Even though the ACT and the SAT are two completely different exams, ACT to SAT conversion is possible and it allows you to see how well you could have or would have done on the other exam. Whether you’re trying to figure out which exam will make you look better to the college of your dreams or you’re simply curious, I’ll show you how to convert your scores from the ACT to the old SAT and the redesigned SAT and how to convert your scores from either version of the SAT to the ACT.

What’s the Point of ACT to SAT Conversion

Identifying which of the standardized tests you perform better on is one way to impress the colleges you’re applying to. The reason being, if you perform better on one test over the other, you can make that score even better; and a better score makes you look better to the admissions committees. ACT to SAT conversion can help you figure this out. So instead of spreading yourself thin by trying to master both tests, you can focus on just one, and rock it. Knowing how you would have performed on the other test can help you finalize if the ACT or SAT is the right standardized test for you.

Redesigned SAT to ACT Conversion Table

Just like you can do an ACT to SAT conversion, you can also convert the SAT to the ACT. The College Board website released this amazing conversion tables to help you figure out how your new SAT score would translate to the ACT. Although the ACT has not verified these comparisons, they are incredibly accurate and reliable for our purposes.

ACT to Old SAT Conversion Table

If you’ve taken the old SAT and want to see how your score would translate on the ACT, you can use the table below for an ACT to SAT conversion. We’ve provided both the estimated composite and range scores based on information provided by the ACT.

Please remember that comparing your scores doesn't substitute actually taking them. If you find that your score is actually better on a different test, you can’t submit the converted score to a college for your application. These tables are purely for your own reference to see which test is a better fit for you and reflects your talents in the best way.

Also keep in mind that the old SAT is no longer being offered. I still included it because many colleges will continue to accept the old scores as well as the new ones.

How These Tables Help You

I mentioned earlier that knowing how your score converts can help you decide which test to focus your energies on. It’s also helpful to know, because when looking at the median scores of the ACT and the SAT, some schools make it look like you’ll have an easier time taking one test over the other. But here’s the thing; in order to be a competitive applicant, you’ll need to be scoring above the reported median score. So if you perform better doing the ACT, but you notice the median SAT scores for the school you’re applying to seem lower, you might be tempted to switch gears and devote your energy to the SAT.

Here’s what you need to remember: those median scores based on the accepted applications are not necessarily equivalent to each other. Stick with the test that gives you the higher score and a better competitive edge when you’re applying to schools.

The ACT and SAT are two different tests designed to show colleges how prepared you are for the next step in your education. Not everyone performs equally well on both exams and it’s important to identify which test shows off your talents. This means you can focus on that test and improve your score come application time. Taking a look at these ACT to SAT conversion tables will help you do just that. So whether you decide on the ACT or the SAT, these tables can help you decide where to devote your energies and help you focus on getting into the school of your dreams.

Do you have any questions about the ACT or SAT? Do you wish you would have taken a different test altogether? Let us know in the comments below. We can’t wait to hear from you!