What Is a Good SAT Score?

Ah, the million-dollar question, "What is a good SAT score?" It's a question that has occupied high school students across the country as they grapple with the pressures of the standardized test. 

Let's cut straight to the chase: If you've scored above the average SAT score of around 1050, you're already in the club of "good." 

Scoring the highest score possible should be your aim, but the journey is just as important. So, the first time you take the SAT, give it your best. And remember, if you don't hit your target score, you can always retake the test.

Now, take a deep breath and remember: Your SAT score is just a number, and it's not the sole deciding factor for your admission. We'll help you understand the importance of SAT scores and discuss how to interpret your SAT composite score.

Note: Many colleges and universities are now test-optional, meaning they don't require SAT scores for admission. So, even if you don't have the best SAT score, don't let it deter you from applying. Your overall application, including your extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations, holds significant value in the admissions process.

SAT score ranges explained

Before we dive into what makes a good SAT score, let's understand the SAT score range. The SAT test consists of two primary sections: evidence-based reading and writing (EBRW), and math, each scored on a scale of 200 to 800. The total score, a sum of the section scores, ranges from 400 to 1600.

There's no definitive answer as to what makes a good SAT score, as it depends on your goals and preferences. However, the CollegeBoard provides some benchmarks based on the college readiness of students. 

Here's a cheat sheet to help you understand where your score stands:

• Below average: Total score less than 1050
• Average: Total score around 1050
• Above average: Total score ranging from 1051 to 1349
• Excellent: Total score 1350 and higher

However, the realm of SAT scores is more nuanced. You'll need to delve into percentiles to fully grasp your standing. For instance, if your score ranks in the 75th percentile, it means you've performed better than 75% of test takers. Conversely, landing in the 25th percentile means there's some work to do, as 75% of test takers scored higher. 

But what's truly average? That's where the 50th percentile comes in, representing the mid-point of test scores.

For example, for the class of 2019, the average SAT score was 1050, and the 90th percentile score was 1350. This means 90% of students scored below 1350, and 10% scored above it. A score above 1050 could be considered above average, and a score above 1350 could be considered excellent.

Can you retake the SAT test?

Yes! You can retake the SAT test as many times as you wish. The CollegeBoard, the SAT's orchestrator, encourages test takers to attempt the SAT twice - during their junior year's spring and senior year's fall. You're only restricted by the annual test dates.

Scheduled seven times a year, the SAT test dates fall in August, October, November, December, March, May, and June. To get your preferred test date and location, we recommend early registration (about a month in advance). 

The SAT retake cost is the same as your first try, which is $60. Fee waivers are available for eligible low-income students, who can take the SAT twice for free and get other benefits.

Here are a few pros and cons to consider when it comes to retaking the SAT:

Pros:

• Chance for a higher score. High school students may see a score improvement in their second attempt.
• SAT superscoring. Many colleges follow the "SAT superscore" concept, which means that your highest section scores across multiple attempts are combined to form the highest possible composite score.

Cons:

• Expense. A registration fee applies for every SAT attempt.
• Effort. More attempts mean more time spent on SAT prep.

When you're aiming to hit your dream school's target SAT score, it's always helpful to use test prep resources. From prep courses to practice tests, these tools can guide you toward understanding the math, reading, and writing sections on a deeper level, allowing you to improve your percentile ranking.

How many times should you retake the SAT test?

There's no magic number for SAT attempts, but twice seems to be a commonly agreed-on suggestion. Superscoring can be a game-changer. 

For instance, if your SAT math score shone on your first attempt, but the EBRW not as much, then you could focus more on EBRW in your retake. This way, your higher scores from different attempts are merged to produce an impressive superscore.

However, check each target school's testing policy on superscoring since not all schools follow it.

How does your SAT score affect college admissions?>

Your SAT score isn't just a number - it's a reflection of your academic prowess and potential, and it plays a significant role in the college admissions process. When you submit your college application, your SAT score, GPA, high school records, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and personal essays, all paint a holistic picture of your aptitude. 

An above-average SAT score can significantly increase your chances of admission, especially at selective schools.

What SAT scores do Ivy League schools look for?

If your dream school is one of the Ivy League stalwarts, then you're not just aspiring for a degree but a transformative journey that's destined to hone your intellectual prowess. 

But what does it take to be part of these prestigious institutions? Well first, you've got to ace your SATs - typically with an SAT score in the range of 1440 to 1580. 

Let's get a detailed look at the average SAT scores these elite universities tend to look for in their prospective students.

• Harvard University. 1520 (25th percentile at 1460; 75th percentile at 1580)
• Yale University. 1520 (75th percentile at 1580; 25th percentile at 1460)
• Columbia University. 1517 (25th percentile at 1460; 75th percentile at 1570)
• Princeton University. 1506 (25th percentile at 1450; 75th percentile at 1570)
• Dartmouth College. 1500 (25th percentile at 1440; 75th percentile at 1560)

Remember, while your SAT score is crucial, it's only one part of your application. These universities value a well-rounded student who demonstrates intellectual curiosity, passion, and a commitment to making a positive impact. 

So, while you're working hard to achieve these impressive scores, don't forget to invest in extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community service, as they're equally vital in setting you apart in the admissions process.

What schools accept low SAT scores?

Worried that your below-average SAT score might close all doors? Fear not! There are several colleges that either accept low SAT scores or emphasize other aspects of your application. 

Here are some examples with their average SAT scores:

• Mount Carmel College of Nursing (average SAT score of 1050)
• Brigham Young University-Idaho (average SAT score of 1132)
• Grove City College (average SAT score of 1250)
• South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (average SAT score of 1266)
• Missouri University of Science and Technology (average SAT score of 1328)

Don't forget about test-optional schools. Many institutions have recently chosen to relax their standardized testing requirements, often eliminating them entirely, while placing more emphasis on other aspects of the college application. 

But don't let this make you complacent because scoring high on your SATs can still open the doors to merit scholarships and increase your chances of becoming part of the positive side of the acceptance rate at your dream school.

Need help finding the best school for you? Use College Rover

There you have it - everything you need to understand your SAT score and how it can shape your college admissions journey. Whether you're eyeing an Ivy League or exploring other enriching educational avenues, your SAT score is just a part of your larger narrative. 

Keep in mind that schools often consider your application in its entirety, including extracurricular activities, leadership roles, letters of recommendation, personal essays, and more.

Feeling overwhelmed? Let College Rover guide you through the process. Not only can we help you research schools and programs, but you can also check to see if the college you're interested in is test-optional. We're dedicated to providing you with all the information you need to find the best fit for your academic journey. Happy exploring!

College Rover gets the majority of its data directly from the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). The DOE publishing schedule "lags" the most current data which some colleges post on their official websites. This may cause there to be a difference in the data you see on College Rover and an individual college website. College Rover's website is updated as the DOE data becomes available and is configured for the College Rover website.