Writing standardized tests like the SAT or ACT has been a defining feature of college applications in America for several decades now. Students have the opportunity to show their capabilities in a way that can be more accurately compared with other applicants.
So, what happens when you want to compare an SAT score to an ACT score? Obviously, the two tests use different scales. The ACT is out of 36, while SAT scores can range from 400-1600. This can create a bit of confusion; students are often unsure how exactly one score can be measured against the other.
Fortunately, there’s a way to get an accurate representation of where each score should roughly be when converted to the other scale. Although ACT to SAT conversion isn’t perfect, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a baseline to get a general idea of where you stand should you write the other test.
Without further delay, let’s get into how you can convert your ACT and SAT scores.
When comparing scores, always keep in mind that the ACT and SAT are different tests that assess unique areas of knowledge. The ACT is more focused on testing material that is closely aligned with your high school courses. On the other hand, the SAT addresses general aspects of verbal as well as quantitative reasoning.
| ACT Composite Score | SAT Score Range |
|---|---|
| 36 | 1600 |
| 35 | 1540-1590 |
| 34 | 1490-1530 |
| 33 | 1440-1480 |
| 32 | 1400-1430 |
| 31 | 1360-1390 |
| 30 | 1330-1350 |
| 29 | 1290-1320 |
| 28 | 1250-1280 |
| 27 | 1210-1240 |
| 26 | 1170-1200 |
| 25 | 1130-1160 |
| 24 | 1090-1120 |
| 23 | 1050-1080 |
|---|---|
| 22 | 1020-1040 |
| 21 | 980-1010 |
| 20 | 940-970 |
| 19 | 900-930 |
| 18 | 860-890 |
| 17 | 820-850 |
| 16 | 770-810 |
| 15 | 720-760 |
| 14 | 670-710 |
| 13 | 620-660 |
| 12 | 560-610 |
| 11 | 510-550 |
Source: ACT
Since your final SAT score can’t be lower than 400, the table doesn’t extend to the full range of scores.
As you can see from the table above, the range for SAT scores is quite large and doesn’t change in consistent increments. This is because it’s difficult to get exact conversions for tests that assess different areas of knowledge and have very different scales. Nonetheless, the chart gives you an idea of how scores can compare.
It’s important to remember that conversion, SAT to ACT scores, is not all defining. Just because you have a certain score on one test doesn’t mean you’re guaranteed to score the equivalent on the other test. Performing well on the ACT and SAT is a matter of hard work and commitment, and preparing for one isn't a substitute for the other.
When using an ACT to SAT converter, try to use an SAT score that’s roughly in the middle of the range provided. This ensures that you don’t overestimate or underestimate your score when changing from the ACT to the SAT scale. You’ll find that even though the ACT and SAT are distinct tests, you can get accurate comparisons.
When deciding if you should write the ACT or the SAT, it’s a good idea to consider your strengths and weaknesses. The ACT is unique from the SAT in that it has a science section and tests trigonometry knowledge. In contrast, the SAT has a mandatory writing section. Furthermore, the SAT discourages guessing, unlike the ACT.
Both tests will take you around the same amount of time, even though they have a different total number of questions. While the ACT contains 215 questions, the SAT only has 154. Keep in mind that these questions can take longer to answer, so the SAT isn’t easier by any means.
Students who excel in science should have an advantage with the ACT. If you find you prefer reasoning your way out of problems instead of memorizing answers beforehand, you may be more suited to the SAT. At any rate, you’ll still have to study and go through problem sets to prepare, so trying out a few can help you decide which is better.
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Still have questions about ACT to SAT conversion? Check out our expert answers below for more information!
A 20 ACT score translates to a 940-970 score on the SAT.
A 30 ACT converts to an SAT score of 1330-1350.
A 1550 SAT score is on the lower end of the 35 ACT range equivalent: 1540-1590.
A 27 is a great ACT score, as it is well above the 19.8 national average.
ACT to SAT conversion can sometimes be a tricky concept for students. When you’re provided with two completely different scales, it’s easy to get confused. Making sure to take a score that’s in the middle of the SAT range provided means you’ll have more accurate comparisons.
If you’re considering writing the ACT or SAT, it’s a good idea to have a clear understanding of each test. The knowledge base required for each one is somewhat different, so when you’re preparing you should try to think of where you feel you’d perform best. This way, when it comes time to apply for college, you’ll have the best possible score to submit.
Countless students are inundated with studying for the ACT and SAT. If you’re struggling and feel you need extra help, you should never hesitate to book a free consultation with our ACT and SAT experts. With a bit of hard work and practice, you’ll have a stellar score in no time.
