SAT vs ACT: Which Test Should You Take?
A guide for Philadelphia-area families choosing between standardized tests
Both Tests Are Accepted Everywhere
Every four-year college and university in the United States accepts both the SAT and ACT equally. There is no admissions advantage to taking one over the other. The key is to figure out which test better suits your student's strengths.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | SAT (Digital) | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | ~2 hours 14 min | ~2 hours 55 min (+ 40 min writing) |
| Format | Digital, adaptive | Paper or digital |
| Score Range | 400-1600 | 1-36 |
| Sections | Reading & Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Science |
| Science Section | No dedicated section | Yes (40 questions) |
| Calculator | Allowed on all math | Allowed on all math |
| Reading Style | Shorter passages | Longer passages, faster pace |
Who Tends to Do Better on the SAT?
Students who perform well on the SAT typically have strong vocabulary and reading comprehension skills, are comfortable with data analysis and word problems, prefer a slightly more relaxed pace, and do well with adaptive testing (where the difficulty adjusts based on performance).
Who Tends to Do Better on the ACT?
The ACT often favors students who are fast readers and test-takers, comfortable with straightforward science interpretation, strong in grammar and punctuation rules, and prefer a consistent format where every student sees the same questions.
How to Decide: Take Both Practice Tests
The most reliable way to choose is to take a full-length, timed practice test of each under realistic conditions. Many tutors in the Greater Philadelphia area offer free diagnostic assessments that include both an SAT and ACT practice test, complete with score comparison reports.
Once you have scores from both, you can convert them using College Board's concordance tables to see which test puts your student in a better position.
Can You Take Both Tests?
Absolutely. Many students take both the SAT and ACT and then submit whichever score is higher. However, most test prep experts recommend focusing preparation on one test to maximize improvement. If you're unsure, start with diagnostic tests and let the data guide your decision.
Get Expert Help Deciding
A qualified test prep tutor can review your student's diagnostic results, academic strengths, and testing style to make a personalized recommendation. Browse tutors in your area to find one who offers free consultations:
- Main Line tutors
- Center City Philadelphia tutors
- Montgomery County tutors
- Delaware County tutors
- Bucks County tutors
- South Jersey tutors
- Princeton Area tutors
Quick Decision Guide
Your student may prefer the SAT if they:
- ✓ Have strong vocabulary and reading comprehension
- ✓ Prefer shorter reading passages
- ✓ Are comfortable with data analysis and word problems
- ✓ Do well under adaptive testing conditions
- ✓ Prefer a slightly more relaxed pace
Your student may prefer the ACT if they:
- ✓ Are fast readers who can manage time pressure well
- ✓ Are comfortable interpreting graphs, tables, and scientific data
- ✓ Have strong grammar and punctuation skills
- ✓ Prefer a consistent format where everyone sees the same questions
- ✓ Excel in science and math courses