1230 SAT to ACT Score: What You Need to Know

So, you just got a 1230 on the SAT, and now you’re wondering—what does that mean if you’re thinking about the ACT instead? Whether you’re deciding which test to take next or just curious how your score compares, understanding the 1230 SAT to ACT conversion can give you some real clarity.

The two tests might look different on the surface, but there’s a reliable way to translate scores between them, and knowing where you stand can help you plan your next move confidently. Let’s break it down together and see what your 1230 SAT score really means in ACT terms.

• 1230 SAT to ACT: What’s the Equivalent Score?
• How Good Is Your 1230 SAT/26 ACT Score?
• SAT vs ACT: Which One Should You Take?
• How to Ace the SAT/ACT
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

1230 SAT to ACT: What’s the Equivalent Score?

According to the official ACT concordance charts, a 1230 SAT score lines up with an ACT score of about 26. Check out the full SAT-to-ACT conversion chart below to see how your scores stack up side by side:

This chart offers a quick and easy way to compare SAT scores with their ACT equivalents. Asterisks (*) highlight the suggested SAT scores to use when only one score needs to be matched.

How Good Is Your 1230 SAT/26 ACT Score?

A 1230 SAT or 26 ACT score sets you apart compared to students nationwide. But let’s break that down with some numbers.

1230 SAT percentile

For the SAT, scoring 1230 places you in the 84th percentile among 11th and 12th graders across the country. That means you scored higher than 84% of your peers.

Looking at the User Group Percentile (actual test-takers), a 1230 SAT puts you in the 80th percentile, meaning you outperformed 80% of SAT test-takers in recent years.

26 ACT percentile

Now, for the ACT, a 26 places you in the 86th percentile, indicating you performed better than 86% of 11th and 12th graders who took the test.

Is 1230 SAT/26 ACT enough for top schools?

You might wonder if a 1230 SAT or 26 ACT is enough for top-tier schools. Considering the average SAT score hovers around 1050 and the average ACT score is about 20, a 1230 SAT or 26 ACT puts you comfortably above those averages. With either score, you’re a strong candidate for many colleges.

However, if you’re aiming for Ivy League or similarly selective schools, aiming for higher scores might strengthen your application. Here’s a glimpse at the SAT and ACT score ranges typically expected at Ivy League universities:

So here’s the truth—while a 1230 SAT or its equivalent 26 ACT score is solid overall, it’s definitely below the usual range for Ivy League schools.

Most Ivy League students have scores starting around 1440 on the SAT or 32 on the ACT, so you’d be outside the typical range. That doesn’t mean it’s totally off the table, but based on test scores alone, your chances would be pretty slim.

That said, numbers aren’t everything. If you’ve got something extraordinary—like a standout talent, an inspiring personal journey, or some major accomplishments—you could still catch an admissions officer’s attention. Just know that with a 1230 SAT or 26 ACT score, Ivy League schools would be serious long shots.

If an Ivy is your dream, you might want to consider retaking the SAT or ACT to boost your score. But if you’re happy with where you are, don’t worry—there are tons of fantastic schools that accept students with a 1230 SAT or 26 ACT.

And with so many colleges going test-optional these days, your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters can carry even more weight. Keep aiming high—you’ve got options!

SAT vs ACT: Which One Should You Take?

When it comes to choosing between the SAT and ACT, the best test for you really depends on your personal strengths, how you handle time pressure, and which schools you’re applying to.

Let’s break it down so you can figure out which test fits you best—and how your score on one translates to the other (like a 1230 SAT to ACT):

What’s the SAT all about?

The SAT is a digital exam that runs for 2 hours and 14 minutes and is split into two main sections: Reading & Writing, and Math. The Reading & Writing section gives you 54 questions to answer in 64 minutes, while the Math section has 44 questions in 70 minutes.

What makes the SAT unique is that it’s adaptive—the difficulty level of the second half of each section changes depending on how you did in the first half. It also gives you more time per question, which is great if you like to think carefully and take your time.

There’s no science section, and the optional essay is only available in certain school-day sessions.

And the ACT?

The ACT is a bit more fast-paced, clocking in at 2 hours and 55 minutes (not including breaks). It’s divided into four sections—English, Math, Reading, and Science—with an optional Writing essay at the end. Here’s what you’re working with:

• English: 75 questions in 45 minutes
• Math: 60 questions in 60 minutes
• Reading: 40 questions in 35 minutes
• Science: 40 questions in 35 minutes
• Writing (optional): 1 essay in 40 minutes

The ACT includes a science section, but don’t worry—it’s not about memorizing biology terms. It’s mostly about reading charts and interpreting data. The test moves fast, so if you’re good at making quick decisions and powering through questions, the ACT might be your style.

So, which one should you go for?

Stick with the SAT if:

• You like having more time to think through each question.
• You prefer longer reading passages and deeper analysis.
• You don’t mind fewer but more complex math problems.
• You’re good at adjusting to changes since the SAT adapts to your performance.

Go for the ACT if:

• You’re quick and good at working under time pressure.
• You like shorter reading passages and a more predictable format.
• You’re cool with a science section (even if it’s more about logic and data than facts).
• You prefer faster-paced math questions that are generally more straightforward.

Still undecided? You could always try practice tests for both and see where you shine. A 1230 SAT to ACT score translates to about a 26 on the ACT, so use that as a benchmark when comparing. Some students naturally score better on one over the other—it’s all about playing to your strengths.

Whichever test you choose, the key is consistent prep. Start practicing early, build confidence, and show up on test day ready to crush it.

How to Ace the SAT/ACT

Whether you’re working toward a 1230 SAT to ACT score or aiming even higher, these strategies can help you boost your performance and show up confident on test day:

1. Practice like it’s the real deal.

You’ve probably heard “practice makes perfect,” but when it comes to the SAT or ACT, realistic practice is what counts. That means using full-length, timed practice tests in a quiet space—no distractions, no pausing.

According to a College Board study, students who spent six or more hours of practice on Official SAT Practice on Khan Academy scored an additional 21 points higher on their first SAT than students who did not use OSP.

Treat your practice tests like the actual exam. Build up your endurance so the real thing feels like a repeat performance—not your first rodeo.

2. Target your weak spots.

Instead of endlessly reviewing everything, focus on your weak areas. If you’re crushing the reading section but struggling with math word problems or science passages, that’s where your energy should go.

ACT research shows that targeted prep—focusing on specific content areas—improves scores more efficiently than general prep across all sections. After each practice test, review every question you missed and figure out why you missed it. Then drill that concept until it’s second nature.

3. Learn to love timing strategies.

Both the SAT and ACT are as much about time management as they are about knowledge. You need to pace yourself or risk running out of time with half a section still untouched.

Time pressure is a major reason students underperform. The ACT, in particular, gives you less than a minute per question on some sections! This is why it’s important to master test-taking strategies under the clock.

4. Don’t ignore the “easy” questions.

It’s tempting to focus only on the hard ones, but here’s a secret: the SAT and ACT are designed to reward consistency more than perfection. Missing easy or medium questions can drag your score down more than getting tripped up by one or two hard ones.

Both tests use scaled scoring, so maximizing points on lower-difficulty questions improves your percentile ranking more efficiently. Make sure you can confidently get the easy and medium questions right before worrying about the toughest ones. Lock in those points first.

5. Start early and space out your prep.

Cramming is stressful and way less effective. Spacing out your study time over several weeks or months leads to better long-term retention and higher scores. Research on the “spacing effect” shows that breaking study into regular sessions improves memory and problem-solving more than last-minute cramming.

Set up a weekly study plan—maybe 30 minutes a day, 4–5 times a week. Build in time for practice tests every 2–3 weeks. You’ll be amazed how much you improve without burning out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is 1230 a good SAT score?

With a 1230 SAT, you’re a competitive applicant for many colleges—especially solid public universities and mid-range private schools. It’s not typically in range for Ivy League or super-selective schools, where scores start in the 1400s, but it is strong enough to get into a lot of great programs, especially if you’ve got strong grades, a solid essay, and extracurriculars.

2. Should I stick with the SAT or switch to the ACT?

It depends on your test-taking style! Sticking with the SAT might be the way to go if you’re comfortable with longer reading passages and more complex math problems. But the ACT might be better if you prefer a faster-paced test with a science section. You can also try both tests to see which one feels more comfortable and plays to your strengths.

3. Can I still get into college with a 1230 SAT/26 ACT score?

Yes! A 1230 SAT/26 ACT score can still make you a strong university applicant. Schools like the University of Houston, University of South Carolina, and University of Central Florida all consider students with these scores as competitive candidates. While your test score is important, other factors like grades, extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation play a big role in your acceptance.

Takeaways

• A 1230 on the SAT is equivalent to a 26 on the ACT, which places you in the 86th percentile.
• A 1230 SAT to ACT score of 26 puts you in a pretty solid spot. You’re scoring above the national average and ahead of the majority of test-takers. While it might not land you at the top Ivy League schools, it can open doors to a wide range of great colleges and universities across the country.
• Your test score isn’t everything. Strong grades, thoughtful essays, meaningful activities, and great letters of recommendation all matter just as much—if not more—at many schools, especially with so many going test-optional.
• Want to improve your SAT/ACT score and increase your chances of getting into Ivies and other top universities? Check out our SAT and ACT tutoring services for personalized and expert guidance.