If you’re looking to convert your SAT scores to ACT scores, here is an approximate SAT to ACT score conversion chart. This will give you an idea of how your SAT scores might translate into ACT scores, and vice versa. Keep in mind that these conversions are estimates since the tests measure different things and have slightly different formats.
SAT to ACT Score Conversion Chart (Approximate)
| SAT Total Score (Out of 1600) | ACT Composite Score |
| 1600 | 36 |
| 1550 | 35 |
| 1520 | 34 |
| 1480 | 33 |
| 1450 | 32 |
| 1410 | 31 |
| 1380 | 30 |
| 1340 | 29 |
| 1310 | 28 |
| 1270 | 27 |
| 1230 | 26 |
| 1200 | 25 |
| 1160 | 24 |
| 1130 | 23 |
| 1090 | 22 |
| 1060 | 21 |
| 1030 | 20 |
| 990 | 19 |
| 960 | 18 |
| 930 | 17 |
| 900 | 16 |
| 870 | 15 |
| 840 | 14 |
| 810 | 13 |
| 780 | 12 |
Key Points:
- SAT Total Score: The SAT total score ranges from 400 to 1600, combining Math (800 max) and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) (800 max).
- ACT Composite Score: The ACT composite score ranges from 1 to 36, calculated by averaging your scores from the English, Math, Reading, and Science sections.
Important Notes:
- Conversion is Approximate: The conversion chart gives you a good ballpark idea, but because the tests are different, it is not a precise 1-to-1 equivalence. For example, the ACT has a Science section, which does not directly correlate to a specific section of the SAT.
- Test Structure Differences: The ACT is more of a direct test of your knowledge in specific areas (English, Math, Reading, Science) with a focus on speed and critical thinking. The SAT, however, emphasizes reasoning and vocabulary, especially in the reading and writing sections.
- Choosing Between the Tests: If you’re unsure which test to take, you might want to take a practice test for both the ACT and SAT to see which one feels more comfortable or plays to your strengths.
Conversion for Score Reporting:
- Some colleges may allow you to submit scores from both tests (the ACT and SAT) to see which one you performed better on. The conversion helps when you’re comparing how your scores from one test could align with scores from the other test.
If you’re planning to apply to colleges and need further help understanding how your scores might impact your application, feel free to ask! I can also help you with tips for improving your score in specific sections.
Confused about your SAT and ACT scores? Visit Mathematical Space for expert resources, personalized tutoring, and more.
