From ACT 35 to SAT Conversion: How Do They Compare?

Hey folks! I've got an ACT score of 35, but I'm considering also taking the SAT to give myself more flexibility in college applications. I've heard different opinions on how ACT scores convert to SAT scores, and I'm trying to understand the difference.

Does anyone know how a 35 on the ACT typically stacks up against the SAT? Is it worth taking both tests if colleges accept either, or should I focus on improving my ACT score even more? Any experiences or insights would be super helpful.

A 35 on the ACT is an excellent score, putting you in the top 1% of test takers, and it signals to colleges a strong readiness for collegiate academic work. This is equivalent to an SAT score in the range of 1530-1560. The estimate can fluctuate slightly from year to year due to different scaling methods by the College Board, but it generally holds.

Regardless, a 35 on the ACT is already a very competitive score for any institution. Instead of focusing on improving this score even further, you might want to concentrate your efforts on other elements of your application such as your essays, extracurricular activities, or course rigor. A successful college application is a well-rounded package that displays your academic abilities, personal skills, and passions, not just a high test score.

As for taking the SAT as well, it's not necessary if you're happy with your ACT score. If you feel you could perform significantly better on the SAT due to its distinct format, then it could be worth a shot. But, in most cases, performing well in one test should suffice. Both exams are universally accepted by U.S. colleges and no preference is given to one over the other.

It's important to remember that how you use the test scores in your application strategy can also have an impact. For instance, if you're targeting highly selective schools, presenting a high ACT or SAT score may be beneficial because at that level, having a high test score is almost a prerequisite. On the other hand, the majority of the selective colleges are following a 'test-optional' policy for the time being, in response to the pandemic. For these colleges, other factors like your GPA, coursework, essays, and recommendations, may play a more crucial role. Good luck!