Good SAT Scores As Per 100 Schools

College admissions decisions often consider standardized testing as a crucial factor. The significance of these tests varies depending on the student and the college. Knowing how you compare to other applicants can aid you in better preparing for the admission process.

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What constitutes a good SAT score?

The SAT score range is from 400 to 1600 for the total score, with two sections: Math and Reading & Writing, each scored from 200 to 800.

A higher score means you performed better compared to other test takers. But what's considered a "good" score?

To figure out what's good, you should understand how SAT scoring works. Your total score and section scores correspond to a percentile ranking. The percentile tells you the percentage of students you scored the same as or better than. For instance, a 60th percentile score means you did better than 60% of all test takers!

The SAT test has an average score, also known as the mean, of 1050. The test is designed so that this average hovers around 1000 on the 1600-point scale, with about 500 points for each section. The typical score for the Math section is 521, and for the Reading and Writing section, it's 529.

SAT scores are distributed in a way that forms a normal curve. This means most students score close to the middle of the scale, around 1000, which is halfway between the lowest possible score of 400 and the highest possible score of 1600. Fewer students score at the extreme ends of the scale, either very high or very low.

Ideal Scores and Percentiles for the SAT Exam

The chart below displays SAT scores and their percentiles, using the latest information from the College Board.

What SAT Scores Do Colleges Consider Good?

Firstly, it's essential to understand that what qualifies as a good SAT score for colleges can differ. There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer because it depends on the university you're applying to. A score of 1400 might be considered high for certain schools, while for others, especially those in the top 20 rankings, it could be seen as relatively low.

Typically, the most competitive and highly ranked colleges seek applicants with some of the highest SAT scores.

Over 1,900 colleges planning for fall 2024 have decided not to make standardized tests mandatory, says the National Center for Fair and Open Testing. However, even though some schools don't need test scores, experts suggest that having a good score can still make a job application more impressive.

Explore the table below to compare SAT scores at the top 25 universities in the United States.

What if you're not looking to apply to just the top 25 schools?

To assist you, we've collected SAT score details for 76 more schools.

FAQs-

Q.1) Do different schools have different expectations for SAT scores?

Ans: Yes, schools have varying expectations for SAT scores. Top-tier universities may require higher scores, while other institutions may consider a broader range. It's essential to check the admission criteria for each school.

Q.2) How can I find out the SAT score requirements for a specific school?

Ans: Visit the official website of the school or contact their admissions office. Many schools publish their SAT score ranges for admitted students, which can provide valuable guidance.

Q.3) Is it more important to focus on the overall SAT score or individual section scores?

Ans: Both overall and section scores are important, but some schools may prioritize certain sections over others. Research the admission policies of the schools you're interested in to understand their preferences.

Q.4) Are there schools that don't require SAT scores for admission?

Ans: Yes, an increasing number of schools are adopting test-optional policies. Check with individual institutions to see if they have waived the SAT requirement and if submitting scores is optional.

Q.5) Can a high SAT score compensate for a lower GPA, and vice versa?

Ans: While a strong SAT score can positively impact your application, it's not the sole factor. Schools consider a holistic approach, taking into account GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters.