ACT vs. SAT: FAQs Answered by Ivy Link
How do you know if you should take the ACT or the SAT? Which is better? What do colleges want to see? Do you even have to take either test this year?
Our expert tutors at Ivy Link field these questions all the time. The truth is, both tests are viewed equally by college admissions officers. That said, depending on where you live or what your school emphasizes, you might feel pressure to take one over the other—or assume that one is “easier.” But assumptions can be costly.
Here are some key points to know about your best options when it comes to standardized testing in 2025:
How can a student decide which test to take?
A huge mistake students make is never trying both tests. Even though colleges accept both the SAT and ACT, the structure, pacing, and question style differ enough that one may suit you better than the other. The best way to decide? Take both an SAT and an ACT diagnostic test before committing to a prep plan.
At Ivy Link, every student starts with this process. If the scores are similar, we walk through additional factors—reading stamina, time pressure, math confidence, and calculator use—to guide students toward the test where they’re most likely to succeed.
What are the differences between the SAT and the ACT—especially with the 2025 updates?
The SAT (2025 version):
Now fully digital and adaptive, with the second section adjusting difficulty based on the first.
Shorter overall: about 2 hours and 14 minutes.
Emphasizes reading comprehension across all sections, including math.
Has a No-Calculator Math section—but also allows use of an on-screen Desmos calculator for other math questions.
Prioritizes algebra and word-based math problems; more complex vocabulary is embedded into reading questions.
The ACT (Enhanced 2025 version):
Newly redesigned format: 2 hours long, 44 fewer questions, and more time per question.
Science section is now optional; the composite score is based only on English, Math, and Reading.
All Math questions now have 4 answer choices instead of 5.
Maintains a faster pace—students often feel more time pressure here.
The Enhanced ACT launches online in April 2025 and on paper in September 2025.
How important is practice for these tests? And how long should students prepare?
Practice remains the most important part of any testing plan. Students aiming for top scores typically complete:
10 full-length, proctored practice tests before sitting for the actual SAT or ACT
Another 4–6 practice tests before any retake
And spread this out across 6 to 10 months of preparation
It’s not just about content review—it’s about building stamina, mastering pacing, and knowing what to expect on test day.
Should students still take these tests if so many schools are test-optional?
Yes—if your score is strong enough to support your application.
Test-optional does not mean test-blind. Colleges still review and reward competitive scores, especially when they reinforce a strong GPA or help you stand out from similar applicants. Just like AP scores or leadership roles, they can elevate your profile even if they’re technically “optional.”
For students applying to Ivy League and Ivy Plus schools, a strong test score is still a valuable signal of academic readiness.
What’s the most important thing to understand before starting test prep?
Avoid choosing—or eliminating—a test without first trying both. Many students automatically focus on one test based on school trends, peer pressure, or assumptions. But without comparing actual results and formats, you might miss the chance to play to your strengths.
Take the time to get informed. Test smart—not just hard.
To schedule a diagnostic test and receive a customized prep plan based on the new 2025 formats, reach out to Ivy Link today.
