Which are the standardized tests to apply to US universities?

While in Peru, applicants typically take one admission test per university; in the U.S., you can apply to almost any university with a standardized test score. The most popular and widely accepted tests are the SAT and the ACT. These two tests are different, so it is important to understand each one to decide which is best for you.

What are the SAT and the ACT?

One of the principal differences is the format. The SAT is now entirely digital and “stage-adaptive,” which means your performance on the first module of a section determines the difficulty of the questions in the second module. However, the ACT remains a linear test and offers both digital and paper-and-pencil options in many locations.

More than 2 million students take the SAT every year worldwide.

— College Board

Key differences

Similarly, in sections like Reading and Writing, the SAT features very short passages with only one question per passage, while the ACT uses longer, multi-paragraph passages with multiple questions (9–10) per passage. Consequently, the SAT focuses heavily on “Words in Context” and “Command of Evidence,” whereas the ACT requires sustained focus and the ability to locate specific details in large texts.

In the Math section, the SAT allows you to use a calculator (Desmos) for the entire section and focuses deeply on Algebra and “Problem Solving and Data Analysis.” On the other hand, the ACT covers a broader range of topics, including significantly more Geometry and Trigonometry, and does not provide a formula sheet like the SAT does. Furthermore, in the SAT, the Math section accounts for half of your total score, while in the ACT, it is only one-third of your core score.

Another key difference is that the ACT has an optional Science section. The SAT might include some scientific charts and data analysis questions within its Reading and Math modules, but not as a full section like the ACT. For this reason, if you are strong in data interpretation and targeting STEM programs, taking the Science section of the ACT can highlight those skills.

Finally, there are small differences in timing and scoring. The SAT takes 2 hours and 14 minutes, while the ACT takes 2 hours (or 2.5 hours if you take the Science section). Regarding scoring, the SAT ranges from 400–1600, and the ACT ranges from 1–36.

Which one should you choose?

In brief, these two tests are different, and you should take whichever suits you best. If you prefer more time per question, are comfortable with an adaptive digital format, and have strong mental math and algebra skills, the SAT might be the best option. However, if you are a faster reader, prefer straightforward questions, and want the option to showcase your science and writing skills, you might consider taking the ACT. You can always take a practice test for each to make a final decision.