analysis section that tests students’ ability to analyze and interpret graphs and charts. If you have strengths in data analysis, then the ACT may be the correct choice for you.
*Note that the science section will become optional for National online tests starting in spring 2025 and for school-day tests in spring 2026. If you have strengths in data analysis, then preparing to sit for the ACT plus Science may be the correct choice for you. Consider whether taking the Science section will raise your overall score in making this decision.
No (Now)
The ACT includes a science analysis section that tests students’ ability to analyze and interpret graphs and charts. The SAT does not include a science analysis section, though its Verbal section tests some data analysis. Overall, if you are less confident in data analysis, then the SAT may be the correct choice for you.
*Note that the science section will become optional for National online tests starting in spring 2025 and for school-day tests in spring 2026. Overall, if you are less confident in data analysis, then refer to the following points of consideration when choosing between preparing to sit for the ACT without Science or the SAT.
Yes (Spring 2025)
The ACT includes an optional science analysis section that tests students’ ability to analyze and interpret graphs and charts. If you have strengths in data analysis, then preparing to sit for the ACT plus Science may be the correct choice for you. *This change occurred for online tests starting in spring 2025 and for school-day tests in spring 2026.
No (Spring 2025)
The ACT includes an optional science analysis section that tests students’ ability to analyze and interpret graphs and charts. The SAT does not include a science analysis section, though its Verbal section tests some data analysis. Overall, if you are less confident in data analysis, then the SAT may be the correct choice for you. *This change occurred for online tests starting in spring 2025 and will occur for school-day tests in spring 2026. Overall, if you are less confident in data analysis, then refer to the following points of consideration when choosing between preparing to sit for the ACT without Science or the SAT.
Yes (Spring 2026)
*This change is applicable to both online and school-day tests as of spring 2026.
No (Spring 2026)
*This change is applicable to both online and school-day tests as of spring 2026.
Do you prefer answering many straightforward questions quickly or devoting longer amounts of time to answering complex questions?
Now (Straightforward)
The ACT poses straightforward questions that often resemble questions posed on school tests. If you prefer answering this type of question, then the ACT may be for you.
Now (Complex)
The SAT poses complex questions that require analytical thinking and nuanced answers. If you enjoy answering analytical questions, the SAT may be the correct choice for you.
Spring 2025 (Straightforward)
The ACT poses straightforward questions that often resemble questions posed on school tests. If you prefer answering this type of question, then the ACT may be for you.
Spring 2025 (Complex)
The SAT poses complex questions that require analytical thinking and nuanced answers. If you enjoy answering analytical questions, the SAT may be the correct choice for you.
Spring 2026 (Straightforward)
The ACT poses straightforward questions that often resemble questions posed on school tests. If you prefer answering this type of question, then the ACT may be for you.
Spring 2026 (Complex)
The SAT poses complex questions that require analytical thinking and nuanced answers. If you enjoy answering analytical questions, the SAT may be the correct choice for you.
Are you a fast or slow test-taker?
Now (Fast)
The ACT asks many more questions than the SAT. If you feel confident about answering questions quickly, you should consider taking the ACT.
*Note that starting in the spring of 2025 for online tests and in the spring of 2026 for school-day tests, the ACT will have as few as 131 questions and the SAT will have 98 questions.
Now (Slow)
The ACT asks more questions than the SAT. Many students feel less rushed when taking the ACT, so if you are worried about timing and pacing, you should consider taking the SAT. [Continue]
*Note that starting in the spring of 2025 for online tests and in the spring of 2026 for school-day tests, the ACT will be shortened by ⅓ and ask 44 fewer questions in all. ***
Spring 2025 (Fast)
The ACT asks slightly more questions than the SAT. If you feel confident about answering questions quickly, you should consider taking the ACT. **
Spring 2025 (Slow)
The ACT asks slightly more questions than the SAT. Many students feel less rushed when taking the SAT, so if you are worried about timing and pacing, you should consider taking the SAT.
Spring 2026 (Fast)
The ACT asks ____ questions than the SAT. If you feel confident about answering questions quickly, you should consider taking the ACT. **
Spring 2026 (Fast)
The ACT asks_____ than the SAT. Many students feel less rushed when taking the ACT, so if you are worried about timing and pacing, you should consider taking the SAT.
Have you taken Pre-calculus or Algebra 2?
Yes
The math questions on the ACT cover topics covered in most trigonometry and pre-calculus classes, which gives students an edge if they have taken these classes in school. If you have taken and mastered the material taught in these classes, consider taking the ACT.
No
The math section of the SAT does not cover as much pre-calculus as the ACT and asks fewer questions about trigonometry. If you have not yet taken these classes, consider taking the SAT.
KEY TIP
“Both the SAT and the ACT cover an extensive range of material—essentially all four years of high school math, grammar, and reading comprehension. Many students struggle not because they lack intelligence but because they haven’t been exposed to all the necessary concepts in a way that “clicks” for them. Additionally, much of this material is cumulative, so if a student lacks the foundational knowledge in English grammar or algebra, they will struggle with more advanced topics.”
If you want to learn more about how our Senior Tutors help students level up their scores, check out our Q&A with Senior Tutor Caleb Kim!
Are you skilled at interpreting longer passages of content or shorter ones?
Shorter
The digital SAT provides one short paragraph per question and underlines the evidence in the question when necessary, so students don’t have to devote time to wading through an entire multi-paragraph passage. However, the questions posed on the SAT tend to be more analytical.
Longer
ACT reading questions tend to be less complex because they are straightforward and often pulled verbatim from the text, but you do still need to read and hunt for evidence in entire multi-paragraph passages.
Summary: While the two tests assess slightly different subject matter and skills, the most important thing is that students feel confident and comfortable with the exam they have chosen. These exams are comparable in overall difficulty, and colleges view them equally, so there should be no external factors affecting students’ choices. See the table below for a summary of the differences between the two tests:
| | SAT | ACT* |
|---|---|---|
| Sections | Reading and Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Optional Science, Optional Writing |
| Math Level Range | Algebra 2 | Pre-calc |
| Question Number | 98 questions | 171 questions (total), 131 questions (without science section) |
| Length of Test | 2 hours 15 minutes | 2 hours minimum, 2 hours 40 minutes with science, 3 hours 20 minutes with science and writing |
| Scoring | Out of 1600 (800 each section) | Out of 36 (each section scored out of 36 and final score is based on the composite of all sections) |
KEY TIP
“The best way to decide between the SAT and ACT is to take diagnostic tests for both. Some students naturally perform better on one exam over the other, so it’s crucial to identify strengths and weaknesses early in order to build a targeted strategy and timeline.”
For more on the structures of the ACT and SAT and how you can prepare for each, check out our Q&A with Director of Tutoring Aaron Cotton!
How do you determine your goal SAT or ACT score?
Your goal score will depend on the colleges that you are applying to. Many colleges post the middle 50% (25th to 75th percentile) SAT and ACT score range of admitted students on their websites. You should aim to score in the middle 50th percentile of scores posted by your top choice schools.
KEY TIP
Keep in mind that colleges aren’t looking for perfect scores; they want to see how proficient you are compared to other students. If you score a 750 and not an 800 on an SAT section, that does not mean your application won’t be strong. Your scores are an important aspect of your application, but they do not dictate the quality of your whole application.
“What may be a high score for one student could constitute a low score for another. For example, if a student’s dream school has a median score of 1500 for admitted students, then anything significantly below that could be considered “low” in the context of their profile!”
Which schools are you interested applying to?
Top
Top Schools (Ivy League, Stanford, MIT): If you are interested in applying to top schools, you should aim to score 1500+ on the SAT or 34+ on the ACT. However, you should still visit college pages and aim to score in the middle 50% of scores for admitted students at a particular college. Of course, the higher the score, the better
Selective
Selective Schools (Amherst, Bowdoin, Tufts): If you are interested in applying to selective schools, you should aim to score 1400-1490 on the SAT or 31-34 on the ACT. However, you should still visit college pages and aim to score in the middle 50% of scores for admitted students at a particular college. Of course, the higher the score, the better.
Less Selective
Less Selective Schools (Michigan State, Bucknell, Syracuse): If you are interested in applying to less selective schools, you should aim to score 1300-1400 on the SAT or 28-31 on the ACT. However, you should still visit college pages and aim to score in the middle 50% of scores for admitted students at a particular college. Of course, the higher the score, the better.
When should you take the SAT or the ACT?
Testing timelines are unique to each student and are highly dependent on a number of factors including grade level, how much improvement needs to be made, and the quantity of time a student can dedicate to studying each week. Students should consider signing up for 2-3 test date, as many students increase their scores after their first sitting.
Have you taken the SAT or ACT practice exams?
Yes
Compare your goal score to your practice test score to determine how much improvement you need to make. The difference between the two scores will dictate how much studying and preparation will be necessary.
No
Visit College Board or ACT.org to find free practice exams. You should take at least one diagnostic test to find out how you’re scoring and how much you need to improve your score. This information will dictate how much studying and preparation will be necessary.
KEY TIP
“I like to say that test taking is like making a crock pot recipe—it takes time. Cramming the information 72 hours before the test will not allow you to retain the material in either the short or long term. Students who truly excel in the testing process are those who start early!”
How much improvement would you like to see?
300+ SAT, 9+ ACT
If you are aiming. to increase your score by 300+ SAT/9+ ACT, you should plan to study consistently for 6 months or more (about 7 hours a week). If you are not able to set aside time consistently, consider extending the 6 month timeline or consult the tutoring department for a tailored plan.
200+ SAT, 5+ ACT
If you are aiming to increase your score by 200+ SAT/5+ ACT, you should plan to study consistently for 4-6 months. If you are not able to set aside time consistently, consider extending the 4-6 month timeline or consult the tutoring department for a tailored plan.
100+ SAT, 3+ ACT
If you are aiming to increase your score by 100+ SAT/3+ ACT, you should plan to study consistently for 2-4 months. If you are not able to set aside time consistently, consider extending the 2-4 month timeline or consult the tutoring department for a tailored plan.
50+ SAT, 2+ ACT
If you are aiming to increase your score by 50+ SAT/2+ ACT, you should plan to study consistently for 1-2 months. If you are not able to set aside time consistently, consider extending the 1-2 month timeline or consult the tutoring department for a tailored plan.
Satisfied with Score
If you are consistently scoring in your target range, choose a testing date and register for the exam online.
Have you registered for the SAT/ACT?
We recommend signing up for 2-3 test dates as soon as you have determined your testing timeline, as many students’ scores increase after their first sitting.
Yes
Great! Mark the date in your calendar and consider signing up for 1-2 additional test dates.
No
Monitor registration dates and when you find one that suits your timeline, register! We recommend registering as soon as possible because testing sites can fill up quickly. You can find ACT registration here and SAT registration here. Follow each website’s respective instructions for registration to secure a spot. Some students are eligible to receive SAT and ACT free waivers, as well as some free test preparation materials, If you think you might be eligible, click the links to learn more about the criteria and application process. If you qualify, the easiest way to request accommodations for the SAT/ACT is to work with your school guidance counselor.
How should you prepare for the SAT or the ACT?
No matter how you learn or which test you’re planning to take, the key to reaching your goal score is practice and repetition. Students should work to build up their strengths and improve their weaknesses. Testing and retesting can ensure that students master the content while also familiarizing themselves with the types of questions that are asked and the best strategies for answering them.
What year of high school are you in?
First Year
Most young students will not have learned the topics that are tested on standardized tests in their classes in school, so testing during the first year of high school can be intensive and unproductive. However, as students start to learn these topics in their classes, they can take steps to make future test prep easy and efficient. One way to prepare is to take the PSAT or preACT– pre-standardized test exams that can give students an idea of what the actual tests will look like. Taking challenging classes and building a strong foundation in English and math will set students up to succeed when they do begin studying. Additionally, reading across genres (outside of required reading) is especially important for succeeding on the reading sections on either exam. And, of course, developing healthy study habits and working on time management skills will benefit students in the long run.
Sophomore
Although most sophomores have not yet mastered all of the topics assessed by the exams, students can begin to reinforce topics they have covered and begin to familiarize themselves with material they have yet to study. One way to prepare is to take the PSAT or PreACT– pre-standardized test exams that can give students an idea of what the actual tests will be like. As sophomores, students should continue taking challenging classes to build a strong foundation in English and math. Additionally, reading across genres (outside of required reading) is especially important for success on the reading sections on either exam. And, of course, developing healthy study habits and working on time management skills will benefit students in the long run.
Junior
Junior year is the year most students feel comfortable and prepared to study and sit for the test, as they have covered the majority of material in class and are beginning the college application process. After choosing a test and goal score, the most effective way to study is through practice and repetition. Students should review all of the content assessed by the exams and practice applying formulas and understanding pertinent rules. In addition, students should apply this content and take practice exams to familiarize themselves with the questions and timing of the tests. Additionally, reading across genres (outside of required reading) is especially important for success on the reading sections on either exam.
Senior
By senior year, most—if not all—of testing subjects should have been studied in class. After choosing a test and goal score, the most effective way to study is through practice and repetition. Students should review all the content covered on the exams and practice applying formula and understanding pertinent rules. In addition, students should apply this content and take practice exams to familiarize themselves with the questions and timing of the test. Additionally, reading across genres (outside of required reading) is especially important for success on the reading sections on either exam. Is is especially important for seniors to consider how much time they need to devote preparing college application and extracurricular activities as they determine how much time they can dedicate to test preparation.
Do you learn best through studying textbooks or through teacher or peer guidance?
Books
Consider buying SAT or ACT test prep books. The books very in terms of teaching style, difficulty, and strategies offered, so we recommend trying a few different books or doing some research to determine which option would be best suit your needs.
Teacher
Consider in-person or online prep courses and tutoring if you learn best through interaction and instruction.
Do you need more structure and motivation or more flexibility?
Structure
Tutoring can be a good resource if you require a more structures learning environment. Tutors can provide structure and guidance and help reinforce good study habits.
Flexibility
Prep books allow students to self-pace and study anywhere, anytime. However, students studying with prep books should feel confident in their ability to discipline and motivate themselves. In addition, these students should establish a timeline before starting to make sure they allow themselves enough time to practice and review each topic.
Test Day Checklist
FAQs about the digital SAT can be found here, and the ACT, complete checklist and FAQ can be found here. We recommend that students go through the checklist both when registering and prior to the exam to ensure that they bring all necessary materials.
ACT Checklist includes: calculator, no. 2 pencils, valid photo ID, an acceptable watch, admission ticket, etc.
SAT Devices: Students can take the digital SAT Suite on a laptop or tablet. They can use a personal device or a school-issued device. They will need to complete an exam set-up if you choose to use a personal device.
What should you do after you take the SAT or the ACT?
Although the challenge of taking the exam is over, there are still a few actions that you might need to take depending on your testing plan, potential score, and college list. Answering the following questions will help you determine whether you may need to test again or if your scores are ready for submission.
Will you superscore?
While it’s preferable to send one score, there are certain policies in place that can allow you to present your score in a flattering way through superscore or score choice. Be sure to check each college’s policies regarding the cores they accept.
Score Choice
You get to decide which test scores to send, meaning that if you did not do as well as you hoped on a test, you might not need to share its results. This option does vary from school to school, so please check each school’s individual score submission policies!
Superscore
The composite score that results from your best scores on each section across multiple test dates. The ACT automatically calculates your super score after the second test date, and it will never be lower that your single composite score from one test. The benefit of superscoring is that it allows one to showcase the best of their abilities in one score. This option does vary from school to school, so please check their individual score submission policies.
Are you confident that you achieved a score within the range of your goal score?
Yes
If you achieved your goal score and do not plan to sit for the test again, you can begin the process of submitting your official test scores!
No
If you feel you did not achieve your goal score, you have a few options. First, both tests offer a cancellation policy. Regardless of whether or not you decide to cancel, we recommend that students sign up for additional testing dates as most students feel more comfortable taking the exam and improve their score after their first sitting.
SAT: If you feel you didn’t do your best on the SAT, you can cancel your scores, but you need to act quickly! The College Board’s policy states “if you cancel by Thursday 11:59 p.m. ET before test day, you’ll receive a full refund of your registration fee but will be charged a cancellation fee:
- If you cancel before the regular cancellation deadline, the fee is $25.
- If you cancel after the regular cancellation deadline, by Thursday 11:59 p.m. ET before test day, the fee is $35.”
ACT: The ACT score cancellation policy is a little more flexible, even if you do not cancel, you can have the scores removed from your record after the exam is graded. To remove ACT scores from your record, you may request a form from their official website. If, when registering, you requested that the ACT share your scores with certain schools, keep in mind that you must submit the cancellation request by the Thursday following your testing day so that the scores are no longer sent. Are you planning on applying to a test-mandatory school or test-optional school? We recommend researching the policy put forth by each school on your college list, since schools have different requirements for submitting official test scores.
Are you applying to test-mandatory or test-optional schools?
Test-mandatory
Most schools that require test scores will allow students to self-report their scores on the Common App and will only require an official score report if the student is admitted and decides to matriculate; however, we recommend researching the specific score submission policies put forth by each of the schools on your college list.
Test-optional
The score submissions policies will be similar to those of test-mandatory schools. When deciding whether to submit a score to schools that do not require standardized test scores, check to see where your score falls with respect to the standardized test score ranges for admitted students. Generally, if your score falls in the middle 50% or above, you should submit it. If it does not, you should apply without a test score.
Standardized Test Dictionary
Test-optional: Colleges that are test-optional allow the applicants to decide whether they want to submit any SAT or ACT scores as a part of their application. If you do send your scores, they will be reviewed with your application; if you choose not to share your scores, it will not be counted against you. If you are deciding whether or not to share your scores, we recommend that you check to see where your score falls with respect to standardized test score ranges for admitted students for each of the schools you are considering applying to. Generally, if your score falls in the middle 50% or above, you should submit it. If it does not, you should apply without a test score. Please research each school on your college list to see which score submission policies will be applying to you!
Test-mandatory: Colleges with test-mandatory policies require that SAT and ACT scores be shared as a part of the application process. Most schools will allow you to self-report your scores on the premise that you share the official report if you are admitted and decide to matriculate. Please research each school on your college list to see which score submission policies will apply to you!
Test-blind: Schools that have test-blind policies will not review or consider a student’s SAT or ACT scores, even if shared, as a part of the application process. Please research each school on your college list to see which score submission policies will be applying to you!
Score Choice: you get to decide which test scores to send, meaning that if you did not do as well as you hoped on a test, you might not need to share the results. Please keep in mind that score choice refers to composite scores, not individual section scores. This option does vary from school to school, so please research each school on your college list to see which score submission policies will apply to you!
Superscore: the composite score that results from your best scores from each section across multiple test attempts. The ACT automatically calculates your super score after the second test date, and it will never be lower than your single composite score from one test. The benefit of superscoring is that it allows students to showcase the best of their abilities in one score. This option does vary from school to school, so please research each school on your college list to see which score submission policies will apply to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prepare for the SAT/ACT as a freshman?
Your freshman year of high school is not too early to start preparing for the SAT/ACT. That being said, you will not yet have taken the courses necessary to begin taking practice exams or engaging with all of the testing materials directly. The best ways to prepare for standardized tests during your first year of high school include:
- Reading across genres: Reading lays at the foundation of the SAT and ACT. Whether you’re dissecting a fiction passage on the SAT or racing through a scientific research summary on the ACT, your reading comprehension skills will be tested throughout these tests — even on the math sections! In fact, many students miss math questions not because they do not know how to solve a problem, but because they misread part of a problem. Given the universality of reading across all sections of these exams, it’s crucial that you work on sharpening your critical reading skills long before you sign up to take these tests.
- Building your test-taking stamina: One of the most challenging aspects of test taking is developing the ability to focus intently for a long stretch of time without interruption. Students can build this skill by taking preliminary tests such as the PSAT, as well as carving out time in their schedules to turn off their phones and do focused academic work (whether studying, doing homework, reading, or writing).
- Developing strong study habits: Freshman year is the ideal time to get to know yourself as a student, which will help you effectively prepare for the SAT/ACT later on in your high school years. When and where do you study most productively? How do you balance your schoolwork and extracurricular activities? What motivates you to excel in school? Every student will answer these questions differently, and you should work on figuring out your own answers to these questions throughout your first year of high school.
- Building a strong academic foundation: While you should pay attention in all of your classes, for the SAT and ACT, it’s particularly important that you understand grammar rules and the basics of algebra and geometry, which are often taught in ninth grade English and math classes. These topics make up the vast majority of the content tested on the SAT and ACT, and having a solid grasp of the concepts tested on these exams early in your high school career will save you the headache of having to relearn this content a few months before your test date.
- Working on your time management skills: While freshman year is a little early to start working on test pacing, it’s a fantastic time to develop your time management skills. You should work on completing homework assignments efficiently and not second guessing yourself, both of which are skills that will come in handy when you suddenly find yourself with a minute (or less) to answer a question on the SAT or ACT.
Should I prepare for the SAT/ACT as a sophomore or junior in high school?
We usually recommend students sit for the SAT or ACT during their sophomore or junior years, so these are the years to ramp up your test prep efforts. Keep in mind that students who work with tutors tend to move through the test prep process more quickly than those who work on their own; however, you can go through the following steps on your own or with an SAT/ACT tutor.
How should I prepare for the test on test day?
A major part of mentally preparing for an important test like the SAT or ACT is creating and sticking to your test prep timeline; however, here are a few additional tips to help you be mentally ready for the SAT or ACT as your test day approaches.
- Review the SAT or ACT Test Day Checklist: Lay out your materials the night before to ensure that you wake up ready and equipped for the day.
- Visualize Success: Rather than spending the morning anxiously seeking to cram information (which will not ultimately work!), instead envision yourself reaching your goal score. The more you approach the test with a sense of confidence and self-assuredness, the more likely you are to excel.
- Get Enough Sleep In The Weeks Before Your Exam: With adequate sleep, you will be better prepared to think clearly and calmly while taking the test. A recent study found that only getting a good night’s sleep the night before the exam is not necessarily enough to make a significant impact on your test performance; you’ll need a few weeks of adequate sleep to see tangible results.
How Many Times Should I Take the SAT or ACT?
There are a few obvious benefits to retaking standardized tests (the primary one being the potential to get a higher score), but there are also drawbacks to repeatedly retaking them. Before signing up for tests again, ask yourself:
- How much time do I have to prepare for the SAT or ACT?
- If you know that you’re going to be swamped with extracurriculars or coursework, or if you feel burned out from previous testing attempts, then it’s a good idea to reassess whether or not a retake is a worthwhile investment of your time and money.
- How much improvement can I really expect?
- Be realistic about your previous testing attempts, and consider how much room for improvement you actually have. If, for example, you were sick on test day but routinely score much higher on practice tests, then you might want to seriously consider a retake. If, on the other hand, you scored well previously and have yet to substantially improve your score (even with the help of test prep), then it might not be reasonable to expect a substantial point increase.
- Will a higher test score substantially improve my chances?
- The short answer is, it depends. Candidates who are on-target for their top choice colleges but have test scores below the mean of admitted students could probably benefit from a retake; however, a better standardized test score will not magically enable students who are otherwise uncompetitive to gain admission to their dream school. Additionally, keep in mind that small increases (up to 50 points) will rarely, if ever, be the determining factor in admissions.
- Should I focus my attention elsewhere?
- There are many facets of a college application, and it is unwise to fixate on one at the expense of all the others. In general, focus on those aspects of the process that are still within your control; you should be sure to put your best, most polished foot forward in all of the subjective components of your application.
