The two tests side by side
| ACT | SAT | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 125 minutes for English, math and reading; 165 with science | 134 minutes (2 h 14), with a 10-minute break |
| Sections | English 50 questions in 35 min; math 45 in 50; reading 36 in 40; science 40 in 40 (optional); writing 40 min (optional) | Reading and Writing 54 questions in 64 min; math 44 in 70, each in two modules |
| Adaptive? | No | Yes: the second module of each section adapts to the first |
| Scoring | 1 to 36; the composite is the average of English, math and reading | 400 to 1600; each section 200 to 800 |
| Calculator | Allowed on the math section | A built-in graphing calculator is available throughout math, or bring an approved one |
| Optional parts | Science and writing | None |
Some questions on each test do not count toward your score: the SAT includes two unscored pretest questions in each module, and the ACT includes unlabeled field-test items.
Dates still ahead
| Item | Test date | Regular registration deadline |
|---|---|---|
| SAT | Nov 7, 2026 | Closed |
| SAT | Dec 5, 2026 | Nov 20, 2026 |
| SAT | Mar 6, 2027 | Feb 19, 2027 |
| SAT | May 1, 2027 | Apr 16, 2027 |
| SAT | Jun 5, 2027 | May 21, 2027 |
| ACT | Dec 12, 2026 | Nov 6, 2026 |
| ACT | Feb 27, 2027 | Jan 22, 2027 |
| ACT | Apr 10, 2027 | Mar 5, 2027 |
| ACT | Jun 12, 2027 | May 7, 2027 |
How to choose
- Take one full practice test of each, timed, in the same week.
- Compare your scores with a concordance table, not by eye: the scales differ.
- Notice which felt more natural: the pace of the ACT, or the adaptive modules and built-in calculator of the SAT.
- Check which scores the colleges you want accept. Most accept both.
- Then put your practice into one of the two.
Questions people ask
What is the difference between the SAT and the ACT?
The SAT is digital and adaptive, 98 questions in 2 hours 14 minutes, scored 400 to 1600. The ACT is 125 minutes for English, math and reading, with optional science and writing, scored 1 to 36.
Is the SAT or the ACT easier?
Neither is easier for everyone. The ACT is faster-paced; the SAT is adaptive and has a built-in calculator. Take a practice test of each.
Is science still on the ACT?
It is now optional. The composite is the average of English, math and reading for tests taken from September 2025.
Is the SAT digital?
Yes. It is taken in the College Board's Bluebook app, and it is adaptive.
Can I take both?
Yes. Most US colleges accept either test, so you can take both and see which suits you.
Sources
- SAT: the structure of the test, College Board (accessed October 21, 2026)
- How SAT scores are calculated, College Board (accessed October 21, 2026)
- SAT dates and deadlines, College Board (accessed October 21, 2026)
- ACT exam sections and structure, ACT (accessed October 21, 2026)
- ACT user handbook, 2026-2027, ACT (September 2026)
Keep reading
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