SAT to ACT Conversion: Choose the Right Test for You

Are you deliberating between taking the SAT or the ACT? The good news is that neither test is inherently favored by colleges. Highly selective institutions value competitive scores on whichever test you choose, so it’s ultimately up to you to decide which exam aligns better with your strengths. Using tools like an SAT-to-ACT conversion chart can help you evaluate your scores to identify your best path forward. This article explores the differences between the two tests, how to utilize score conversion, and strategies for making informed decisions.

Why Does SAT-to-ACT Conversion Matter?

Consider a scenario: Sophie, a high school junior, takes a diagnostic SAT and scores 1450, but she also takes a diagnostic ACT and scores a 30. To determine which test to focus on, Sophie compares her results using an SAT-to-ACT conversion chart. According to the chart, a 1450 on the SAT is approximately equivalent to a 33 on the ACT. This indicates Sophie performed better on the SAT, and she should consider focusing her preparation on that exam.

This kind of analysis is especially helpful when determining whether to retake a test or which test aligns better with your skillset. Major differences between the two exams, such as subject focus, time per question, and scoring variability, may influence which test suits you more.

Key Differences Between the SAT and ACT

Here are some crucial factors to consider when deciding between the SAT and the ACT:

1. Exam Structure

ACT: Consists of four sections—English, Math, Reading, and Science—with each lasting between 35–60 minutes. The ACT also features an optional Writing section.

SAT: The Digital SAT comprises four modules that range from 32–35 minutes each. The most significant difference lies in the Math section. The SAT requires advanced mathematical problem-solving skills, including questions you cannot guess on since they involve student-produced responses. If you enjoy math, the SAT may be a better fit, while reading-oriented students might perform better on the ACT.

2. Time Per Question

ACT: Prioritizes speed, with tighter time constraints. For example, test-takers have 1 minute per math question and 36 seconds per English question. In total, the ACT takes about 3.5 hours to complete (including breaks). However, these rules will change in April 2025 for online testers and September 2025 for pencil-and-paper testers (details below).

SAT: Allows more time per question—around 73 seconds per question—but the test itself is reading-intensive, including in the Math section. Students who prefer a slightly slower pace may lean toward the SAT.

3. The ACT’s Science Section

Unlike the SAT, the ACT includes a dedicated Science section. However, this section is less about recalling specific biology, chemistry, or physics facts and more about analyzing graphs, charts, and research data. Students comfortable with scientific terminology may find this section easier, but even those who aren’t “science people” can excel with adequate practice in interpretation and comprehension.

4. Optional Writing Portion

Several years ago, the SAT eliminated its optional essay section. The ACT still offers an optional 40-minute Writing section, though not all colleges require it. Be sure to verify your prospective colleges’ requirements before choosing whether to complete this section.

5. Perfect Scores and Scoring Challenges

Fewer students achieve perfect scores on the SAT. Less than 0.1% of test-takers score a perfect 1600. By comparison, approximately 0.25% of ACT test-takers achieve a perfect 36. This statistical difference may be worth factoring into your decision.

Upcoming ACT Changes in 2025

The ACT is undergoing notable changes starting in April 2025 (online) and September 2025 (pencil-and-paper):

Fewer Questions: The total number of questions will decrease by 44.

Shorter Length: The duration of the test will shrink from 195 minutes to 125 minutes.

Time Per Question: The reduced question count will give students more time to answer each question.

Changes in Math Section: Multiple-choice math questions will decrease from five to four answer choices.

Optional Science Section: Students will have the option to take the ACT without the Science section if desired.

These changes aim to streamline the testing process and alleviate some time-related stress.

SAT-to-ACT Conversion Chart

Using concordance tables, which are created by analyzing data from hundreds of thousands of test-takers, can help you approximate how scores on the SAT and ACT correspond. While not exact, such tools offer reliable benchmarks for comparison.

Below is a SAT-to-ACT conversion chart based on the most recent concordance data:

Deciding Which Test to Focus On

1. Take Diagnostic Tests

The best way to start is by taking diagnostic exams for both the SAT and ACT. Many test prep providers offer these tests for free, often under realistic, proctored conditions. Compare your scores using the conversion table to identify your stronger performance.

2. Submit Your Stronger Score

Colleges typically consider only your highest composite score. For example, if you score a 1440 on the SAT and a 34 on the ACT, submit the ACT score because it's higher on the conversion scale. The exception? If you received perfect or near-perfect scores on both exams, consider submitting your SAT score, as fewer students achieve a perfect 1600.

Final Thoughts on SAT and ACT Preparation

If your current scores aren't where you'd like them to be, don't worry! There are countless resources to help you improve. Research indicates that students who retake their tests often see gains—SAT-takers improve by an average of 40 points, while ACT-takers scoring between 19 and 29 typically gain 1 point. Using free resources like Khan Academy can lead to even greater improvements; a study found that students who engaged for 20 hours of SAT prep on Khan Academy achieved an average score gain of 115 points.

For even more targeted and effective preparation, consider platforms like Best SAT Score . Our advanced tools, expert-curated Question Bank, and personalized study plans can help you break through your score ceiling and achieve your full potential on the SAT or ACT.

By diagnosing your strengths, setting clear study goals, utilizing specialized resources, and practicing strategically, you'll be well on your way to acing the SAT or ACT and unlocking exciting opportunities at your dream colleges!