You’ve taken the SAT, received your scores, and now the big question looms: How Does My Sat Score Compare? This guide will help you understand your SAT score in relation to other test-takers, determine a good score for your college goals, and offer advice if your score isn’t where you want it to be.
Understanding Your SAT Score in the National Context
The SAT is scored out of 1600, with two sections: Math (200-800) and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) (200-800). Your total score is the sum of these two section scores. A higher score generally indicates stronger performance compared to other test-takers.
To understand how your score stacks up, you need to consider percentile rankings. Your percentile tells you what percentage of students scored the same or lower than you. For instance, a 75th percentile score means you outperformed 75% of test-takers.
The average SAT score is around 1050, with average section scores of 521 for Math and 529 for EBRW. Scores typically follow a normal distribution, meaning most scores cluster around the average, with fewer students achieving very high or very low scores.
The following table showcases the 2022 SAT composite score percentiles:
| SAT Composite Score (Out of 1600) | Percentile (2022) |
|---|---|
| 1600 | 99+ |
| 1500 | 98 |
| 1400 | 93 |
| 1300 | 86 |
| 1200 | 75 |
| 1100 | 63 |
| 1050 | 53 |
| 1000 | 45 |
| 900 | 29 |
| 800 | 14 |
| 700 | 3 |
Defining a “Good” SAT Score for Your College Applications
While national comparisons are helpful, a “good” SAT score is ultimately determined by the colleges you’re targeting. A score considered excellent for one school might be below average for another.
Researching the average SAT scores of admitted students at your desired colleges is crucial. Many colleges publish the 25th and 75th percentile scores of their incoming classes. Aiming for a score at or above the 75th percentile significantly strengthens your application.
Finding Your Target SAT Score: A Step-by-Step Approach
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Identify Your Target Schools: Create a list of colleges you plan to apply to.
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Research SAT Score Ranges: For each school, search online for “[School Name] SAT scores” or “[School Name] admission requirements.” Look for the 25th and 75th percentile SAT scores.
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Set Your Goal Score: Identify the highest 75th percentile score among your target schools. This becomes your target SAT score. Achieving this score makes you competitive for all the schools on your list.
SAT Score Ranges for 50 Popular Colleges
The table below provides the 25th and 75th percentile SAT scores for 50 popular U.S. colleges:
| School | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | 1520 | 1570 |
| Harvard University | 1490 | 1580 |
| Stanford University | 1500 | 1570 |
| Yale University | 1470 | 1560 |
| University of Pennsylvania | 1500 | 1570 |
| … | … | … |
What If My SAT Score Is Lower Than Expected?
If your score is below your target, consider these options:
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Retake the SAT: With dedicated preparation and focused study, you can improve your score.
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Strategize Your College List: If your score is close to your target, you might still be competitive for some schools. Adjust your list to include more target and safety schools.
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Focus on Other Application Components: A strong GPA, compelling essays, and impactful extracurricular activities can compensate for a lower SAT score.
Conclusion: Your SAT Score and Your Future
Remember, your SAT score is just one piece of your college application. While important, it doesn’t define your potential. By understanding how your score compares, setting realistic goals, and developing a strong application strategy, you can maximize your chances of college admission success.
