Want to get the best SAT score possible? This guide will help you maximize your score.
Despite popular test-optional policies, the SAT is still a relevant exam that can show admissions committees your academic prowess. Keep reading to learn about the SAT, how to get a competitive SAT score, and more!
It’s important to understand how the SAT is scored to interpret your results!
Your SAT score is the sum of your Math and Evidence-Based Reading & Writing section scores. Each section is scored from 200 to 800, for a total possible score between 400 and 1600.
On the digital SAT, your score is based on the number of correct answers you give, but each section adapts to your performance, and raw scores are converted to scaled scores to account for differences in test difficulty.
Here is a chart summarizing the content and format of each section of the SAT.
Your SAT scores are typically available a few weeks after the test date. SAT scores must be reported from the College Board directly. When you sign up for an SAT date, you can register to send free score reports to a maximum of four target schools (and pay for extras).
If you took the SAT a while before actually applying to college, you should check to make sure your SAT scores are still valid. Some colleges set an expiration date for SAT scores, so you may need to re-take the test.
If you've completed the SAT exam and find yourself in need of an SAT to ACT score conversion, check out our automatic SAT to ACT score converter.
A good SAT score positions you competitively within your target school’s applicant pool. For most colleges, that means a score in the middle 50% range of admitted students, typically 1200–1400 for public universities and 1450+ for selective private schools. Statistically, anything above 1270 puts you in the top 25% of test-takers nationwide.
For students looking to receive a competitive score, meet with one of our SAT tutors. They'll break down important concepts and help you master the material efficiently.
So, what is a good score on the SAT for selective programs? Here’s a chart for the top 24 schools in the U.S. and their SAT score statistics.
Below, we’ll cover successful SAT score ranges for the Ivy League.
A strong SAT score for the Ivy League is typically 1500 or higher out of 1600. You can use the numbers from the above chart to calculate a great SAT score for the Ivy League.
What’s considered a competitive SAT score for Ivy League schools depends on class profile data. However, you should aim to score toward the 75th percentile for the most competitive Ivy League school on your list. That way, you’ll have competitive SAT scores for all the schools you want to attend.
The highest possible SAT score is 1600. This total comprises two sections: 800 in Math and 800 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.
The average SAT score over three years is 1000. Above-average SAT scores surpass 1200, and a score of 1350 or above puts you in the top 10% of test-takers. To be competitive at top schools, aim for a score of 650 or higher on each SAT section.
Here’s a look at SAT scores and their percentiles.
Please note: these numbers are rounded and can shift slightly each year.
Average SAT scores can vary considerably by region. If you’re applying to colleges in a different state and want to compare yourself to the standard SAT scores in that location, check out these SAT scores by state.
So, how do you get a great SAT score? If you haven’t already taken the SAT or you’re planning to retake it, these valuable tips can help you maximize your chances of success and ensure you’re ready for the SAT.
If you’re unhappy with your score, consider retaking the SAT. Invest the time to work on your weaknesses and take time to do SAT practice tests and questions.
Still have questions about your SAT scores? We’ve got you covered.
If your SAT score starts with a “14” or “15,” you’re in excellent shape for nearly any college in the country. For the absolute top tier, aim for 1500 or higher.
Yes, a 1100 SAT score is decent and can get you into many schools. This score can help you get into universities such as Georgia State University, the University of Northern Iowa, and Western Kentucky University.
Yes, a 1200 SAT score is above the national average and is considered high. This score can help you get into universities such as the University of Colorado Boulder, Auburn University, and Michigan State University.
Yes, a 1300 SAT score is considerably higher than the national average. This score can help you get into universities such as Ohio State University, Fordham University, and the University of California, Davis.
Yes, a 1400 SAT score is much higher than the national average and is considered excellent. This score can help you get into universities such as the University of Michigan, the University of Texas at Austin, and the George Washington University.
The SAT Essay is no longer offered as of 2021. The College Board discontinued the SAT Essay for all students, and it is not part of the current digital SAT.
The best possible SAT score is 1600.
Achieving a 1500 SAT score would put you in the middle 50% range of admitted students’ scores. A 1500 SAT score is good for Harvard, but a score closer to 1580 (the 75th percentile) will make you a more competitive applicant.
There’s no minimum number that can be considered a good SAT score. But if you want to attend a top-ranked school, aim for 1440-1570 to match the average applicant.
Now you better understand how the SAT is formatted and how you can prepare. You should study regularly for the SAT because the more you practice, the easier it will be. Good luck!
