If you’re a parent navigating today’s college admissions process, you’ve probably wondered: Should my teen take the SAT, ACT, or skip testing altogether? With many schools now test-optional—and some highly selective colleges reinstating requirements—it can feel overwhelming to know what’s best. Understanding the differences between the SAT and ACT, and how schools are handling them, will help you guide your teen confidently.
The SAT: Now Fully Digital
The SAT has gone through a significant transformation. Since 2024, it has been entirely digital and uses an adaptive format, adjusting the difficulty of questions based on student performance. The new SAT takes just over two hours, shorter than the old paper version, and features:
- A built-in calculator for all math questions
- Shorter reading passages with a single question each
Teens who are comfortable with technology and digital pacing may find the SAT more approachable than ever.
The ACT: An Enhanced Digital Option
The ACT launched an enhanced digital version in April 2025. Key updates include:
- A shorter format with more time per question
- The optional science section, previously a distinguishing feature
- Digital convenience with predictable pacing
For students who prefer consistency over adaptive testing, the ACT may remain the better fit, particularly if they want to avoid the science section.
Comparing the SAT and ACT
Even though both tests are digital, key differences remain:
- Adaptive vs steady difficulty: SAT adapts; ACT maintains a steady level.
- Test length: SAT is slightly shorter overall; ACT trims nearly an hour from its older format.
- Math: The SAT allows calculator use on all problems; the ACT rules remain unchanged.
- Content: ACT still includes science (optional); SAT does not.
- Essays: Both tests have eliminated the essay requirement.
Which Test Fits Your Teen?
The best choice depends on your teen’s learning style and academic strengths:
- Comfortable with technology? SAT may be easier.
- Prefer predictable pacing? ACT could be a better fit.
- Strong in science? Consider keeping the ACT science section; otherwise, it is optional.
Tip: Have your teen try practice versions of both tests. Experiencing timing, format, and flow firsthand helps make an informed decision.
Testing Trends for 2025 and 2026
Even with test-optional policies rising, testing remains relevant:
- Over 80% of U.S. four-year colleges are test-optional or test-free
- Selective schools reinstating requirements: Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Brown, MIT (2025), Stanford (2026), Penn, Cornell, Georgetown, Caltech, UT-Austin
- Georgia universities requiring scores for fall 2026: Georgia Southern, Augusta, Georgia State, Kennesaw State
Even if your teen targets test-optional schools, testing can boost admissions chances and scholarship opportunities.
Guidance for Parents
- Check each school’s testing policies—they vary widely.
- Encourage early testing to allow retakes if needed.
- Practice in a digital format to prepare for the real test environment.
- Stay updated on policy changes to avoid surprises.
The decision between the SAT and ACT is not one-size-fits-all. By aligning your teen’s testing strategy with their strengths and school requirements, you’ll help reduce stress and keep more options open.
Next Step
Want a step-by-step plan for testing, applications, scholarships, and beyond? Join my Info Session: How 30 Minutes Can Save You $30K in College Costs. Get guidance, clarity, and actionable strategies to help your teen succeed.
