The SAT and ACT exams, both are most standard tests used by universities & colleges for admissions, and while they share similarities, both are differ in timing, structure, content & scoring.
I this blog , we will explain the key differences between SAT and ACT, so you can decide which exam is better suited to your strengths and goals.
What are the SAT and ACT?
SAT: Scholastic Assessment Test
The SAT is a standardized Exam administered by the College Board, Widely accepted by universities and colleges in the U.S. and beyond. It focus on evaluating readiness of students for colleges through writing, reading and math skills.ACT: American College Testing
The American College Testing is manages by ACT, INC. and is accepted by most universities in the USA, It measures what a student has learned in school and includes science section.
SAT vs ACT Exam: Which is Easier?
| Feature | SAT | ACT |
| Full Form | Scholastic Assessment Test | American College Testing |
| Sections | Reading, Writing & Language, Math, (Optional Essay discontinued) | English, Math, Reading, Science (Optional Writing – now rarely required) |
| Duration | 2 hours 14 minutes | 2 hours 55 minutes (without essay) |
| Score Range | 400–1600 | 1–36 |
| Math Content | Algebra, geometry, basic trigonometry; calculator and non-calculator sections | Algebra, geometry, trigonometry; a calculator allowed for all |
| Reading Style | Evidence-based, vocabulary-focused | Straightforward, often more content-heavy |
| Science Section | No dedicated section (some science-based reading in the Reading section) | Includes a dedicated Science reasoning section |
| Essay/Writing | Discontinued after June 2021 | Optional (but mostly not required) |
| Test Availability in India | Available 6–7 times/year | Available 5–6 times/year |
| Accepted By | All U.S. colleges | All U.S. colleges |