ACT vs New SAT: Seven Major Differences
- ACT includes trigonometry, SAT does not
- ACT includes "science reasoning", which is logical reasoning based on data and scientific terms, but not based on classroom science.
- SAT deducts points for wrong answers. However, with a little coaching, students can actually use this to their ADVANTAGE.
- SAT Math demands scrutinizing the ENGLISH aspect of math questions. ACT is more straightforward, making it a more COMFORTABLE test, but not necessarily easier.
- SAT directly tests high level vocabulary. This rewards students who are big readers or are good vocabulary absorbers.
- SAT Reading is generally less interesting and the answers rely more on nuance.
- SAT Writing includes a written 25 minute essay. The ACT essay is optional now.
Our suggestion: for students seeking admission to competitive colleges, study for the SAT and disregard ACT if scores are strong, but add ACT prep if you have the time or if after two SATs the scores are unlikely to impress your target colleges.
One difference that need not be considered "major": ACT offers score choice. However, since colleges take the best scores, students need not be afraid of sending multiple SAT scores.
Our equally important suggestion: START EARLY. Colleges credit the best score, so it's important to have three or more opportunities to take these tests. With vacations, proms, and graduations, that means the students who plan in advance will have the best opportunities. This is especially true for families that want to take advantage of Early Decision. For students who've had a semester each of Algebra and Geometry by the end of sophomore year, the late summer before junior year and/or the fall of junior year are the best times to prep.