The PSAT is often seen as a stepping stone to the SAT, but it can also help students decide whether the ACT might be a better fit. Many students already have a baseline score from a practice ACT or PreACT. Comparing these scores to digital PSAT results can reveal potential advantages.
Students without an ACT score can take a 3-hour practice ACT at a Compass location or online. For those eager to see their official PSAT scores, a practice digital PSAT or digital SAT with Compass is another option. Compass score reports offer more detailed insights than those from College Board or ACT, including a review of missed questions, which is no longer available on the official digital PSAT.
Using PSAT Scores to Compare to ACT Scores
Compass provides an interactive comparison tool, a downloadable chart, and a table based on research and concordances. While most students’ scores will fall into a “Judgment Call” zone, some will find a clear advantage in one test.
Download a PDF Version of the PSAT to ACT Comparison
It’s important to view the relationship between digital PSAT and ACT scores as a range of possibilities. Colleges use concordance tables to compare digital SAT and ACT scores, making them valuable for students deciding which scores to submit.
Determining a “higher” score differs from finding the best future test. A digital PSAT or initial ACT score is just a starting point. Most students continue developing skills. Those in the “judgment call” zone should consider test dates, format preferences, preparation options, and the role of National Merit before committing to a test.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between the SAT and ACT
Consider factors outlined in Adam Ingersoll’s post on choosing between the SAT and ACT. Compass directors can provide guidance, and the Essentials class helps students navigate test selection and build foundational skills. For a deeper understanding, see the Q&A below.
Understanding PSAT, SAT, and ACT Concordances
To compare digital PSAT and ACT scores, understand how digital SAT and ACT scores are compared. While covering similar topics, the tests differ significantly. A direct score equivalency doesn’t exist. Instead, a concordance links them through equipercentile linking, comparing percentiles of students who took both exams. A 90th percentile on the SAT equates to a 90th percentile on the ACT. The 2018 joint concordance from ACT and College Board, along with College Board’s statement on digital SAT score equivalence to paper SAT scores, provides the framework for comparison. PSAT scores, using the same scale as SAT scores, allow for shared concordance application.
Why No PSAT Scores Favor the SAT at the Highest ACT Levels
The digital PSAT, designed for sophomores and juniors, has slightly easier content than the digital SAT. Top SAT scores are unattainable on the PSAT, even with perfect answers. The PSAT score range (160-760 or 320-1520 total) is lower than the SAT’s (200-800 or 400-1600 total). No PSAT score matches a perfect 36 on the ACT. Students with a 34 or 35 on the ACT might consider both tests, but the PSAT isn’t challenging enough for definitive conclusions. A full SAT might be recommended in these cases.
PSAT and ACT Score Comparisons for Sophomores vs. Juniors
While the score relationship remains consistent, sophomores should be cautious about making final decisions based on the PSAT. Significant skill development can occur between the sophomore PSAT and junior year test preparation. Ideally, compare tests taken within the same timeframe. Avoid comparing an October PSAT score with a June practice ACT score from the following year, or at least consider the time difference.
