A 1490 SAT score is equivalent to a 34 on the ACT composite score.
Understanding SAT and ACT Equivalencies
Both the SAT and ACT are standardized tests widely accepted by colleges and universities for admissions. Since each test has a distinct format, scoring scale, and content focus, various equivalency scales have been developed to help students, parents, and admissions officers compare scores across the two exams. These concordance tables provide a common ground for understanding a student's performance, regardless of which test they chose to take.
Based on widely accepted conversion charts, a 1490 SAT score places a student in a top performance tier, correlating directly with an impressive ACT composite score.
Here's how a 1490 SAT score relates to the ACT, alongside surrounding score ranges:
| SAT Score Range | Equivalent ACT Composite Score |
|---|---|
| 1490-1520 | 34 |
| 1450-1480 | 33 |
| 1420-1440 | 32 |
| 1390-1410 | 31 |
As seen in the table, a 1490 SAT score falls precisely within the range associated with an ACT composite score of 34.
The Significance of a High Score
Achieving a 1490 on the SAT or a 34 on the ACT is a significant accomplishment. These scores are well above the national averages for both tests and demonstrate exceptional academic readiness.
- Competitive Admissions: Scores in this range are highly competitive and typically place applicants in a strong position for admission to many of the nation's most selective colleges and universities.
- Scholarship Opportunities: High SAT and ACT scores can also qualify students for various merit-based scholarships.
- Demonstrates Proficiency: These scores reflect a strong grasp of core academic skills, including critical reading, writing, and mathematics (for the SAT), or English, math, reading, and science reasoning (for the ACT).
Considerations for Test Takers
While conversion tables are useful, it's worth noting a few practical insights for students:
- Individual Fit: Some students naturally perform better on one test over the other due to differences in format, pacing, and content emphasis. Taking practice tests for both can help determine which exam aligns best with an individual's strengths.
- College-Specific Preferences: Although most colleges accept both tests equally, some might historically receive more applications with one test over the other, or may have internal preferences for how they review scores. It's always a good idea to check the admissions requirements or recommendations of target institutions.
Ultimately, a 1490 SAT score is a strong indicator of academic potential, translating to a 34 on the ACT, a score that opens many doors in higher education.
