34 ACT to SAT Score: Conversion + Tips

Getting a 34 on the ACT is a huge achievement. If you’ve scored this high, you’re already among the top test-takers in the country. But if you’re curious about how your 34 ACT score translates to the SAT, you’re not alone. Many students wonder about score conversions, especially if they apply to colleges that accept both tests.

In this blog, we’ll break down what a 34 ACT score means in SAT terms, how good this score is, and whether you should take the ACT or SAT based on your strengths. We’ll also share tips to help you ace either test. Let’s dive in!

• 34 ACT to SAT Score: What’s the Equivalent Score?
• How Good Is Your 34 ACT Score/1500 SAT?
• ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?
• How to Ace the ACT/SAT
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

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

According to official conversion charts, a 34 ACT score typically falls within the 1490 to 1520 SAT range. Your score is in the same ballpark as someone who scored a 1500 on the SAT.

If you’re curious about how different ACT scores translate to SAT scores, here’s the full ACT-to-SAT conversion chart:

This table shows that a 34 on the ACT puts you in the same range as a 1500 on the SAT. This helps you understand where your score stands compared to SAT-takers, especially if you’re applying to colleges that accept either test.

If you aim for a higher SAT equivalent, scoring a 35 on the ACT would bump you to a 1540 SAT, while a perfect 36 would put you at a 1590. Understanding these conversions can help you decide which test to take or whether to retake one for a better score.

How Good Is Your 34 ACT Score/1500 SAT?

Short answer? It’s excellent. Here’s what your 34 ACT/1500 SAT score means:

34 ACT percentile

A 34 ACT score places you in the 99th percentile for Math, Science, Composite, and STEM categories and at least 97th in English and Reading. That means you scored higher than 99% of all test-takers in most areas, putting you in the top 1% nationwide. That’s an incredible achievement and a strong signal to colleges that you are among the best.

1500 SAT percentile

Based on national data, a 1500 SAT score places you in the 99th percentile of all test-takers. That means you scored better than 99% of students who took the SAT, making you a strong candidate for competitive colleges. 

Is a 34 ACT/1500 SAT score competitive for top colleges?

Absolutely! With a 34 ACT or 1500 SAT, you’re in great shape for some of the most selective schools in the country. These scores put you in the middle or the top of the typical ranges for Ivy League schools and other universities.

For example, here’s how your score stacks up against the average accepted ranges at Ivy League schools:

With your 34 ACT or 1500 SAT, you’re also in the mix for other prestigious schools, such as MIT, Stanford, Duke, and top public universities like the University of Virginia and Georgia Tech.

Remember that many schools are now test-optional, meaning you might not need to submit your scores at all, but with a score like yours, it would make your application stand out. So, you’re in a great position to apply to some of the best colleges!

ACT vs. SAT: Which Test Should You Take?

You’ve come to the right place if you’re still deciding between the ACT and SAT. Let’s break down the differences to help you choose the test that matches your strengths.

What you need to know about the ACT

The ACT is a bit longer at 2 hours, 55 minutes (not including breaks) and has four sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science. Here’s how it breaks down:

• English: 75 questions in 45 minutes
• Math: 60 questions in 60 minutes
• Reading: 40 questions in 35 minutes
• Science: 40 questions in 35 minutes

The ACT moves quickly, so if you’re good at thinking on your feet and handling pressure, this might be your test.

What to know about the SAT

The SAT is a 2-hour, 14-minute digital test with two sections: Reading & Writing and Math. Here’s what it looks like:

• Reading & Writing: 54 questions in 64 minutes
• Math: 44 questions in 70 minutes

There’s no science section, but the test is adaptive, meaning the second half of each section changes based on how you did in the first half. The SAT could be your go-to if you like taking your time with tricky questions, especially in reading and math.

So, which one should you take?

Pick the SAT if:

• You’re okay with a slower pace and want more time per question.
• You’re good at reading long passages and tackling in-depth math problems.
• You prefer a test that adapts based on how you’re doing.
• You excel in algebra and data analysis rather than geometry and trigonometry.
• You want to avoid a dedicated science section and focus on reading and math.

Go with the ACT if:

• You’re quick on your feet and can work under pressure.
• You want a science section and shorter reading passages.
• You’re fine with a faster-paced test and don’t mind working through more questions.
• You’re strong in geometry and trigonometry, which appear more frequently on the ACT.
• You prefer more straightforward questions with less emphasis on problem-solving steps.

Still not sure? You could try both tests and see which one feels better for you. After all, it’s all about playing to your strengths. Whatever you choose, remember that prep is key, so start practicing and stay confident!

How to Ace the ACT/SAT

Ready to crush the ACT or SAT? With the right game plan, you can seriously boost your score. Here are some strategies to help you walk into test day feeling confident and ready to succeed:

1. Get familiar with the test format.

Understanding the test inside and out is half the battle. Know how many questions you’ll face, how much time you’ll have for each section, and what each test part requires. The more you know about the structure, the easier it will be to stay calm and focused on test day.

Familiarizing yourself with the test format also helps you develop effective pacing strategies, ensuring you don’t run out of time on tougher sections.

2. Zero in on your weak spots.

We all have areas where we struggle. It could be algebra on the SAT or the science section on the ACT. Determine where you’re not scoring as high, then dedicate extra study time to those tricky areas. Improving your weakest sections can make a difference in your overall score. Use targeted practice tests and review mistakes thoroughly to turn weaknesses into strengths.

3. Use quality prep resources.

When it comes to prep, go for the real deal. Stick to official test prep books, online courses, and free practice tests from the test makers. The SAT and ACT offer many resources to help you prep, and sites like Khan Academy and ACT Academy give free, high-quality materials to guide you.

4. Create a study schedule that works for you.

You can’t just cram the night before and expect to ace it. Create a study routine that fits into your week. Break down your prep into smaller sections, take timed practice tests, and review the mistakes you made. Staying consistent and having a plan will keep you on track and prevent stress as the test progresses.

5. Consider working with a tutor.

If you need extra help, a tutor can give you the personalized attention you might need. Tutors can break down complex concepts quickly and offer tailored strategies to help you improve your score. Plus, having someone to guide you can give you the confidence boost you need when taking the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a 34 ACT score equivalent to on the SAT?

Official conversion charts place a 34 ACT score in the 1490-1520 SAT range, meaning you’re in the same league as someone who scored around 1500 on the SAT. Knowing if you’re applying to schools that accept both tests and want to see where you stand is helpful. If you’re aiming even higher, a 35 ACT is roughly a 1540 SAT, while a perfect 36 ACT gets you close to a 1590 SAT.

2. Is a 34 ACT or 1500 SAT a good score?

Absolutely, it’s an amazing score! A 34 ACT puts you in the top 1% of all test-takers, meaning you outscored 99% of students nationwide. The same goes for a 1500 SAT, which also ranks in the 99th percentile, making you a strong candidate for top colleges. With this score, you have a solid shot at Ivy League schools and other highly selective universities, so you should feel confident about your chances!

3. Can you get into top colleges with a 34 ACT or 1500 SAT?

Yes! A 34 ACT or 1500 SAT is within the range of admitted students at Ivy League schools like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. For example, Harvard’s middle 50% SAT range is 1500-1580, and its ACT range is 34-36, meaning your score puts you in a competitive spot. Remember, test scores are only one part of the application; grades, extracurriculars, and essays also matter!

4. Should you take the ACT or SAT?

It depends on your strengths and test-taking style. The ACT is fast-paced, with more questions but less time per question, making it great if you’re quick at solving problems under pressure. Conversely, the SAT gives you more time per question and has no science section, so it’s better if you like working through tricky problems more carefully.

If you’re unsure, try taking a practice test for both and see which one feels more natural!

5. How can you improve your ACT or SAT score?

The best way to boost your score is to study smart and focus on your weak areas. Use official prep materials, take timed practice tests, and review your mistakes carefully to understand where you need improvement. If you struggle with certain sections, consider working with a tutor or using free resources like Khan Academy for the SAT or ACT Academy for the ACT.

Most importantly, stick to a study plan; cramming at the last minute won’t get you the score you want!

Takeaways

• Your 34 ACT (equivalent to a 1500 SAT) places you in the top 1% of test-takers nationwide.
• This score makes you a strong candidate for Ivy League schools like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, as well as top universities like Stanford and MIT.
• The ACT suits quick thinkers who thrive under time pressure, while the SAT allows more time per question and omits the science section.
• To improve further, target your weak areas, take official practice tests, follow a structured study plan, or work with a tutor.
• Got a 34 ACT and wondering if it’s enough? A college admissions expert can help you assess your score to top schools like Harvard, Stanford, and MIT, strengthen your application, and maximize your chances of admission.