Graduation and universities seem so fun once the school education is over. However, when it comes to sitting for various entrance exams and admission interviews, students are often terrified. But don’t you worry because as always we have got you this time too! The general confusion among students is whether to sit for the ACT or SAT. Therefore, here we are helping you decide on ACT VS SAT: which one is for you?
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What is the benefit of the ACT and SAT?
Both ACT and SAT are not only helpful in getting admissions to both national and international universities but they also help you in getting scholarships to pursue your dream of higher education from abroad.
Key similarities between ACT and SAT
Both exams follow a general timeline of three hours and hold sections like writing, reading, science, and math. On the other hand, registration for both exams opens one month before the exam and both do not contain any negative markings.
What is ACT?
American College Testing or ACT is a standardized test for students who are willing to take admission to undergraduate both national and international universities. (usually from the USA and Canada). On the other hand, it tests the student’s capabilities with written, mathematical, and science-related questions.
What is SAT?
Scholastic Assessment Test or SAT is also one of the leading standardized exams for studying abroad and for taking general admission in both national and international universities for undergrad students. On the other hand, the SAT is administered by the College Board to evaluate the written, verbal, and mathematical skills of the candidates.
Test Format
ACT – The test format of ACT is based on four sections which include; English, Maths, Reading, and Science. However, there is an optional section which is Essay writing to evaluate the writing skill of the candidate.
SAT – The test format of SAT is also based on four sections which include; Writing, Maths (with a calculator), Reading, and Maths (without a calculator). However, the writing section is combined with testing language skills.
Timing of the tests
ACT – However, both tests are given a general timing of three hours but as ACT contains an optional action of Essay writing then it comes down to 2 hrs 55 mins without Essay Writing and 3 hrs 35 mins with Essay Writing.
SAT – On the other hand, the SAT has a straight time of three hours in total.
Scoring System
ACT – The ACT exam uses a scoring system that ranges from 1-36 in total. Although each section is given scores based on this system and the average of all sections is given to you within this range. However, the optional essay writing has no additional marks given. So, you better skip that!
SAT – On the other hand, The SAT exam uses a scoring system that ranges from 400-1600. Although all three sections; Writing, Reading, and Maths are given scores in the range of 200-800 which is combined in total scores.
Charges
ACT – The ACT exam costs $63 for all sections. However, it was for $52 last year. On the other hand, $88 if the optional writing test is included, which was $70 last year.
SAT – While SAT can be a little pocket friendly but it includes more Math. The SAT will cost you $60.
Which one is for you?
Although, it depends on the university and country’s requirements. Hence, there is no perfect exam for getting admission instantly nor is there one which is easier. Therefore, both are widely accepted by all colleges and universities in the US and Canada. On the other hand, the ACT covers many subjects and increases hours, in addition to increased cost but also allows you to use a calculator for all math questions but SAT in recent changes has become a bit easier.
Summing up, now you know everything that you needed to know for deciding between ACT VS SAT: which one is for you? So, what have you decided? For more queries, feel free to connect with us! Our team of experts which has extensive expertise in studying abroad would love to assist you.
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