Comparison of the SAT and ACT Tests | Landmark School

Comparison of the SAT and ACT Tests

Most colleges accept both SAT and ACT test scores. Use this comparison of the two tests to decide which is best for your or your student.

	SAT I	ACT
General Information	Test length: three hours (plus 50 minutes for optional essay) Students can apply for and be granted up to 100% extended time Two required sections (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Math) One optional section (essay)	Test length: three hours, 25 min Students can apply for and be granted up to 50% extended time Four required sections (English, Math, Reading, and Science) Optional and recommended writing test.
Scores	Score in each subject area can range from 200–800 Total score range is from 400–1,600 Score of 6–24 for essay	Score of 1–36 for each test section Composite score of 1–36 based on average score of the four test sections
Incorrect Answer	No deduction for incorrect answers	No deduction for incorrect answers
Content	Evidence Based-Reading and Writing Math: Arithmetic Through Trigonometry (there is a "no calculator" section)	Reading Comprehension English Math: Arithmetic Through Trigonometry Science Optional Essay
Essay	Optional Last section of the test Scored on Reading, Analysis, and Writing Scored on a scale of 2–8 on each of these areas	Optional Final section of the test Not included in composite score Topic is generally important to high school students
Notes	Landmark generally administers the SAT in fall of senior year and spring of junior year. Landmark will help submit documentation for testing accommodations but final decisions are made the College Board.	Landmark generally administers the ACT in fall of senior year and spring of junior year Landmark will help submit documentation for testing accommodations but final decisions are made by the ACT.

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