Ah, the classic SAT vs. ACT dilemma! It’s one of the most common questions I hear from parents trying to figure out the best path for their child’s college admissions journey. With recent updates—like the new digital SAT and upcoming changes to the ACT—understanding the differences is key. Let’s dive into the specifics of each test’s format, timing, sections, and other important features to help you and your child make the best decision.
The Digital SAT: What’s New?
The SAT recently transitioned to a fully digital format. Here’s how the new digital SAT is structured:
- Total Test Duration: The digital SAT is approximately 2 hours long, significantly shorter than the previous version.
- Sections: The test consists of two main sections—Reading & Writing (RW) and Math. Each section is divided into two modules, with the second module’s difficulty level adjusting based on your child’s performance on the first module. This adaptive format aims to tailor the test to the student’s ability level and potentially minimize fatigue.
- Number of Questions: The Reading & Writing section has 54 questions, while the Math section includes 44 questions. The total number of questions is thus 98.
- Time Per Section: The Reading & Writing section has 64 minutes allocated, while the Math section has 70 minutes, giving students more time per question compared to the previous version.
- Calculator Usage: The digital SAT allows calculator use for the entire Math section, and students can either use an on-screen calculator or bring their own approved model. This is a change from the paper version, which had a no-calculator math portion.
- Shorter Reading Passages: Gone are the days of long, dense reading passages. The digital SAT now includes shorter, focused excerpts, each accompanied by a single question, which helps reduce reading fatigue and makes the section feel more manageable.
The New Digital ACT: What’s Changing?
Starting in April 2025, the ACT will also offer a digital format in the United States. Here’s how the new digital ACT compares:
- Total Test Duration: The digital ACT will be shortened to about 2 hours for the core sections (English, Math, and Reading), similar to the digital SAT.
- Sections: The core test includes English, Math, and Reading, with an optional Science section and Writing (essay) section that can be added if the student chooses.
- English: 50 questions in 35 minutes (shortened from 75 questions).
- Math: 45 questions in 50 minutes (reduced from 60 questions).
- Reading: 36 questions in 40 minutes (reduced from 40 questions).
- Optional Science Section: The ACT’s signature Science section, which tests students’ ability to interpret graphs and scientific data (rather than scientific knowledge), will become optional. Students can choose whether to include it, making the test more customizable to their strengths.
- Optional Writing Section: The ACT will continue to offer an optional essay section that students can choose if they wish to showcase their writing skills.
- Calculator Usage: The ACT allows calculators throughout the entire Math section, unlike the old paper SAT, which previously restricted calculator usage on some parts. However, unlike the SAT, the ACT’s Math section is not split into modules and remains a consistent format throughout.
- Consistent Difficulty (Non-Adaptive): Unlike the SAT’s adaptive model, the digital ACT will maintain the same difficulty level across the test. This means all students will receive questions of similar difficulty, regardless of their performance during the test.
Digital vs. Paper Format: Flexibility and Choice
Both tests now offer digital options, but their implementation differs:
- Digital SAT: The SAT is completely digital as of 2024, and students can take it on personal devices like laptops and tablets, which provides flexibility. There are no longer any paper-based options.
- Digital ACT: The digital ACT will roll out starting in April 2025 but will require students to take it at approved testing centers using the center’s computers. The paper version will remain available until September 2025, after which both versions will follow the same shorter, modified structure. This means students have the flexibility to choose the format that suits them best.
Key Differences: SAT vs. ACT
Here’s a quick comparison to help highlight the main differences:
| Feature | Digital SAT | Digital ACT |
|---|---|---|
| Test Length | ~2 hours | ~2 hours |
| Sections | Reading & Writing, Math | English, Math, Reading (+ Optional Science & Writing) |
| Question Count | 98 total | ~131 total for core sections |
| Adaptive Format | Yes (adaptive modules) | No (consistent difficulty) |
| Calculator Use | Entire Math section (optional) | Entire Math section |
| Test Location | At home on personal devices | At approved testing centers |
Which Test Should Your Child Take?
Deciding between the SAT and ACT comes down to your child’s strengths and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Comfortable with Adaptive Testing? The digital SAT’s adaptive nature might suit students who are quick to adapt and perform well under changing difficulty levels.
- Prefers Consistency? The ACT’s non-adaptive format keeps the test experience uniform, which may reduce test anxiety for students who prefer consistency.
- Strong in Science? The ACT still offers a (now optional) Science section, which could play to your child’s strengths if they excel in data analysis.
- Test Location Flexibility: If accessing an approved testing center is challenging, the SAT might be more convenient as it can be taken on a personal device.
Try Practice Tests First
The best way to make a decision is to have your child take practice tests for both exams. This allows them to experience the test format firsthand and see which one feels more comfortable. Practice tests are also a great way to reduce SAT anxiety and test anxiety, as familiarity with the format can make a huge difference on test day.
Stay Tuned for More Updates!
No matter which test your child chooses, this blog is here to help with tips and strategies to maximize their performance and minimize stress. As both tests evolve, staying informed is key, and I’ll be here to provide the latest advice and resources. Whether your child opts for the digital SAT or the new ACT, I’ll help ensure they feel confident and prepared.