These tables map comparable scores across both tests so colleges can evaluate test scores from applicants who took different exams on equal footing. Use the concordance below, then look up score ranges for colleges you care about.
You can convert ACT scores to SAT scores (and vice versa) using the official concordance tables from the College Board and ACT. The concordance maps equivalent percentile ranks so colleges can compare applicants who took different standardized tests. Use the calculator below, then scroll to the full conversion table.
ACT to SAT score calculator
Enter your ACT composite (1–36) or SAT total (400–1600) to see the equivalent score on the other test. Based on the official 2018 concordance.
Convert a score (official 2018 concordance)
Concordance reflects equivalent percentile ranks across test-takers, not a direct conversion. For section-level comparisons (including SAT Math vs ACT Math, or SAT Evidence-Based Reading vs ACT English), section scores concordance is available on the College Board and ACT websites.
ACT vs SAT conversion table
Full official concordance: ACT composite score and equivalent SAT total score range (400–1600).
| ACT composite | SAT total (400–1600) |
|---|---|
| 36 | 1570–1600 |
| 35 | 1530–1560 |
| 34 | 1490–1520 |
| 33 | 1450–1480 |
| 32 | 1420–1440 |
| 31 | 1390–1410 |
| 30 | 1360–1380 |
| 29 | 1330–1350 |
| 28 | 1300–1320 |
| 27 | 1260–1290 |
| 26 | 1230–1250 |
| 25 | 1200–1220 |
| 24 | 1160–1190 |
| 23 | 1130–1150 |
| 22 | 1100–1120 |
| 21 | 1060–1090 |
| 20 | 1030–1050 |
| 19 | 990–1020 |
| 18 | 960–980 |
| 17 | 920–950 |
| 16 | 880–910 |
| 15 | 830–870 |
| 14 | 780–820 |
| 13 | 730–770 |
| 12 | 690–720 |
| 11 | 650–680 |
| 10 | 620–640 |
| 9 | 590–610 |
| 8 | 560–580 |
| 7 | 530–550 |
| 6 | 500–520 |
| 5 | 480–490 |
| 4 | 460–470 |
| 3 | 430–450 |
| 2 | 400–420 |
| 1 | 400 |
Should I take the ACT or SAT?
The majority of colleges and universities accept either SAT or ACT scores, so you should find the test that you perform stronger in. Check out our SAT vs ACT guide to understand the differences between the two tests.
The SAT is made up of two main sections: SAT Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. The ACT covers four sections: ACT English, ACT Math, Reading, and Science. The structure, timing, and question style differ meaningfully between the two, which is why the best way to choose is to take a full-length practice test of each under real test conditions and compare your test scores.
Many students prefer one or the other or generally score higher in one to start. Acely offers a free trial and access to both the SAT and ACT, so you can take a practice test for both and see which fits you best. Acely will then create a personalized study plan for either exam based on your baseline score, goal score, and test date, so you can build confidence and improve on your weak areas before test day.
Try Acely for free. For more context on score goals, see our SAT score guide and SAT prep hub.
SAT and ACT score ranges by college
Look up the middle 50% SAT and ACT score ranges for colleges you're interested in. These ranges reflect enrolled students' submitted scores and help you see how your scores compare.
School score requirements
Look up recommended SAT and ACT scores for schools you're interested in.