Technically more colleges will accept the ACT more than the SAT. However, at the most elite colleges it is about the same as long as you take the ACT with writing (this service is extra) and probably the SAT is preferred a little more at the top 10 schools. The ACT tests you on material that is taught in typical high schools. Whereas, the SAT test you on your potential to grasp material, not necessarily already taught to you. Sort of like an IQ test, but still adhering to the traditional high school material: Reading, Writing, English, and Mathematics.

I agree with luvurself except for a couple of things I want to add. The SAT I (the reasoning test) doesn’t have the exact same things as the ACT since there is no science section and the writing section with the essay is mandatory. The math section in the ACT contains trigonometry and is multiple choice only while the SAT has no trig questions and includes some grid-in questions. Also, the ACT tests English grammar. Another difference is the way the tests are scored. On the SAT, points are deducted from the overall score for every wrong answer, which means that you need to be careful about guessing randomly. On the ACT there is no guessing penalty so it’s best to fill in all the answers. Neither the SAT nor ACT is easier or better so you have to decide based on your skills and test taking style. You can always take free practice tests online if you are still not sure. Most colleges/universities accept both tests but colleges in the mid-west tend to favor the ACT while those on in the east and west coasts prefer the SAT.

They are administered by two different groups. The ACT has more sections than the SAT-I, but they are pretty similar. Both are accepted by nearly every college. Just take whichever is easier for you to sign up for. The ACT is favored in the South, Midwest, and Rocky Mountain regions, and the SAT on the West Coast and in the Northeast.

They are similar tests but scored slightly differently. People that are better at math do better on the SAT and people that are better in English and writing do better on the ACT. Also, the ACT score converts to a SAT score and many people do better on it that way.

If you are applying to competitive schools you should take both tests. I took mine in 2001-2002 and it is much more competitive now. I’m better in reading/writing and my ACT score translated to an SAT score that was like 200 point higher.