The PSAT and ACT are both standardized tests used for different purposes. The PSAT is primarily taken by high school sophomores and juniors as a practice test for the SAT, while the ACT is taken by high school juniors and seniors for college admissions. Despite their differences, there is a significant correlation between the scores on these two tests, as both measure students’ academic abilities in core subjects.
PSAT and ACT Scoring Scales
The PSAT and ACT use different scoring scales. The PSAT is scored on a scale of 320-1520, while the ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36. This difference in scoring scales can make it difficult to directly compare scores on the two tests.
PSAT Score Range|ACT Score Range
—|—|
320-420|1-13
430-520|14-19
530-620|20-25
630-720|26-31
730-820|32-36
830-920|37-40
930-1020|41-44
1030-1120|45-48
1130-1220|49-52
1230-1320|53-56
1330-1420|57-60
1430-1520|61-63
PSAT to ACT Conversion
While there is no official PSAT to ACT conversion chart, several studies have been conducted to determine the approximate equivalencies between the two tests. According to the College Board, the organization that administers the SAT and PSAT, a score of 1180 on the PSAT is roughly equivalent to a score of 24 on the ACT. Similarly, a score of 1270 on the PSAT is roughly equivalent to a score of 27 on the ACT. These equivalencies are based on a concordance study conducted by the College Board.
PSAT Score Range ACT Score Range
1000-1020 18-20
1030-1060 21-23
1070-1100 24
1110-1140 25
1150-1180 26
1190-1220 27
1230-1260 28
1270-1300 29
1310-1340 30
1350-1380 31
1390-1420 32
1430-1460 33
1470-1500 34
1510-1520 35
Factors Affecting PSAT to ACT Conversion
It is important to note that the PSAT to ACT conversion is not an exact science, and several factors can affect the equivalency between the two tests. These factors include:
- The difficulty of the test: The difficulty of the PSAT and ACT can vary slightly from year to year.
- The student’s individual performance: Students’ performance on the PSAT and ACT can vary depending on their strengths and weaknesses.
- The testing conditions: The testing conditions on the PSAT and ACT can also affect students’ performance.
Using the PSAT to ACT Conversion
The PSAT to ACT conversion can be a helpful tool to estimate your potential ACT score. However, it is important to use this information with caution. The conversion is not an exact science, and several factors can affect the equivalency between the two tests. The best way to determine your potential ACT score is to take a practice ACT test.
Strategies for Improving Your ACT Score
If you want to improve your ACT score, there are several strategies you can use. These strategies include:
- Taking practice tests: Practice tests are one of the best ways to improve your ACT score. Practice tests will help you familiarize yourself with the format of the test and identify areas where you need to improve.
- Reviewing your mistakes: Once you have taken a practice test, take some time to review your mistakes. This will help you identify the areas where you need to focus your studies.
- Studying the right material: There are a lot of different ACT prep materials available. Choose materials that are relevant to your needs and that target the areas where you need to improve.
- Getting help from a tutor: If you are struggling to improve your ACT score on your own, you may want to consider getting help from a tutor. A tutor can help you develop a personalized study plan and provide you with the support you need to succeed.
Tips for Taking the ACT
Here are some tips for taking the ACT:
- Get a good night’s sleep before the test.
- Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of the test.
- Arrive at the test center on time.
- Listen carefully to the instructions.
- Pace yourself during the test.
- Don’t be afraid to guess on questions that you don’t know.
- Check your answers before you submit your test.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of getting a high score on the ACT.
