ACT vs SAT
ACT
The ACT is made up of 4 sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, plus an optional Essay. The section lengths range from 35 minutes (Reading and Science) to 60 minutes (Math). The content of Math, Science, and English is similar to what Junior students are learning in school.
SAT
The newly redesigned SAT has returned to the 1600 grading scale; Reading and Writing will combine for one section score. The Math will focus more on the content students are learning during their Junior year. Also, the Essay will be optional and not factored into the Reading/Writing score.
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|
ACT |
SAT |
Timing |
2 Hours 55 Minutes |
3 Hours |
Perfect Score |
36 |
1600 |
Math Section |
No formulas given; Calculators permitted for ALL sections (Topics covered: Geometry, Arithmetic, Algebra, Trigonometry) |
Lots of formulas given; Calculators permitted for ONE section (Topics covered: Some Geometry and Arithmetic, Advanced Algebra, Some Trigonometry, Interpretation of Data) |
Reading Section |
8% Vocabulary |
(Combined with Writing) 17% Vocabulary (Reading Questions) 7% Vocabulary (Writing Questions) Questions based on Graphs and Charts |
English/Writing Section |
3% Vocabulary |
|
Science Section |
Interpretation of Data Graphs and Charts |
No Science Section |
Contact Information |
www.actstudent.org | www.collegeboard.org |