Choose SAT or ACT
1 weekTake a free practice test of both exams to determine which format suits your strengths — many colleges accept either.
Field context
This workflow is part of 8 niche fields
Free step-by-step sat/act preparation for high school juniors. Plan sat act with calculators and checklists covering choose sat or act, set target score.
Take a free practice test of both exams to determine which format suits your strengths — many colleges accept either.
Research median scores at target colleges and set a goal 50-100 points above their 25th percentile for competitive standing.
Dedicate 5-10 hours/week for 3-6 months using official prep materials, Khan Academy (free), or prep courses.
Register for test date, take the exam, review score report section-by-section, and decide whether to retake.
Identify target score ranges for chosen colleges.
Estimate merit aid tied to test score thresholds.
Compare cost of private tutoring vs prep courses.
Budget for prep materials, courses, and exam fees.
Key differences between the two US college admissions tests.
| Feature | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2h 14m (digital) | 2h 55m |
| Sections | Reading, Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading, Science |
| Scoring | 400-1600 | 1-36 |
| Cost | $68 | $68 |
Third-party books approximate but differ from actual exam format — College Board Bluebook app mirrors the digital SAT exactly.
Even at test-optional schools, strong scores strengthen applications and unlock merit scholarships.
Students on free/reduced lunch qualify for SAT/ACT fee waivers covering registration and score sends.