Standardized Testing Comparison Chart
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Which test should you take? There are differences between the SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) and the ACT (American College Testing "college readiness assessment"). However, colleges weigh them equally. That means you get to choose which test is right for you. Here are the primary differences: |
| SAT | ACT | |
| Test Length | Approx. 3 hours (plus 50 minutes for optional essay) | Approx. 3 hours (plus 40 minutes for optional essay) |
| Sections | Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (Reading, Writing & Language), Math, plus an optional essay | English, Math, Reading, Science Reasoning, plus an optional essay |
| Scoring | Total score range: 400-1600; Evidence-Based Reading & Writing and Math sections scored between 200-800; Optional Writing Test score of 6-24 | Composite of 1-36: based on average scores from English, Math, Reading, and Science sections. Optional Writing Test score of 2-12 |
| Essay requirement | Essay is optional | Essay is optional |
| Penalty for wrong answers (i.e. random guessing) | None | None |
| Math Content | Arithmetic Algebra I & II Geometry Trigonometry Data Analysis (Note: Some math problems don’t allow use of calculator) |
Arithmetic Algebra I & II Geometry Trigonometry Note: Calculator allowed for all math problems |
| Dates offered | March May June August October November December |
February April June July September October December |
| Registration links | SAT | ACT |
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SAT SUBJECT TESTS Subjects available:
Languages:
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