SAT vs ACT: Which Test Should You Take?
If you’re applying to college in 2025, you’ve likely wondered: Should I take the SAT or the ACT?
What matters most is choosing the one that aligns best with your strengths and test-taking style.
SAT: Best for Strong Readers and Strategic Thinkers
The SAT emphasizes:
Reading comprehension and evidence-based reasoning
Data analysis and graph interpretation in both reading and math
More time per question, but more complex passages and wording
This test works well for students who prefer to read carefully, think critically, and work through layered questions.
ACT: Best for Fast Thinkers and Straightforward Test-Takers
The ACT focuses on:
A faster pace with more direct questions
A dedicated science section (focused on data interpretation, not science facts)
More geometry and trigonometry in the math section
It suits students who can manage time well, prefer clear language, and are comfortable with quicker decision-making.
How to Decide
Take a full-length practice test of both. Compare your scores and how each test felt. Did you run out of time? Which one felt more natural?
Use free online score converters to see which test gives you the higher equivalent score.
Look at colleges' testing policies. Many are still test-optional or test-flexible in 2025, so it's worth checking each school’s latest requirements.
Bonus Tip: Not All Students Need to Submit Scores
Many top colleges remain test-optional, meaning strong essays, grades, and activities can still carry your application, even without test scores. However, if your SAT or ACT score is a strength, it can boost your profile.
Need help deciding which test is best for you, and how to prep for it?
Fill out the Inquiry Form or DM Success Admissions Now to get personalized test prep guidance and strategy support.
