GPA and Test Scores

Many students are surprised that their school GPA scores are excellent but seem to struggle getting a good ACT or SAT score. Many are often frustrated that their 3.95 GPA does not correlate with their 26 ACT.

There are many articles referring to a simple algebra formula with a linear slope (y=mx+b) suggesting that for every decimal GPA increase you would increase certain number of points in the SAT.

We have conducted a study with thousands of applicants’ GPA and their corresponding test score, and to our surprise, the relationship is not linear. 

As you will see in the results below, the relationship is a curve leveling off above a 25 ACT (1210 SAT), where GPA between 3.9 and 4.0 get ACT scores between 25 and 36 (11 point spread on ACT, 400 point spread on SAT) where ACT between 1 and 20 (SAT 400-1050), the GPA spread is from 0 to 3.54.

This analysis is based on unweighted GPA, that is, the GPA calculated on the base grade letter A=4, B=3, C=2, D=1, F=0. We could not compare weighted GPA as different schools may add from 0.5 points to 2 points to a premium class (AP or AS typically) and others will only count certain courses.

We can partially explain the change in four factors:

• The Entrance Exam companies (ACT, SAT) grade based on a standard deviation curve to ensure only 5% of the students score above a 30 (1370 SAT)
• Not all GPA are created equal, for instance, there are some high schools known for giving their students “an easy A” on most classes and others who guard their “A” like the bees guard their queen
• Students who take advanced classes (AP, AS, Honors) may have the same GPA as another student who took the regular classes but are much better prepared for college, thus obtaining a higher test score
• Some students study for the test and obtain tutoring to learn the strategies, learn to pace themselves and manage their stress during this four hour long test, marking a significant difference from a similar peer who did not even read the instructions before entering the test room

Unweighted GPA-SAT-ACT Comparison Table

How can you improve your test scores?

1. Opt for the advanced English classes, especially those focusing on essay writing, expanding your vocabulary  and ensuring you know how to write without an auto correct.
2. Set a strategy to complete up to Calculus I in your senior year, so if you are taking Algebra I as a freshman, you won’t get there unless you take Geometry during the summer and Algebra II as a sophomore.
3. Choose for the Honors or AP/AS classes instead of regular. Sure, AP English is more work than English I, but nothing compared to the college classes you will be in a few years from now, so start getting used to it.
4. Get a tutor, athletes don’t reach the Olympics without a coach, you are not perfect in every subject, you need someone who is to guide you. The tutor will help you set strategies, manage your speed and stress as well as refresh on subjects you may have forgotten.
5. Develop executive skills to manage your time and priorities

How important is the GPA in your application?

GPA is very important, both weighted and unweighted, but the GPA alone is not enough for a competitive university to decide the acceptance of the student. Typically they will review the GPA along with the test score and the detailed life experiences of the student.

If your GPA is not ideal, there are other areas you can shine and make up for a less than stellar GPA, contact us for solutions.