ACT vs. Digital SAT in 2025: What’s Changing—and Which Test Is Right for You?

Standardized testing is evolving—again. With the rollout of the fully Digital SAT and updates to the Enhanced ACT in 2025, students and families may find themselves asking, "Which test should I take now?"

These changes aren’t just cosmetic. The formats, pacing, and even the skills emphasized will look different. And for students hoping to stand out on college applications, understanding these updates is key. Below, we break down the major differences between the new ACT and SAT, and offer tips to help you choose the test that plays to your strengths.

Key Differences Between the Digital SAT and Enhanced ACT

While both the SAT and ACT remain accepted by nearly every U.S. college, they’re heading in slightly different directions in terms of how they assess students.

Test Format and Delivery

SAT: The SAT is now fully digital and adaptive. That means the questions you see in the second module of each section will depend on how you performed in the first. The test is taken on a computer or tablet, with tools like a built-in calculator and timer. It’s shorter than ever—just about 2 hours and 14 minutes total.

ACT (2025): The ACT is also going digital for most students, but won’t be adaptive. Instead, the 2025 Enhanced ACT introduces a modular format—students can take test sections (like English or Math) separately, on different days if they choose. This provides flexibility but can also mean longer overall prep time. The full ACT remains about 2 hours and 55 minutes, excluding breaks, but students don't have to take all sections.

Content Focus and Section Breakdown

SAT:

• Reading & Writing: Now combined into one section, with shorter passages and one question per passage.

• Math: Focuses heavily on algebra, word problems, and data analysis. Calculators are allowed throughout.

• No science section, and the essay was removed years ago.

ACT:

• English, Math, Reading, and Science remain as separate sections.

• The Science section is unique to the ACT and tests data interpretation and reasoning—not specific science knowledge... and it's now optional.

• Optional Writing (essay) section is still offered.

• Math includes some topics not covered on the SAT, like logarithms and matrices, but it's 100% multiple choice.

  

  
  

Scoring and Timing

SAT:

• Scored on a 1600-point scale: 800 for Reading & Writing, 800 for Math.

• You get more time per question than on the ACT.

ACT:

• Scored on a composite 36-point scale (average of all four sections).

• Known for being faster-paced, giving students less time per question—which can be challenging for slower readers or test-takers who need more processing time.

  
  

Which Test Is Right for You in 2025?

Choosing between the Digital SAT and Enhanced ACT depends on your strengths, your testing style, and how you learn best. One isn’t “easier” than the other—but one might be a better fit for you.

Here's the biggest reason why I still recommend the ACT: we have a plethora of study material available for it; the test content did not change. The SAT's content (their entire testing methodology, in fact) did change and we have less material.

Who Might Prefer the Digital SAT

• Students who benefit from more time per question and less overall test fatigue.

• Strong readers who like working with short passages and prefer grammar rules over content-based questions.

• Students who appreciate adaptive testing—those who tend to do better when the questions “match” their skill level.

Who Might Prefer the Enhanced ACT

• Quick processors who thrive under fast-paced, timed conditions.

• Students who like modular flexibility—you can now retake just the Math section, for example.

• STEM-focused students who want to showcase their reasoning skills on the Science section.

• Students who want the option of writing an essay (some schools still recommend or require it).

Practical Steps for Making Your Decision

1. Take full-length practice tests of both exams. You’ll quickly notice which test feels more natural.

2. Compare your scores—most online platforms or tutors can convert them to see which is stronger.

3. Check your colleges’ preferences, especially for merit scholarships. Some colleges superscore only SAT or only ACT.

4. Register early, and pay attention to how the ACT’s modular scheduling works in your area.

5. Stay informed—both testing organizations have newsletters and updates you can subscribe to.

6. Keep in mind, these updates are new for everyone. Practicing with the current digital SAT and the updated ACT modules will help you adapt quickly. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help or advice.

The good news? Colleges accept either the SAT or ACT—there’s no wrong choice. What matters most is choosing the one that lets you shine.

As both exams evolve in 2025, staying informed and preparing intentionally will set you up for success. Whether you’re team SAT or team ACT, planning ahead and practicing smart will help you reach your goals—and feel confident doing it.