Published: March 16, 2023
Recent changes to the SAT launched a critical difference between the SAT and ACT. In January 2022 College Board announced that the SAT test will transition to a digital format while the ACT remains a pencil-and-paper exam.
The new SAT will:
- be entirely digital.
- be shorter (approximately two hours instead of three) with more time per question.
- be adaptive, with performance on early questions determining the level of difficulty in later questions.
- have shorter reading passages with one question per passage.
- allow calculators for the entirety of the math section.
College Board cites the following expected positive outcomes with the digital SAT:
- The new test is easier to administer. Educators will no longer have to pack, sort and ship test materials.
- Shorter and easier-to-administer tests will result in greater flexibility for when, where, and how often schools and test sites administer the exam.
- More tests can be administered for free.
- Scores will be returned within days, instead of weeks.
- Greater test security. Every student receives a unique digital test.
When do changes take place?
- Fall 2023 for all PSAT and international students.
- Spring 2024 for U.S. students.
Other Differences: SAT vs. ACT:
| SAT | ACT | |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Reading Writing & Language Math | Reading English Math Science Essay (optional) |
| Length | 3 hours | 2 hours 55 minutes (with no essay) |
| Reading | 5 passages, 65 minutes, 52 questions | 4 passages, 35 minutes, 40 questions |
| English/Writing | 35 minutes, 44 questions | 45 minutes, 75 questions |
| Science | None | 35 minutes, 40 questions |
| Math | No calculator section: 25 minutes, 20 questions Calculator section: 55 minutes, 38 questions Concepts tested: Algebra I & II Geometry Trigonometry Data Analysis Formula sheet provided | 60 minutes, 60 questions Concepts tested: Algebra I & II Geometry Trigonometry Probability Statistics No formula sheet |
| Calculator | Includes a ‘no calculator’ section | Calculators allowed |
| Scoring | Scored on a scale of 400 - 1600 | Scale off 1 - 36 |
“The ACT is a very fast-paced test,” says neuroeducation specialist and experienced tutor Daniel Riseman. “The ACT takes more time to prepare a student because of the restricted timed conditions. A lot of practice is required to prep for the pace of the test. Students who process information quickly and like science may enjoy the challenge of the ACT.”
What’s the best way to determine the right test for you? Take a timed, full-length practice SAT and ACT test. Contact Vanessa and Sarah at Prep Academy Tutors to learn more.