Comparing the New Digital SAT to the ACT

By Irene Chung

With the introduction of the digital SAT, there have been significant changes to standardized testing. As a college counselor, it’s my role to help students and parents navigate these changes, understanding the differences between the digital SAT and the ACT, and deciding which exam to focus on. Let’s explore the updated formats, key differences, and strategies to help you make an informed decision.

Introducing the Digital SAT

The College Board has revamped the SAT to a digital format, making it shorter and more accessible. This change aims to better reflect the skills students need for college and beyond. The digital SAT can be taken on a computer and promises a more personalized testing experience and quicker results.

Key Changes in the Digital SAT

1. Format and Content: The digital SAT is now approximately two hours long, significantly shorter than the previous SAT and the current ACT. It continues to assess mathematical, reading, and writing skills but with a format adapted to a digital environment.
2. Adaptive Testing: One of the most significant changes is the introduction of adaptive testing. The difficulty of questions can adjust based on the test taker’s performance, aiming to provide a more accurate measurement of students’ abilities. Please keep in mind that the scoring algorithms account for the difficulty of each question.
3. Scoring and Sections: While the scoring scale for the digital SAT remains the same (400 to 1600), the structure accommodates the digital format’s flexibility. The test still evaluates Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math skills, but with a design meant to reduce stress and test-taking time.

The ACT in Comparison

The ACT has maintained its traditional paper-based format, with sections on English, Mathematics, Reading, Science, and an optional Writing (Essay) section. However, in February 2024, it started offering an online option at select locations nationwide. It’s known for its broad coverage, including a distinct science reasoning component. The ACT also has a more straightforward question style.

Digital SAT vs. ACT: Making the Choice

1. Content and Skills Assessment: Consider which subjects and skills are your strengths. If you prefer a test that includes science reasoning, the ACT might be more suitable. On the ACT, the math section accounts for a quarter of your score versus on the digital SAT, it accounts for half. The digital SAT, with its adaptive questions, may benefit students confident in their ability to handle a range of difficulties within reading, writing, and math.
2. Test Format: The digital format of the SAT offers a testing experience potentially more aligned with today’s digital learning environments. Students comfortable with digital exams and adaptive testing might lean towards the SAT.
3. Practice and Preparation: Take practice tests for both the digital SAT and the ACT. The College Board and ACT, Inc. provide resources for full-length practice tests.

Final Advice

The choice between the digital SAT and the ACT depends on your academic strengths and test-taking strategies. Early experimentation with both tests can provide clarity, allowing time for preparation. Remember, success on these tests is just one part of your college application; colleges consider a range of factors in their admissions decisions.