SAT ⇄ ACT Conversion: Chart, Method, and Planning
SAT–ACT concordance provides an approximate mapping between scores on the two exams. Use conversion ranges alongside percentiles and your target colleges’ profiles to plan testing strategy.
How Concordance Works
- Based on large-scale research comparing student performance across tests
- Intended as approximate equivalence, not exact prediction
- Use in combination with percentiles and school-specific ranges
Quick Reference Conversion Bands
| SAT (EBRW+Math) | ACT Composite | Context |
|---|---|---|
| 1530–1600 | 35–36 | Top of national pool |
| 1400–1520 | 31–34 | Highly competitive |
| 1230–1390 | 27–30 | Competitive range |
| 1050–1220 | 22–26 | Broad-access range |
| 930–1040 | 19–21 | Developing |
Planning Tips
- Pick the test that aligns with your strengths; practice both briefly to decide
- Use concordance to set equivalent score targets across tests
- Check each college’s middle-50% ranges for recent classes