Most U.S. Universities do not have a preference whether you take the SAT or ACT - you therefore have the choice which test to take.
There are a number of differences between the two tests. Below is a comparison to help you decide which one is best for you.
ACT | SAT | |
| Test Length | 3 hours, 25 minutes | 3 hours, 45 minutes |
| Test Sections | 5 sections | 10 sections |
| Science Content | Tests science reasoning (analysis, interpretation, problem solving) | Science not included |
| Math Content | 25% of the overall score; includes trigonometry; entirely multiple-choice | 33% of the overall score; no trigonometry questions; includes fill-in questions |
| Essay | Last section - optional | First section - required |
| Scoring | 5 scores of 1-36 per subject area. Composite Score: 1-36 | 3 scores of 200-800 per section. Total: 2400 |
| Guessing | No penalty for wrong guesses | Penalty for wrong guesses |
| Score History | Students decide which score is sent | A student’s entire score history is sent |
| Test Fee | $33.00 for the ACT (No Writing) $48.00 for the ACT Plus Writing | $68.00 |
| Register for the test (Please note students must register themselves for the test) | www.actstudent.org | www.collegeboard.com |
The key differences between the two tests are:
The ACT tests Math at a higher level than the SAT does
The ACT includes Science reasoning, but the SAT does not
The SAT has a compulsory essay, the essay on the ACT is optional
SAT and ACT Test Preparation
Kaplan offers a number of preparation options for both the SAT and ACT, so no matter which test you choose, Kaplan can help you score highly on Test Day. Please click on the links below for more information about the available options:
Kaplan SAT Preparation
Kaplan ACT Preparation
Still not sure which test will be best for you?
Come along to one of our U.S. Undergraduate Admissions Seminars and in addition to learning about the U.S. Admissions process, you'll also receive further infromation about the SAT, ACT and SAT Subject Tests. These seminars are available regularly and cost just £25.