SAT, ACT, or A-Levels: Which Test Do You Really Need for Admission?

If you’re aiming to study overseas, one of the very first questions you’ll face is: which exam should I take — SAT, ACT, or A-levels? The choice you make will shape not only how you prepare and how long it takes, but also your actual chances of getting into your dream school. In the U.S., SAT and ACT are the go-to standardized tests. In the UK and several other countries, students usually apply with A-levels, which are subject-based high school qualifications.

In this article, we’ll break down:

• how SAT and ACT are different,
• what A-levels are and who they’re for,
• what “test-optional” really means (and why it matters),
• practical tips on picking the right exam for your study-abroad plans.

Contents:

• SAT and ACT: the key tests for U.S. colleges
• A-levels: the classic route into UK universities
• Practical tips: how to choose the exam that fits you best?

SAT and ACT: the key tests for U.S. colleges

Understanding the difference between these two can save you a lot of time — and help you play to your strengths.

• SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test): This is the best-known admissions test in the U.S., but it’s also accepted in places like Hong Kong, Singapore, Turkey, and Japan. It’s designed to measure both your knowledge of high school subjects (mainly math and English) and your ability to think critically and analyze information.
• ACT (American College Testing): Another big player in U.S. admissions. The ACT looks a lot like the SAT on the surface, but it leans more heavily into science and data interpretation, while the SAT puts a stronger spotlight on reasoning and problem-solving.

Main differences between SAT and ACT:

1. Test sections:

• SAT: Reading & Writing + Math
• ACT: English, Math, Reading, Science, plus an optional Essay

2. Duration:

• SAT: 2 hours 14 minutes
• ACT: 2 hours 55 minutes (without the essay) or 3 hours 40 minutes (with essay)

3. Scoring:

• SAT: 400–1600 points
• ACT: 1–36 composite score

4. Number of questions:

• SAT: 154
• ACT: 215

5. Time per question (on average):

• SAT: about 1 minute 10 seconds
• ACT: about 49 seconds

6. Format:

• SAT: digital only
• ACT: digital or paper-based

What does “test-optional” mean?

After the pandemic, a huge number of U.S. colleges introduced test-optional policies. In simple terms, this means you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores when you apply. But “optional” doesn’t equal “useless.” A solid SAT or ACT score can still help you stand out — whether that’s in admissions or when applying for scholarships.

And here’s the twist: some top schools, including Harvard, have already started rolling back the test-optional era. In practice, that can mean anything from flat-out requiring SAT/ACT again to strongly favoring applicants who submit them. If you want to check which U.S. universities currently require SAT/ACT, there are updated lists online from admissions organizations and test providers.

SAT vs. ACT: which one fits you better?

• SAT is a good fit if you’re stronger in math and critical thinking, and you prefer a slightly slower pace with more time to work through each question.
• ACT might be your match if you’re quick on your feet, enjoy reading and interpreting data, and don’t mind juggling a heavier question load under time pressure.

A-levels: the classic route into UK universities

A-levels (Advanced Level) are a two-year high school program in the UK designed specifically as a stepping stone into university. Students usually pick three or four subjects and study them in depth before taking final exams that carry a lot of weight in admissions decisions.

For international students, there’s also International A-levels, offered at accredited schools around the world or through online programs. These are widely accepted not just by UK universities but also in countries like Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, and parts of Europe.

Why A-levels can be a great choice?

• In-depth subject focus — you dive deep into the subjects that really matter for your chosen degree (think Biology + Chemistry for medicine, or Math + Physics for engineering).
• Recognition worldwide — UK universities build their entry requirements around A-levels, and many institutions abroad accept them too.
• Academic skills for life — A-levels train you in essay writing, research, independent study, and critical thinking — skills you’ll keep using well beyond college.

The flip side: what to be ready for?

• Time commitment — A-levels take two full years: the first year (AS level) plus the second (A2, the advanced part).
• Subject choice really matters — pick the wrong combination and you may close doors to certain degrees. For example, medicine without Chemistry is basically a no-go.
• Cost and logistics — not every country has schools offering A-levels. That may mean enrolling in a British or international school, or going the online route (which can vary a lot in quality and price).

For more details, check out our article Understanding A-Levels: Your Pathway to a UK University.

Practical tips: how to choose the exam that fits you best

1. Pin down the country and university you want to attend

• U.S. — the main exams are SAT or ACT. Almost all American universities accept both, so the choice really comes down to your strengths.
• UK and Commonwealth countries — A-levels remain the standard qualification.
• Other countries — some programs in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and parts of Europe accept either route: A-levels or SAT/ACT. It all depends on the specific university and program.

2. Check the requirements of individual universities and programs

Even within one country, universities can differ a lot. In the U.S., some schools have brought back mandatory tests, while others stick with test-optional policies. In the UK, different programs ask for different A-level subjects (e.g., Medicine requires Biology + Chemistry, Engineering typically requires Mathematics + Physics).

Always double-check the official university websites to make sure you know exactly what’s required.

3. Consider your learning style

• If you’re comfortable with a fast pace and covering a wide range of topics, ACT may be your best fit.
• If you excel in analytics, reading, and math, and prefer more time per question, SAT might suit you better.
• If you like diving deep into subjects and are willing to invest two years in thorough preparation, A-levels could be the optimal choice.

Still have questions?

The specialists at ED-EX.com can guide you every step of the way — from choosing the country, university, and exam format to preparing your application documents.

You can request an individual consultation anytime:

— directly in your personal account,

— on the page of your chosen university,

— or by emailing us at support@ed-ex.com.