To SAT or to ACT? That is the (college-bound) question. Most colleges and universities in the U.S. use these standardized tests to help assess a student’s readiness for higher education. While they both serve the same general purpose, they each have their own format, timing, and focus, and understanding the differences can make the decision feel much less overwhelming.
Deciding if your child should take the SAT, ACT or both is about finding the best fit for their longterm goals. At Outschool, families can explore live, small-group classes that help students build confidence, sharpen their skills, and prepare for the ACT or SAT with support that fits their needs.
Key differences between the ACT and SAT
When it comes to the ACT and SAT, the biggest question students and parents often have is: what’s the difference? At first glance, they look pretty similar; they’re both college entrance exams accepted by nearly every U.S. college, and both test reading, writing, and math skills. The main differences lie in timing, scoring, and content. Below are some key differences in content between the ACT and SAT:
What's covered on the ACT
- English: Focuses on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and rhetorical skills (editing and improving passages).
- Math: Covers pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, and a small amount of trigonometry. Calculator use is allowed for the entire section.
- Reading: Includes four passages with questions that test reading comprehension, main ideas, and supporting evidence.
- Science: Tests the ability to interpret data, read graphs, and understand scientific reasoning, no actual science knowledge required.
- Optional writing essay: Presents a prompt with multiple perspectives; students write an argument analyzing the viewpoints.
What's covered on the SAT
- Reading: Includes reading comprehension questions based on literature, history, science, and social studies passages.
- Writing and language: Focuses on grammar, sentence structure, and editing skills, students revise short passages for clarity and correctness.
- Math (two sections): One section allows calculator use; the other does not. These sections cover algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math.
- No science section: While science skills like data analysis may appear in reading or math, no dedicated science portion exists.
- No optional essay: The SAT no longer includes an essay section.
Understanding what each test covers can help you and your child make a more confident, informed decision. While both exams assess core academic skills, their structure and focus areas can play to different strengths.
Which test plays to your strength?
Every student has a unique learning style, and that’s especially important to consider when choosing between the ACT and SAT. While both tests are designed to measure college readiness, they approach it differently. Understanding how your child learns, processes information, and handles time pressure can help you guide them toward the test that best fits their strengths.
The ACT might be a better fit if your child…
- Works quickly and feels comfortable managing a fast-paced test with more, shorter questions.
- Is confident in science and enjoys interpreting charts, graphs, and data visuals.
- Prefers straightforward, to-the-point questions with less analysis required.
- Likes having access to a calculator throughout all math sections.
The SAT might be a better fit if your child…
- Needs a little more time to think through each question and prefers a steadier pace.
- Is strong in algebra and math reasoning, and doesn’t mind a section that requires working without a calculator.
- Enjoys reading and analyzing longer passages and picking apart the details.
- Prefers depth over speed and likes focusing on fewer questions with more time.
There’s no right or wrong choice, just the option that makes your child feel more confident and capable. It’s important to note that most U.S. colleges accept both tests equally, but some regions may lean one way. You can find out more on your target college admissions websites.
Understanding ACT and SAT score comparisons
It’s natural to wonder how ACT and SAT scores stack against each other, especially if your child is trying both or applying to schools that accept either test. While the tests use different scoring scales, 1600 for the SAT and 36 for the ACT, colleges use concordance tables to compare them fairly. These conversions help admissions teams look at scores side by side and evaluate students consistently, no matter which test they took.
As a parent, you don’t need to worry about doing the math yourself; many official tools and charts help translate one score to the other. What matters most is how your child’s score fits into the range of accepted scores for the schools they’re interested in. Instead of aiming for a perfect number, focus on helping your child improve steadily, understand their strengths, and build confidence.
Practical strategies for excelling in ACT and SAT
With the right approach, test prep can become a manageable and even empowering part of the journey toward college readiness. These simple strategies can help your learner stay focused, build confidence, and make steady progress over time.
- Consider starting with a full-length practice test
It’s an excellent way for your child to experience the timing and structure firsthand, and it helps identify where to focus their prep.
- Try building a steady, low-stress prep routine
A few short sessions each week can go a long way, consistency often works better than last-minute cramming.
- Focus extra time on trickier sections
If a specific subject or question type is giving your child trouble, practicing it more often can build skill and confidence.
- Encourage reviewing mistakes, not just redoing questions
Understanding why an answer was wrong helps your child learn smarter and avoid repeating the same errors.
- Explore a mix of prep tools and formats
Combining books, apps, videos, or online platforms can keep things interesting and help your child stay engaged.
And don’t forget to keep it in perspective. Getting caught up in the pressure around these exams is easy, but test scores are just one part of the college journey, not the whole story. Remind your learner that these tests don’t define their abilities or future. What matters most is steady progress, thoughtful preparation, and knowing they’re more than a number.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about ACT and SAT
Choosing between the ACT and SAT often comes with many questions, especially when figuring out what's best for your child. These common questions and answers help you feel more informed and ready to support your child every step of the way.
Should my child take both the ACT and SAT?
Most students do not need to take both. Instead, have your child take a full-length practice test to see which one feels more comfortable. From there, focus prep efforts on the better fit. This will save time, reduce stress, and allow for more focused improvement. It is also important to confirm which test the college your child wants to apply to accepts.
Which test matches my learning style better?
Try a practice version of both tests; this hands-on experience tells you more than any comparison chart. If you're quick with numbers and love science, you might feel right at home with the ACT. The SAT may be better if you prefer a slightly slower pace and like analyzing texts.
How many times can my child take the ACT or SAT?
Students can take either test multiple times. Many colleges use superscores to combine the best section scores from multiple test dates. Retaking the test can be helpful for growth, but it's best to go in with a prep plan instead of relying on repeat attempts.
When should I start getting ready?
Give yourself three to six months of prep time before your planned test date. Start with a practice test to see where you stand, then create a study schedule that fits your life. Starting early allows you to build skills gradually and avoid last-minute pressure.
What’s considered a “good” ACT or SAT score?
A good score depends on your child’s college goals. Research the average scores at their target schools and aim to fall within or above that range. Remember that schools consider the whole application, so strong academics, essays, or extracurriculars can still balance a slightly lower score.
Every student’s path to college looks a little different, and there’s no single correct answer regarding test prep. What matters most is finding the approach that supports your child’s strengths, goals, and confidence. With the correct information and some planning, you can help them move forward feeling prepared and empowered.
Making your choice and moving forward
Deciding between the ACT and SAT is an important part of your child’s education journey, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of guidance, a few practice runs, and some thoughtful preparation, your child can choose the test that feels like the best fit and approach it with clarity and confidence.
Regardless of their path, the key is supporting them with the tools, strategies, and encouragement they need to succeed. At Outschool, families can find engaging, expert-led classes that help students navigate test prep in a supportive, flexible, and empowering way.
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