Guidance

Comparing the ACT versus the SAT

How does the ACT compare to the SAT? Does it really matter which test is taken?

There are some basic differences in these tests, and geographically speaking, certain tests are more popular in certain parts of the U.S. Colleges usually accept either test. The basic differences are:

1. The SAT has only two sections – verbal and math, plus beginning in March 2005 a writing section. The SAT doesn’t try to test what you learn in school, that is, it is more a test of aptitude and abstract reasoning. The ACT has four sections – English, math, reading, and science reasoning. In March 2005 a writing section will be optional. The ACT does try to test what you’ve learned in school.

2. The ACT is all multiple choice, while the SAT has some free-response answers.

3. The ACT is $28. Students have the option to include the writing section with the total cost being $42 or only take the original 4 sections for $28. The SAT is $41.50 and automatically includes the new writing section.

4. More people take the SAT.

5. On both the ACT & SAT a student gets 1 point for each correct question. On both the ACT & SAT students get 0 points for answers left blank. On the ACT 0 points are given or deducted for incorrect answers. On the SAT for incorrect answers, a fraction of a point is deducted based on the number of answer choices offered (in multiple choice).

• If 4 choices, 1/3 point deduction.
• If 5 choices, 1/4 point deduction.

For more information on the SAT, visit http://www.collegeboard.com. For more information on the ACT, visit http://www.act.org.

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