The ACT and SAT Tests
Information about the college SAT and ACT tests, prep, scores, and more.
Planning for college takes lots of time and effort, but when done correctly, can help save wasted time and money attending the wrong college.
The ACT vs. SAT
There is a difference between the ACT and the SAT. Some students choose to take one, some students take both SAT and ACT tests. The differences between the two are outlined below.
The ACT Test
- Tests more cirriculum based skills
- Time: 2 Hours, 55 Minutes
- Verbal Skills Focus: Grammar, punctuation and syntax
- Includes: Science & trigonometry
- What some experts say: "...more knowledge-based and straightforward"
The SAT Test
- Tests problem solving and general reasoning skills
- Time: 3 Hours, 45 Minutes
- Verbal Skills Focus: Vocabulary
- Does NOT Include: Science & trigonometry
- What some experts say: "...more nuanced, puzzlelike, trickier"
Colleges & universities claim they don't have a preference for one over the other. Typically it is better to take both (if you school offers both tests).
Free Online SAT & ACT Practice Tests
Free online practice tests for both the ACT and SAT can be found on the following websites:
ACT & SAT Practice Test Tips
In order to get the most out of your SAT or ACT practice. Be sure to time yourself and take the test in an environment with no distractions, similar to what you would experience taking the real ACT or SAT.
Additional resources on ACT vs SAT
- ACT vs. SAT - Kaplan Test Prep and Admissions
- ACT vs. SAT - New York Times
- Showdown: ACT vs. SAT - Petersons
<< Back to: College Planning
