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Writer's pictureTammy Chang Test Prep

Choosing Between the ACT and SAT

Updated: Feb 25, 2023

Many students and parents ask about the differences between the SAT and ACT. Aside from the fundamental differences between a Scholastic Assessment Test (originally named Scholastic Aptitude Test) and the College Admissions Testing, there are some facts I would like to address:


1. The SAT total score is the sum of your verbal and math scores, whereas the ACT composite score is an average of four subject scores. For example, if your SAT Reading and Writing/Language score is 770 and Math score is 730, your SAT Total score will be 1,500. However, the ACT averages your English, Math, Reading, and Science scores, so if your English score is 35, Math is 32, Reading is 34, and Science is 33, your ACT Composite score will be 34 (33.5 rounded up).


2. The ACT Science test only requires knowledge from “introductory science courses,” and most test passages involve reading charts and graphs. It is a fast paced “reading” test, so practicing can make a difference.

3. ACT issues a “super score” report using the highest subject scores from all of the student’s attempts. For example, if a student scored a high English score on the first attempt, a high math score on the second attempt, and high reading and science scores on the third attempt, ACT will issue a super score report using these scores.


4. ACT composite scores are rounded up, so, for example, a 33.5 is rounded up to a 34.


5. For higher institutions that accept standardized test scores, ACT and SAT are both accepted for college admissions. There is a conversion chart for equivalent SAT/ACT scores. For example, a 1490, 1500, 1510, or 1520 on the SAT will be equivalent to a 34 on the ACT.




SAT and ACT Scores Compared: SAT/ACT Score Conversions

































Published 2022-2023 ACT Test Dates (Please confirm with the ACT):



Published and Anticipated 2023-2024 SAT Test Dates (Please confirm with the SAT):

















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