ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion: What You Need to Know

If you’re preparing for college admissions, you’ve probably wondered how your ACT or SAT score stacks up. According to a report by the College Board, more than 1.9 million students in the class of 2023 took the SAT at least once, up from 1.7 million in 2022. The ACT reported approximately 1.4 million test-takers for the same cohort (ACT). 

Especially if you’re aiming for top-tier schools like those in the Ivy League, understanding ACT vs. SAT score conversion can make a big difference in your application strategy. Converting these scores allows colleges to compare students fairly, regardless of which test they take. 

But what does this process really involve? And how can you use it to your advantage? This guide breaks it all down, from explaining the SAT conversion table to helping you understand how your scores might fit into Ivy League admissions.

• Why Does ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion Matter?
• What Is the SAT Conversion Table?
• How to Use ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion in Your Application Strategy
• Real-Life Examples of ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

Why Does ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion Matter?

Colleges in the U.S. accept both ACT and SAT scores, and some students even take both tests to maximize their options. However, because the tests are scored differently, it’s impossible to directly compare an ACT score to an SAT score without a conversion table. 

For example, if you scored a 29 on the ACT, you might wonder if that’s equivalent to an SAT score of 1350 or 1450. Conversion tables provide a standardized way to answer that question. This is especially critical for Ivy League schools and other top universities, where most applicants fall into the top percentiles of test scores. Using a score conversion, you can:

• Determine if your score is competitive.
• Decide whether you should retake a test or switch to the other one.
• Make an informed decision when sending scores to colleges.
• Understand how your scores compare to the average admitted student.
• Create a more targeted study plan if you choose to retake a test.

Understanding the conversion is particularly important because each school has different score expectations. While some colleges may have a preference for either the ACT or SAT, most use conversion tables to evaluate scores equally, ensuring that all applicants have a level playing field.

How ACT and SAT scores differ

Before diving into the conversion process, it’s important to understand the fundamental differences between the ACT and SAT:

These structural differences mean the tests appeal to different types of students. Some excel on the SAT’s logic-driven questions, while others thrive under the ACT’s time constraints and content variety.

The SAT tends to place a greater emphasis on reasoning skills and evidence-based reading and writing, whereas the ACT is more direct, with an added focus on scientific analysis. The timing differences can also affect which test a student prefers. Students who need more time per question may prefer the SAT, while those who work well under pressure might favor the ACT.

What Is the SAT Conversion Table?

The SAT conversion table translates ACT scores into SAT scores (and vice versa). Developed through concordance studies by the College Board and ACT, these tables help admissions offices and students compare scores.

Here’s the complete SAT conversion table:

*This SAT score can be used when you need a single score point comparison.

Notice that the SAT equivalent is expressed as a range. This accounts for slight variations in test difficulty and the skills assessed.

The conversion table helps students determine where they stand relative to the average scores at their target schools. It is also helpful in deciding which test might be more advantageous based on a student’s natural strengths and weaknesses. The data used to create these tables come from millions of test-takers, making them a reliable tool for both students and admissions officers.

How Ivy League schools use ACT vs. SAT score conversion

Ivy League schools, like Harvard, Princeton, and Yale, have notoriously high standards. These schools take a holistic admissions approach, considering factors beyond test scores, such as extracurricular achievements, essays, and recommendations. Applicants are often expected to be in the top 1% of test-takers. While these schools don’t officially state a preference for the SAT or ACT, they do publish the middle 50% range for both tests.

For example:

• Harvard: Middle 50% SAT range is 1480–1580, and for the ACT, it’s 33–36.
• Princeton: Middle 50% SAT range is 1460–1570, and for the ACT, it’s 33–35.

Using the conversion table, you can estimate whether your score is competitive for Ivy League admissions. For instance:

• A student with a 33 ACT score would convert to an SAT score of about 1450–1480, placing them within Princeton’s range.
• A student with a 1400 SAT score would convert to an ACT score of 31, which is slightly below Harvard’s middle range.

These scores give you an idea of where you stand and help you determine if you need to retake a test to improve your chances of admission. The middle 50% range represents the scores of the middle half of admitted students, meaning that scoring within or above this range gives you a competitive edge.

It’s also important to keep in mind that while test scores are a key component of the admissions process, they are not the only factor considered. Ivy League schools take a holistic approach, evaluating your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

How to Use ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion in Your Application Strategy

Understanding how your scores compare can guide your next steps. It is crucial to compare your scores with the published ranges of your target schools to understand where you stand and identify areas for improvement.

Deciding whether to retake a test

If your ACT score converts to an SAT score that’s below your target school’s range, consider retaking the test. For example, if you score a 28 on the ACT (equivalent to a 1310 SAT), but your dream school prefers scores above 1400, a retake might be worth it.

Retaking the test is particularly valuable if you believe you can improve your score significantly. Many students find that with targeted studying, especially focusing on their weakest areas, they can raise their scores enough to make a real difference in their admissions chances.

Choosing which score to send

Many schools allow you to send either ACT or SAT scores. By converting your scores, you can decide which one presents you in the best light. For instance, if your ACT score converts higher than your SAT score, it makes sense to submit the ACT score.

Some students may perform significantly better on one test over the other, so using the conversion table can help you highlight your strengths. Keep in mind that many colleges practice superscoring, where they consider the highest section scores across multiple test dates. If you take the SAT or ACT multiple times, you can combine your best scores to create the most favorable overall score.

Determining if switching tests is worth it

If your SAT score feels stuck below your target range, you might perform better on the ACT—and vice versa. Use a practice test to assess your potential before committing to a switch.

For students who have already taken one test multiple times without seeing significant improvement, switching to the other test can sometimes yield better results. The ACT and SAT measure slightly different skills, and a change in format and question style may suit your strengths better. Take a full-length practice test for the other exam to determine if a switch might benefit you.

Real-Life Examples of ACT vs. SAT Score Conversion

Let’s say there are two students applying to different types of schools:

Example 1: Applying to an Ivy League School

Emma scored a 35 on the ACT and wants to know if that’s competitive for Yale. Using the SAT conversion table, her score translates to 1540–1580 on the SAT, well within Yale’s middle 50% range of 1470–1560. Emma decides to send her ACT score.

Emma also considers her extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations when applying. While her test scores are strong, she knows showcasing her leadership roles and passion projects will strengthen her overall application.

Strong scores are often just the baseline for Ivy League schools, and demonstrating unique qualities and contributions can set an applicant apart.

Example 2: Applying to a state university

James scored a 27 on the ACT and is applying to the University of Texas at Austin. Converted to an SAT score, this is about 1260–1290. Since UT Austin’s middle 50% SAT range is 1230–1480, James knows his score is competitive.

James also looks at other aspects of his application, such as his GPA and extracurriculars. He emphasizes his community service experience and leadership in a local club to further boost his application.

For state universities, test scores are important, but a well-rounded application can make a big difference, especially for students whose scores are on the lower end of the middle range.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is one test easier than the other?

Neither test is inherently easier; it depends on your strengths. The ACT might suit you better if you prefer science and quick problem-solving. If you like reasoning-based questions, try the SAT. Some students find the ACT’s faster pace challenging, while others struggle with the SAT’s emphasis on reasoning. It’s a good idea to take a practice test for both to determine which one you feel more comfortable with. The key is to play to your strengths.

2. How accurate are conversion tables?

Conversion tables are based on data from millions of test-takers, so they’re reliable. However, they’re not perfect because the tests measure slightly different skills. While the conversion tables provide a useful estimate, keep in mind that the ACT and SAT have different formats and question styles. The scores are not a perfect one-to-one match, and small differences in skills can result in variations in your converted score.

3. Do colleges convert scores themselves?

Yes, most colleges use SAT conversion tables to compare applicants fairly, especially when evaluating large applicant pools. Admissions offices rely on conversion tables to ensure that all students are evaluated on an equal footing, regardless of which test they took. This helps create a consistent standard for assessing academic ability across a diverse applicant pool.

4. Should I take both the ACT and SAT?

You don’t have to, but some students find it helpful to try both and see which one they excel at. Focus on the test where you can achieve the highest score. Taking both tests can provide flexibility; however, it’s important to manage your time effectively—preparing for both tests requires a significant investment of time and energy. Once you determine which test is your stronger option, focus your efforts there to maximize your score.

5. Do scholarships use conversion tables?

Many scholarships accept both ACT and SAT scores, using conversion tables to set eligibility criteria. Scholarship programs often have specific score requirements, and using conversion tables can help you determine if you meet these criteria. Higher scores can open up more scholarship opportunities, so understanding how your scores compare can be crucial in securing financial aid.

Takeaways

• Use ACT vs. SAT score conversion to understand how your scores compare. For Ivy League schools, aim for ACT scores of 33–36 or SAT scores of 1450–1600. Use your strongest test score to enhance your application. 
• Test scores are important, but they’re just one part of your application. Remember that extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations play a major role in your overall application.
• If necessary, retake tests to improve your score, but also consider switching tests if they align better with your strengths. Understanding ACT vs. SAT score conversion isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for college admissions.
• A strong application involves more than just test scores—focusing on your unique experiences, achievements, and contributions can make all the difference in standing out among a competitive pool of applicants.
• Consider reaching out to a college admissions consultant for help in deciding whether the ACT or SAT would be best for you.