Translating ACT to SAT Scores

I took the ACT, but a college I'm interested in only references SAT scores. Is there a reliable way to translate my ACT score into an equivalent SAT score?

Yes, there is indeed a way to roughly convert your ACT scores into SAT scores. The ACT and the College Board (which administers the SAT) have released concordance tables, which provide equivalent scores between the two tests. These tables are widely recognized and used by colleges, so you can refer to them without reservation.

To use the table, simply find your ACT composite score and look at the corresponding range of SAT scores. Remember, it gives you a range, not just one single equivalent score, because the two tests are not identical and measure slightly different skills.

However, keep in mind that this converted score is just an estimate and while colleges typically recognize these concordance tables, they understand that the ACT and SAT are not exactly equivalent. Each test has unique characteristics that test differently. For example, the ACT includes a science section, which the SAT does not have.

Lastly, if the admissions office of the college in question only seems to reference SAT scores but doesn't explicitly state that they only accept SAT scores, it's worth double-checking whether they would also accept ACT scores. Most colleges in the U.S. accept either test, giving students the option to submit the score that best showcases their abilities.