IQ vs. SAT/ACT Scores: Is There a Correlation?

Every year, millions of high school students sit for the SAT or ACT. While these tests are designed to measure "college readiness," a common question persists: Are they actually IQ tests in disguise?

If you scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT, does that mean you have a genius-level IQ? In this guide, we analyze the data, the history, and the science behind the correlation between standardized testing and general intelligence.

Research suggests a strong statistical link between standardized test results and general cognitive ability.

The Historical Link: SAT as an IQ Test

The connection isn't accidental. The original Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) was largely adapted from the Army Alpha IQ test used during World War I. For decades, the SAT was effectively a high-ceiling IQ test designed to identify students with high raw cognitive potential regardless of their social class.

However, in recent years, the College Board has shifted the focus from "Aptitude" (natural ability) to "Achievement" (what you learned in school). Despite this shift, the correlation remains statistically significant.

The Correlation Data: What the Numbers Say

Psychometric studies have consistently found a correlation of approximately **0.8** between SAT scores and general intelligence (g-factor). This is considered a very strong correlation in psychology.

Estimated Conversion: SAT/ACT to IQ Score

While you cannot get an "official" IQ score from a college entrance exam, we can estimate where a score lands on the standard IQ bell curve (Mean=100, SD=15).

Note: This table applies to modern tests (post-2016 SAT) and provides a rough estimation.

SAT Score (Total)	ACT Composite	Estimated IQ Range	Percentile
1500 - 1600	34 - 36	135+ (Very Superior)	99th
1400 - 1490	30 - 33	120 - 134 (Superior)	91st - 98th
1200 - 1390	25 - 29	110 - 119 (High Average)	75th - 90th
1050 - 1190	20 - 24	100 - 109 (Average)	50th - 74th
Below 1050	Below 20	Below 100	Below Average

Why They Aren't The Same Thing

Even with a high correlation, an SAT score is **not** a perfect substitute for a clinical IQ test. Here is why:

Figure 2: The conceptual difference between IQ (a measure of potential and processing power) and academic tests like the SAT/ACT (a measure of achievement and learned knowledge).

• Preparation Bias: You can study for the SAT. You can take prep courses to boost your score. A true IQ test, like the Wechsler Scale, is designed to be resistant to studying.
• Subject Limits: The ACT/SAT focuses heavily on Math and English. They do not measure spatial reasoning, short-term memory, or processing speed—key components of a full IQ profile.
• Ceiling Effect: Standardized tests often cannot differentiate between a "smart" student (130 IQ) and a "profoundly gifted" genius (150+ IQ) because the questions aren't difficult enough to measure the extreme upper end.

Mensa and Standardized Tests

Historically, Mensa accepted SAT and GRE scores as proof of intelligence. However, for tests taken after 1994 (SAT) or present day, Mensa generally **no longer accepts** these scores for admission.

To qualify for high-IQ societies today, you generally need to take an approved, supervised intelligence test and score in the top 2%. You can learn more about these requirements on our Mensa Minimum IQ page.

Final Thoughts: What Is Your True Potential?

Your SAT or ACT score is a great indicator of academic achievement and college readiness. It gives a strong hint about your cognitive horsepower, but it doesn't tell the whole story.

If you scored highly on your college boards, there is a good chance you have a high IQ. But to know for sure—and to see your breakdown in logic, spatial reasoning, and memory—you need a dedicated assessment.