SAT vs. ACT: Which Test Is Better for International Students?

If you're an international student dreaming of studying in the United States, chances are you’ve encountered two acronyms more than once: SAT and ACT. These standardized tests have long been gatekeepers to U.S. college admissions, serving as one of the ways universities assess your readiness for college-level work.

But with two different exams to choose from, you might be asking: Which one should I take? Which is better for international students like me?Let’s break it down.

What Are the SAT and ACT?

Both the SAT and ACT are standardized tests used by colleges and universities across the United States to evaluate applicants. While some schools have moved to test-optional policies, many still accept or encourage submission of test scores — especially from international students, for whom grades and school systems can vary widely.

Both exams are accepted by all U.S. colleges that require standardized testing, so choosing one over the other won’t hurt your application. But understanding their differences — and how they play to your strengths — can help you make a smart choice.

Basic Structure Comparison

Here’s a quick overview of how the two tests compare:

Feature	SAT	ACT
Duration	~2 hours 14 minutes	~2 hours 55 minutes (3 hours 35 mins with Essay – now mostly retired)
Sections	Reading, Writing & Language, Math (Calculator & Non-Calculator)	English, Math, Reading, Science
Optional Essay	Discontinued	Discontinued in most places
Scoring	400–1600	1–36
Science Section	No	Yes
Calculator Use	Only on one Math section	Allowed on entire Math section

What Makes the SAT Friendly for International Students

✅ Simpler language in reading passagesThe SAT tends to use slightly more formal and academic texts, but the sentence structure and vocabulary are often more straightforward for non-native English speakers compared to the ACT, which can include conversational language and regional idioms.

✅ No dedicated science sectionFor students who aren’t confident in interpreting charts, graphs, and scientific jargon, the SAT might feel less intimidating. Instead of a separate science section, the SAT integrates data interpretation into its reading and math components.

✅ More time per questionInternational test-takers often need extra time to read and process questions in English. The SAT gives you slightly more time per question, making it better suited for test-takers who read more slowly in English.

What Makes the ACT Attractive for International Students

✅ Faster, straightforward questionsWhile the ACT is more fast-paced, its questions tend to be shorter and more direct. If your English comprehension is strong and you prefer a quick pace, this might be a plus.

✅ More math coveredThe ACT covers a broader range of math topics (including some basic trigonometry and matrices), which can benefit students from strong STEM high school programs. Also, a calculator is allowed on the entire math section — a small but comforting bonus.

✅ Science section ≠ science knowledgeAlthough there is a dedicated “Science” section, the ACT doesn’t test your science knowledge. It measures how well you can analyze charts, graphs, and data. Students who are good at logical reasoning and interpreting visuals may actually find this section enjoyable.

English Language Skills: A Key Factor

One of the most critical factors for international students is English proficiency.

• If you're still building your English skills and worry about fast-paced reading, the SAT is likely the safer choice.

• If you're confident in English and like efficiency, the ACT may give you the edge.

Also, note that both tests include grammar and usage questions, so familiarity with American English conventions is helpful. If you've taken the TOEFL or IELTS, you're already building the skills needed for either test.

Score Reporting and College Preferences

You might wonder if colleges prefer one test over the other. The answer? No. Every U.S. college that requires or accepts standardized tests accepts both the SAT and ACT equally. Admissions committees have been trained to interpret both scoring systems fairly.

What matters more is how well you perform. It's better to submit a strong score from one test than an average score from both.

Additionally, many schools superscore, meaning they combine your best scores from different test dates — but some only do this for the SAT. This is worth checking for your target schools.

Accessibility & Testing Locations

Both the SAT and ACT are offered multiple times per year internationally, but test center availability can vary by country and city.

• The SAT is administered by the College Board, and tends to have broader international reach.

• The ACT has also expanded globally, but may offer fewer dates or centers in some regions.

Make sure to register early, especially if you’re testing in a smaller city or during busy application seasons.

Which Test Should You Take?

Here are a few simple guidelines:

Choose the SAT if:

• You prefer having more time per question

• You’re more comfortable with straightforward math and no science

• Your English reading speed isn’t lightning-fast

• You want to avoid interpreting data-heavy visuals

Choose the ACT if:

• You’re good at time management and quick reading

• You enjoy or are confident in interpreting graphs and charts

• You like short, direct questions

• You want to use a calculator throughout the math section

Pro Tip: Try Both!

One of the best ways to decide is to take a full-length practice test for both the SAT and ACT under timed conditions. Compare how you felt, how you scored, and which test suited your learning style better.

Plenty of free practice tests are available online — and IvyEdvantage can help interpret your results to guide your decision.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the SAT and ACT doesn’t have to be stressful. As an international student, the best test for you is the one where you feel most confident, in control, and prepared.

Both tests can open the doors to incredible academic opportunities in the U.S., and with proper guidance, you can make the right choice and succeed — no matter which path you take.