ACT vs SAT: Which Test Should You Take for Studying Abroad?

Choosing between the ACT and SAT is one of those big decisions students face when planning to study abroad. Both exams are accepted by thousands of universities worldwide, both assess college readiness, and both can help you win scholarships-so the real question is: which one matches your strengths better?

Students often feel stuck in the ACT vs SAT debate. The smart way to decide is to understand how each test works, how they differ, and which style suits you. This guide breaks everything down in a simple and practical way. Let’s get started.

What Is the ACT Exam?

The ACT is a college entrance exam widely used in the United States and accepted around the world. It tests four core areas:

• English
• Mathematics
• Reading
• Science

There’s also an optional Writing (Essay) section.

Your ACT composite score ranges from 1 to 36, which is the average of the four mandatory sections. Colleges use ACT scores to evaluate academic readiness, along with GPA, extracurricular activities, and essays. The presence of a dedicated Science section is a unique feature, making the ACT popular among students who are comfortable with data analysis.

For a deeper breakdown of test format, syllabus, scoring, and preparation strategies, explore my full ACT Exam blog.

What Is the SAT Exam?

SAT stands for Scholastic Assessment Test. The SAT is another globally recognised exam for undergraduate admissions in the United States and many other countries. It measures skills in: 

• Reading & Writing
• Mathematics

Each of the two sections is scored from 200 to 800, with a maximum total of 1600.

The SAT has recently shifted to a shorter, digital adaptive format-meaning the difficulty adjusts based on how you perform in the first module. This makes the test more personalised and concise.

Universities use SAT scores as one of their key assessment factors when evaluating applications.

Difference between ACT and SAT test

Here’s a simplified snapshot to help you understand how these exams differ:

Structure:

• SAT: Reading & Writing + Math
• ACT: English, Math, Reading, Science (+ optional Writing)

Duration:

• SAT: 2 hours 14 minutes
• ACT: 2 hours 45 minutes (3 hours 25 minutes with essay)

Science Section:

• SAT: No separate science section
• ACT: Dedicated Science section

Math Policy:

• SAT: Calculator allowed for all math questions
• ACT: Some questions restrict calculator use

Scoring:

• SAT: 400–1600
• ACT: 1–36

Mode of Test:

• SAT: Fully digital
• ACT: Available in digital + paper formats

Exam Format Breakdown

SAT Format

The SAT has two major sections:

• Reading & Writing
• Mathematics

It is a fully online exam, shorter than the ACT, and uses an adaptive question pattern.

ACT Format

The ACT includes:

• English
• Math
• Reading
• Science
• optional Writing

It’s available in both online and offline formats, making it convenient for students depending on their region.

Which Exam Is Easier: SAT or ACT?

Neither exam is universally easier-they simply suit different mindsets.

Choose the ACT if: You’re quick with reading and recall, can maintain speed under time pressure, and enjoy interpreting charts, experiments, and scientific data.

Choose the SAT if: You prefer deeper reading, need more time per question, enjoy analytical problem-solving, and feel comfortable with logic-based math.

The best way to decide is to take a full-length practice test for both exams. You’ll quickly notice which format feels more natural.

SAT vs ACT: How to Register?

ACT Exam Registration Steps:

Make your way through the following steps to register for the ACT exam:

• The first step is accessing ACT's official website and signing in.
• Enter the necessary information and carry out all of the steps.
• Pick your ACT center and date for the ACT exam and finalize the registration.
• Make the payment for the required fee for the registration process and send it. 

SAT Exam Registration Steps:

For the SAT exam registration process, please look at the following steps:

• First, the applicants need to log in to the College Board's website and sign in.
• Then the applicants should start registering for the SAT exam and filling out each detail as guided.
• The applicants will go through a few steps until they get to the ACT test center and date selection.
• At this point, the applicants will have the option to proceed to the payment for the fees after the test center and date selection.
• Once the payment is done, the registration for the SAT is confirmed

ACT and SAT Dates, Registration & Deadlines

Both exams are conducted multiple times a year.

SAT Test Date, Registration & Deadlines Changes, Regular Cancellation, and Late Registration: 

• Aug. 23, 2025,  Registration Deadline: Aug. 8, 2025; Change/Late Registration Deadline: Aug. 12, 2025
• Sept. 13, 2025, Registration Deadline: Aug. 29, 2025; Change/Late Registration Deadline: Sept. 2, 2025
• Oct. 4, 2025, Registration Deadline: Sept. 19, 2025; Change/Late Registration Deadline: Sept. 23, 2025
• Nov. 8, 2025, Registration Deadline: Oct. 24, 2025; Change/Late Registration Deadline: Oct. 28, 2025
• Dec. 6, 2025, Registration Deadline: Nov. 21, 2025; Change/Late Registration Deadline: Nov. 25, 2025
• March 14, 2026, Registration Deadline: Feb. 27, 2026; Change/Late Registration Deadline: March 3, 2026
• May 2, 2026, Registration Deadline: Apr. 17, 2026; Change/Late Registration Deadline: April 21, 2026
• June 6, 2026, Registration Deadline: May 22, 2026; Change/Late Registration Deadline: May 26, 2026

 ACT: Test Date, Registration & Deadlines

Want to know the ACT dates, registration process, and deadlines? Click here to read our detailed ACT blog.

 Timings and Section Duration

Understanding pacing is key to deciding your exam:

The ACT is faster, with tighter time limits. The SAT gives more breathing room per question.

ACT vs SAT Costs

SAT Fees:

• Base exam fee: $68
• Change center fee: $34
• Canceling your registration fee: $34
• Late registration: $38
• Late cancellation fee for registration: $44

ACT Fees:

• ACT without writing: $68
• Writing Add-On Fee: $25
• Science Add-On Fee: $4
• Standby testing (In such cases, you will be refunded if, on the day of the test, cancellation of your registration was because you did not provide a photo, or if you were not allowed admittance to the test center.): $72 
• Change Fee ( Includes changing the test form, test date, or test center): $48
• Score Verification: $ 67 for MCQ, $67 for writing, $ 134 for both

Fee waivers are available for eligible students.

ACT and SAT scores

SAT

• Each section: 200–800
• Total score: 400–1600
• Benchmarks: Reading & Writing 480, Math 530 reported

ACT

• Each section: 1–36
• Composite score: average of 4 sections
• General interpretation: Scores 1-16 below average, 17-24 avg, 25-36 above avg range now

Which Test Should You Take?

Ask yourself:

• Do you read quickly and handle pressure well? → ACT
• Do you prefer thinking over speed? → SAT
• Do you enjoy scientific reasoning? → ACT
• Do you want more time per question? → SAT

If you’ve attempted both exams, simply submit the one with the higher score. Colleges don’t prefer one over the other.

And if you’re targeting top universities like Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, both exams are accepted equally.

Which Test Do Foreign Universities Prefer?

Universities abroad-whether in the US, UK, Canada, Singapore, or Europe-do not prefer SAT over ACT or vice versa. Both are treated the same.

Your goal should be to choose the exam that reflects your strengths best.

How to Prepare for SAT or ACT

Smart preparation makes a world of difference. Here’s how to plan:

• Start by choosing your test. Compare formats + take a diagnostic test.
• Select a test date. Aim for 3–6 months of preparation time.
• Set a target score. Look up the score ranges of colleges you want to apply to.
• Follow a structured prep plan. Use prep books, online courses, mock tests, and—if possible—personal tutoring.
• Take your second attempt soon after the first. You’ll retain momentum and improve quickly.

Conclusion

The ACT and SAT both open doors to top universities around the world. The key is to pick the exam that aligns with your thinking style, speed, and academic strengths. Once you understand both formats and test yourself honestly, the choice becomes much clearer.

Whichever test you choose, consistency and strategy will shape your success. From here, you can move into focused preparation and take a step closer to your study-abroad goals.