What is a Good SAT Score? What is the Average SAT Score in 2024-2025? SAT Scores Range and Percentiles

Get the SAT Scores You Need for 2024-2025!

Want to know what makes a great SAT score in 2025, and how your score stacks up? Check out the latest SAT score averages for 2024-2025 based on different factors like gender, education level, and more. We’ve also got the SAT score range, percentiles, and what it takes to get into Ivy League schools!

What Are SAT Scores?

The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) is your ticket to college! It’s a test that helps colleges see how ready you are for higher education. Your SAT score shows your skills in reading, writing, and math—all crucial for college success.

Colleges use SAT scores to compare students from different backgrounds, award scholarships, and determine admissions. A strong SAT score can open doors to top universities and great opportunities!

Understanding the SAT Score Range,

Your SAT score falls somewhere between 400 and 1600, with two key sections:

• Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): 200–800
• Math: 200–800
• Total SAT Score: 400–1600 (sum of both sections)

Besides your main score, you’ll also get subscores and cross-test scores that show more details about your strengths. While these don’t add to your overall score, they help highlight areas where you shine!

Scoring well on the SAT can boost your college applications and help you earn scholarships. Keep practicing, and aim high!

The maximum composite score a student can achieve is 1600.

SAT Section Scores.

The SAT is broken down into two primary sections:

1. Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW):
   • Reading Test: Measures comprehension of written passages, vocabulary in context, and evidence-based reasoning.
   • Writing and Language Test: Evaluates grammar, usage, and rhetorical skills through editing and improving passages.
2. Math:
   • Covers topics like algebra, geometry, trigonometry, data analysis, and problem-solving.
   • Divided into two parts: one allowing the use of a calculator and one without.

Both sections are scored on a 200-800 scale. The sum of the EBRW and Math sections gives the overall SAT composite score, which ranges from 400 to 1600.

Understanding Your SAT Score.

Understanding your SAT score involves more than just looking at the total score. Your score report will include detailed information that helps you see how well you did in each section and area tested. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Section Scores: You’ll get separate scores for EBRW and Math, each ranging from 200 to 800. These two scores are combined to create your total score.
2. Subscores: You’ll receive subscores for specific skill areas such as:
   • Command of Evidence
   • Words in Context
   • Expression of Ideas
   • Standard English Conventions
   • Heart of Algebra
   • Problem-Solving and Data Analysis

   These subscores are reported on a scale of 1 to 15 and can help you identify strengths and weaknesses in specific areas.

3. Percentiles: The percentile rank tells you how you performed relative to other test-takers. For example, if you score in the 75th percentile, you performed better than 75% of students who took the test.
4. Cross-Test Scores: These scores (ranging from 10 to 40) reflect how well you performed on questions related to History/Social Studies and Science, which appear across both the Reading, Writing, and Math sections.

What is the Average SAT Score in 2024?

The average SAT scores for 2024:

According to the College Board, the mean average SAT scores in 2024 were:

• Total score: 1024
• Math: 505
• Reading and Writing: 519

What is a Good SAT Score in 2024?

A “good” SAT score depends on the schools you’re applying to. However, here’s a general guideline:

• Excellent Score: 1450–1600
  • Competitive for top-tier schools (Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, etc.)
• Good Score: 1300–1450
  • Competitive for highly selective schools
• Above Average: 1150–1300
  • Competitive for less selective schools
• Average Score: 1025–1150
  • Competitive for many public universities
• Below Average: Below 1025
  • May still be acceptable for some schools, but other parts of your application (GPA, essays, extracurriculars) would need to be strong.

Ultimately, a good SAT score is one that meets or exceeds the average score range for your target schools.

Average SAT Scores in 2024 According to Gender, Race and Education Level.

Category	Number of Test Takers	Percent	Mean ERW Score	Mean Math Score	Met Both Benchmarks	Met ERW Benchmark	Met Math Benchmark	Met None
Total Test Takers	1,973,891	100%	519	505	39%	62%	41%	36%
Took Essay	250,976	13%	495	478	30%	54%	32%	44%
American Indian/Alaska Native	14,792	1%	449	432	14%	35%	15%	63%
Asian	200,385	10%	599	629	74%	85%	79%	11%
Black/African American	228,688	12%	467	440	18%	43%	19%	56%
Hispanic/Latino	483,640	25%	481	458	23%	49%	25%	49%
Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander	3,498	0%	475	452	21%	47%	23%	52%
White	725,962	37%	551	532	51%	76%	52%	22%
Two or More Races	70,800	4%	556	534	50%	75%	51%	23%
Female	990,760	50%	522	496	37%	64%	38%	35%
Male	971,405	49%	516	514	42%	60%	44%	37%
Another/ No Response	11,726	1%	556	511	46%	71%	47%	28%
English Only	1,029,787	52%	536	514	44%	70%	45%	29%
English and Another Language	325,634	16%	534	530	45%	66%	48%	32%
Another Language	216,476	11%	522	537	45%	62%	50%	34%
No High School Diploma	115,871	6%	457	446	18%	39%	21%	59%
High School Diploma	375,167	19%	491	470	26%	54%	28%	44%
Associate Degree	83,708	4%	512	488	33%	64%	35%	34%
Bachelor’s Degree	479,404	24%	560	548	55%	80%	57%	18%
Graduate Degree	401,330	20%	597	589	68%	86%	70%	12%

What was the Average SAT Score in 2023?

According to the College Board, the mean average SAT scores in 2023 were:

• Total score: 1028
• Math: 508
• Reading and Writing: 520

Average SAT Scores History for Past Years: 1972-2024.

Year	Total Average SAT Score
1972	1039
1973	1029
1974	1026
1975	1010
1976	1006
1977	1003
1978	1001
1979	998
1980	994
1981	994
1982	997
1983	997
1984	1001
1985	1009
1986	1009
1987	1008
1988	1006
1989	1006
1990	1001
1991	999
1992	1001
1993	1003
1994	1003
1995	1010
1996	1013
1997	1016
1998	1017
1999	1016
2000	1016
2001	1020
2002	1018
2003	1020
2004	1026
2005	1026
2006	1028
2007	1518
2008	1508
2009	1507
2010	1505
2011	1505
2012	1504
2013	1499
2014	1484
2015	1060
2016	1067
2017	1059
2018	1051
2019	1061
2020	1050
2021	1028
2022	1050
2023	1028
2024	1024

 

The SAT scores presented from 1972 to 2024 reveal several key trends and shifts, which can be attributed to changes in the structure of the test, societal factors, and educational policies over the years:

1. SAT Scores in 2007.

• Total Average Score: 1518
• Reason for Change:
  • The average SAT score increased significantly in 2007 compared to previous years. This was due in part to a revised SAT format that was introduced in 2005.
  • In 2005, the College Board implemented a significant redesign of the SAT, adding a Writing section, and adjusting the structure and scoring method. As a result, the SAT had three main sections: Math, Critical Reading, and Writing, each scored between 200-800, which increased the total possible score from 1600 to 2400.
  • The 2007 score increase reflects the new scoring methodology, which inflated the overall numbers, leading to higher total average scores compared to earlier years. The writing section was new and its impact on overall test scores caused a considerable adjustment in the total average.

SAT Scores in 2015.

• Total Average Score: 1060
• Reason for Change:
  • By 2015, the SAT had undergone a substantial drop in average scores compared to the inflated values seen in the 2007-2010 period, eventually stabilizing.
  • The College Board announced another major revision to the SAT in 2014, with changes rolling out in 2016. The test reverted to a total score range of 1600, combining Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), while eliminating the mandatory Writing section.
  • The average SAT score of 1060 in 2015 reflects the beginning of this transition, as the test started to align more closely with high school curricula and placed a greater emphasis on skills deemed essential for college readiness.
  • The drop in scores also suggests a decrease in overall student performance during the transition period, possibly as students and educators adjusted to the new expectations of the revised test.

SAT Scores in 2024.

• Total Average Score: 1024
• Reason for Change:
  • The 2024 average SAT score marks another decrease compared to earlier years, continuing a decline seen post-pandemic, as well as coinciding with the introduction of the digital SAT.
  • In 2024, the College Board launched a new version of the SAT that is entirely digital. The digital SAT is shorter, lasting about 2 hours and 14 minutes instead of the previous 3-hour duration, and incorporates an adaptive testing model. The shorter length and adaptive model could potentially affect average scores as students adapt to the new format.
  • Additionally, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continue to be visible in the performance of students. The disruptions in education during the pandemic led to gaps in learning for many students, contributing to a decline in average scores, as fewer students met the Math and EBRW benchmarks for college readiness.
  • The overall lower score may also reflect the increased access to the SAT as the College Board moved towards making the test more accessible to a diverse range of students, including those from under-resourced schools who may not have had access to the same level of preparatory support.

Pandemic and Digital Transition (2020-2024):

The pandemic had a significant impact on learning outcomes, contributing to a decline in SAT performance. The shift to the digital SAT in 2024 also reflects a period of transition, with scores dropping to 1024 as students and schools adapted to the new digital, adaptive format.

How Does the New Digital SAT Test Differ from the Old SAT Test?

In 2024, the College Board introduced a digital SAT, which has a few key differences from the traditional paper-based version:

1. Adaptive Format: The digital SAT uses an adaptive testing model. This means that the test adjusts the difficulty of questions based on the student’s performance in earlier parts of the test.
2. Shorter Test Duration: The digital SAT is shorter, lasting about 2 hours and 14 minutes compared to the previous 3 hours for the paper-based test.
3. Faster Results: Scores for the digital SAT are released more quickly, within days rather than weeks.
4. Streamlined Questions: The digital SAT has fewer questions per section, but they are designed to provide the same insights into a student’s academic readiness.
5. Security and Flexibility: Students can take the test on a computer or tablet, and the adaptive nature of the test prevents cheating by ensuring that each student gets a unique test experience.

Overall, the digital SAT is designed to be more accessible, student-friendly, and efficient.

How Long Does the SAT Test Take?

The 2024 digital SAT takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete. This is a significant reduction in test length from the previous 3-hour paper-based version. Here’s a breakdown of the new digital SAT:

• Reading and Writing Section: 64 minutes (two stages of 32 minutes each)
• Math Section: 70 minutes (two stages of 35 minutes each)

This includes short breaks between sections, but the overall experience is streamlined to reduce fatigue while maintaining accuracy in testing students’ skills.

When Are SAT Scores Released? What Time Do SAT Scores Come Out?

SAT scores are generally released 2–3 weeks after the test date. However, with the new digital SAT, scores are expected to be available within days due to the efficiency of the digital format. This is much faster than the paper-based version.

Scores are typically released online through the College Board’s portal early in the morning, usually by 8:00 AM Eastern Time on the release date. You’ll receive an email notification when your scores are available.

SAT Percentile Chart for Composite SAT Scores.

Percentiles show how a student’s SAT score compares to other test-takers. Here’s a sample SAT percentile chart for composite scores.

Here is a detailed SAT Percentile Chart with more percentile breaks, including 99+, 99, 98, 96, 95, 90, 88, 85, 80, 75, and then every 5 percentile down to 5, with 2 and 1 percentiles included. The scores reflect approximate ranges for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), Math, and Total composite scores based on historical data:

Percentile	EBRW Score Range	Math Score Range	Total Composite Score Range
99+ (Best)	760 and above	790 and above	1530 and above
99	750-760	780-790	1510-1530
98	740-750	770-780	1490-1510
96	720-740	750-770	1460-1490
95	710-720	740-750	1440-1460
90 (Excellent)	670-680	690-700	1350-1370
88	650-670	670-690	1320-1350
85	640-650	660-670	1300-1320
80	620-640	640-660	1260-1300
75 (Good)	600-610	600-620	1200-1240
70	590-600	590-600	1180-1200
65	570-590	570-590	1140-1180
60	550-570	550-570	1100-1140
55	530-550	530-550	1080-1100
50 (Average)	520-530	510-520	1050-1060
45	500-520	490-510	1020-1050
40	480-500	470-490	980-1020
35	460-480	450-470	950-980
30	450-460	430-450	920-950
25 (Below Average)	440-450	430-440	870-900
20	410-440	400-430	820-870
15	390-410	380-400	770-820
10 (Poorer)	370-390	350-370	720-770
5	340-370	320-350	690-720
2	330 and below	310 and below	670 and below
1 (Poorest)	310 and below	300 and below	650 and below

Explanation:

99th percentile score means you scored higher than 99% of students, while a 50th percentile score is average, meaning you scored better than about half of the test-takers.

SAT Scores – Percentile Chart for Math and Reading-Writing.

We have added a SAT Score Percentile chart that shows percentiles for both the Math and Reading-Writing parts. Note, that the SAT score percentiles vary across the two Reading & Writing and Math sections. To understand the SAT Score Range, and your performance, look at both your Reading & Writing and Math scores, and their percentiles.

SAT Scores Percentiles Chart and Grade Letter Equivalent.

If you are not used to SAT scores and what a ‘good’, ‘average’ and ‘bad’ SAT score is, we have put together this chart that convert SAT scores to percentile scores, and the equivalent Letter Grade according to percentiles.

SAT Score	Numerical Class Grade	SAT Score Percentiles (%)	Class Letter Grade
1560-1600	100.0	99+	A+
1520-1550	99.9	98-99+	A+
1490-1510	99.8	97-98	A+
1465-1480	99.7	96-97	A+
1450-1460	99.6	96	A+
1430-1440	99.5	95	A+
1420	99.4	94	A+
1410	99.3	94	A+
1390-1400	99.2	93	A+
1387	99.1	92	A+
1370-1380	99.0	91	A+
1367	98.9	91	A+
1350-1360	98.8	90	A+
1347	98.7	89	A+
1340	98.6	89	A+
1333	98.5	88	A+
1327	98.4	88	A+
1320	98.3	87	A+
1310	98.2	87	A+
1300	98.1	86	A+
1293	97.9	85	A+
1287	97.8	85	A+
1280	97.7	85	A+
1273	97.6	84	A+
1267	97.5	83	A+
1260	97.4	83	A+
1253	97.2	82	A+
1247	97.1	81	A+
1240	97.0	81	A
1233	96.8	80	A
1227	96.7	79	A
1220	96.5	79	A
1213	96.4	77	A
1207	96.2	76	A
1200	96.0	76	A
1193	95.9	75	A
1187	95.7	74	A
1180	95.5	73	A
1173	95.3	73	A
1167	95.1	71	A
1160	94.9	71	A
1153	94.7	70	A
1147	94.5	69	A
1140	94.3	69	A
1133	94.1	67	A
1127	93.9	66	A
1120	93.7	66	A
1110	93.3	64	A
1100	93.0	63	A-
1093	92.7	61	A-
1087	92.5	60	A-
1080	92.2	60	A-
1073	91.9	58	A-
1067	91.7	57	A-
1060	91.4	57	A-
1053	91.1	55	A-
1047	90.8	54	A-
1040	90.5	54	A-
1033	90.2	52	A-
1027	89.9	51	B+
1020	89.6	51	B+
1013	89.3	49	B+
1007	89.0	47	B+
1000	88.7	47	B+
993	88.4	46	B+
987	88.1	46	B+
980	87.8	44	B+
973	87.5	43	B+
967	87.2	41	B
960	86.9	41	B
953	86.6	40	B
947	86.2	40	B
940	85.9	38	B
933	85.6	37	B
927	85.3	37	B
920	84.9	35	B
913	84.6	33	B
907	84.3	32	B
900	83.9	32	B
893	83.6	30	B
887	83.2	30	B
880	82.9	29	B-
873	82.5	27	B-
867	82.1	26	B-
860	81.7	26	B-
853	81.3	24	B-
847	80.9	22	B-
840	80.4	22	B-
833	80.0	21	C+
827	79.5	19	C+
820	79.0	19	C+
813	78.5	18	C+
807	78.0	16	C+
800	77.5	16	C+
793	77.0	15	C
787	76.5	13	C
780	76.0	13	C
773	75.5	12	C
767	75.0	12	C
760	74.5	11	C
753	74.0	10	C
747	73.5	9	C
740	73.0	8	C-
733	72.4	7	C-
727	71.9	7	C-
720	71.3	6	C-
713	70.6	5	C-
707	69.8	5	D+
700	69.0	4	D+
693	68.1	3	D+
687	67.3	3	D+
680	66.4	3	D
673	65.5	2	D
667	64.6	2	D
660	63.6	2	D
653	62.5	1	D
647	61.2	1	D
640	59.3	1	F
633	57.2	1	F
627	55.2	1-	F
620	53.1	1-	F
613	51.2	1-	F
607	49.2	1-	F
600	47.3	1-	F
593	45.4	1-	F
587	43.5	1-	F
580	41.7	1-	F
573	39.9	1-	F
567	38.1	1-	F
560	36.3	1-	F
553	34.6	1-	F
547	32.8	1-	F
540	31.1	1-	F
533	29.5	1-	F
527	27.9	1-	F
520	26.4	1-	F
513	24.8	1-	F
507	23.4	1-	F
500	21.9	1-	F
493	20.4	1-	F
487	18.9	1-	F
480	17.5	1-	F
473	16.1	1-	F
467	14.7	1-	F
460	13.4	1-	F
453	12.1	1-	F
447	10.9	1-	F
440	9.7	1-	F
433	8.6	1-	F
427	7.7	1-	F
420	6.6	1-	F
413	5.7	1-	F
407	5.0	1-	F
400	3.2	1-	F

 

The distribution of SAT scores and class grades is different, with a higher resolution at the top of the SAT scale. For example, both a 1250 and a 1600 on the SAT map to an A+, highlighting that SAT scores provide more differentiation at higher levels compared to class grades. While class grades and SAT scores are similar in distinguishing middle-level students, they differ significantly in measuring exceptional performance. Additionally, SAT scores rarely fall below 680, similar to how failing grades in classes are rare.

Mapping SAT scores to class grades is possible but not precise. SATs and class grades assess different things: the SAT is a short, standardized, multiple-choice test, whereas class grades are based on ongoing assessments involving interaction with teachers and peers. Additionally, class grading standards vary greatly between subjects and teachers, making it an imperfect comparison to SAT scores.

What is a Good Score for Ivy League Colleges and Universities?

Below we have compiled a table that provides the SAT score requirements for the top 50 schools in the United States. These values represent the middle 50% range of SAT scores, meaning that 25% of admitted students scored below this range, and 25% scored above it. The scores are split into the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math sections.

SAT Score Requirements for the Top 50 Colleges and Universities in the USA:

Rank	University	SAT Score Range (EBRW)	SAT Score Range (Math)	Total SAT Score Range (Middle 50%)
1	Princeton University	740 – 800	750 – 800	1490 – 1600
2	Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)	730 – 780	780 – 800	1510 – 1580
3	Harvard University	730 – 790	740 – 800	1470 – 1590
4	Stanford University	720 – 780	740 – 800	1460 – 1580
5	Yale University	740 – 790	740 – 800	1480 – 1590
6	University of Chicago	730 – 790	750 – 800	1480 – 1590
7	Columbia University	730 – 790	740 – 800	1470 – 1590
8	California Institute of Technology (Caltech)	750 – 800	780 – 800	1530 – 1600
9	University of Pennsylvania	720 – 780	740 – 790	1460 – 1570
10	Northwestern University	720 – 770	740 – 790	1460 – 1560
11	Johns Hopkins University	730 – 780	740 – 790	1470 – 1570
12	Dartmouth College	720 – 770	730 – 790	1450 – 1560
13	Brown University	720 – 780	740 – 790	1460 – 1570
14	Vanderbilt University	720 – 770	740 – 790	1460 – 1560
15	Rice University	730 – 780	740 – 790	1470 – 1570
16	Washington University in St. Louis	720 – 770	740 – 800	1460 – 1570
17	Cornell University	700 – 760	720 – 780	1420 – 1540
18	University of Notre Dame	710 – 770	720 – 780	1430 – 1550
19	University of California, Berkeley	680 – 750	690 – 780	1370 – 1530
20	University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)	680 – 740	690 – 780	1370 – 1520
21	Emory University	710 – 770	710 – 770	1420 – 1540
22	University of Michigan, Ann Arbor	680 – 750	700 – 780	1380 – 1530
23	Georgetown University	710 – 770	700 – 760	1410 – 1530
24	University of Virginia	690 – 740	700 – 770	1390 – 1510
25	Carnegie Mellon University	720 – 760	760 – 800	1480 – 1560
26	University of Southern California	700 – 760	700 – 770	1400 – 1530
27	University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill	660 – 730	670 – 750	1330 – 1480
28	Wake Forest University	690 – 740	700 – 760	1390 – 1500
29	New York University (NYU)	690 – 740	700 – 770	1390 – 1510
30	University of Florida	660 – 730	670 – 750	1330 – 1480
31	Tufts University	710 – 760	720 – 780	1430 – 1540
32	University of Rochester	670 – 740	680 – 770	1350 – 1510
33	Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)	680 – 730	720 – 780	1400 – 1510
34	Boston College	670 – 740	690 – 760	1360 – 1500
35	University of Wisconsin-Madison	640 – 710	650 – 740	1290 – 1450
36	University of Texas at Austin	620 – 700	630 – 720	1250 – 1420
37	Northeastern University	690 – 750	700 – 770	1390 – 1520
38	Boston University	670 – 740	680 – 760	1350 – 1500
39	University of Georgia	640 – 710	650 – 730	1290 – 1440
40	Ohio State University	610 – 690	620 – 700	1230 – 1390
41	Purdue University	600 – 680	610 – 700	1210 – 1380
42	University of Miami	650 – 720	660 – 730	1310 – 1450
43	Michigan State University	590 – 660	600 – 680	1190 – 1340
44	Penn State University	610 – 680	620 – 700	1230 – 1380
45	Syracuse University	610 – 680	620 – 690	1230 – 1370
46	University of Connecticut	620 – 690	630 – 700	1250 – 1390
47	University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign	630 – 700	650 – 740	1280 – 1440
48	University of Washington	620 – 690	630 – 720	1250 – 1410
49	Indiana University Bloomington	600 – 670	610 – 690	1210 – 1360
50	University of Maryland, College Park	640 – 710	650 – 730	1290 – 1440

General SAT Score Ranges for the Top 51-100 Schools:

• 51-75: SAT Total Score Range (Middle 50%) generally falls between 1200 – 1400.
• 76-100: SAT Total Score Range (Middle 50%) generally falls between 1100 – 1300.

These ranges are based on historical data and can fluctuate year to year. They are intended to provide a general guide for prospective students, but it is always best to check each university’s website for the most current and specific admission requirements. Additionally, universities consider various other factors beyond SAT scores for admissions, such as GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters.

Notes:

• Total SAT Score Range (Middle 50%): This represents the middle 50% of scores for admitted students, meaning half of the admitted students scored within this range.
• These ranges are based on data provided by the universities and may change annually, and are based on the 2023-2024 admissions cycle. Applicants are encouraged to check the latest requirements directly from the university websites.
• These schools are highly competitive, and having an SAT score within or above the range significantly increases the likelihood of being accepted, but other factors such as GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations are also considered.

SAT Scores – FAQ.

Frequently asked questions and answers about SAT Scores.

What Does SAT Stand For?

The SAT originally stood for “Scholastic Aptitude Test” but has since evolved and is no longer an acronym. It is simply referred to as the SAT. It was developed to measure students’ readiness for college and is widely used as part of the college admissions process in the United States.

What Does the SAT Measure?

The SAT measures a student’s readiness for college by assessing key academic skills:

Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): This section tests reading comprehension, grammar, vocabulary in context, and the ability to analyze passages critically.
Math: The Math section measures proficiency in algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and some elements of geometry and trigonometry. The test aims to evaluate a student’s skills in areas that are crucial for academic success in college.

What Is the Format of the SAT?

The SAT is divided into two main sections:

Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW):
Reading Test: Consists of passages with multiple-choice questions that assess reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical reasoning.
Writing and Language Test: Involves editing and improving passages to test grammar, usage, and rhetorical skills.
Math:
Consists of two parts: Math with Calculator and Math without Calculator.
Includes topics such as algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and trigonometry.

The SAT also had an optional Essay section, but it was discontinued in 2021.

What Is the Scoring Range for the SAT?

The total SAT score ranges from 400 to 1600, consisting of:

Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): 200 to 800 points
Math: 200 to 800 points

The two sections are combined to provide the overall score.

How Are SAT Scores Calculated?

Raw Score: The SAT is scored by calculating the number of correct answers (raw score). There is no penalty for wrong answers.
Scaled Score: The raw scores for EBRW and Math are then converted to scaled scores ranging from 200 to 800 for each section. The scaling process accounts for differences in difficulty between different test versions, ensuring fairness.
The total score is the sum of the scaled scores from EBRW and Math, with a range of 400 to 1600.

How Do Percentiles Work in SAT Scores?

Percentiles help compare a student’s performance against others:

For example, scoring in the 90th percentile means that the student scored higher than 90% of all test-takers.
Percentiles are provided in score reports to give context to where a student stands relative to other students.

What Is a Good SAT Score?

A “good” SAT score depends on the colleges a student is applying to.
Top-tier universities (e.g., Ivy League schools) often expect scores in the range of 1450-1600.
A score of 1200-1400 is considered competitive for many public and private universities.
The national average SAT score is typically around 1050.

What Is the Average SAT Score?

The average SAT score for recent years has been around 1050. This average is the sum of the average EBRW score (about 530) and the average Math score (about 520). The average can vary slightly depending on the testing year and the student population taking the exam.

What Is the SAT Benchmark?

The SAT benchmarks are scores that indicate a student’s likelihood of success in college-level courses:

ERW Benchmark: A score of 480 indicates college readiness in reading and writing.
Math Benchmark: A score of 530 indicates college readiness in mathematics.

Meeting these benchmarks suggests that a student is prepared to succeed in entry-level college courses.

How Long Is the SAT?

The SAT takes approximately 3 hours to complete:

Reading Test: 65 minutes
Writing and Language Test: 35 minutes
Math Test: 80 minutes
In addition, there are short breaks between sections.

With the discontinuation of the optional Essay, the overall test time was reduced.

What Is the Digital SAT?

The digital SAT, introduced in 2024, is a fully computer-based version of the SAT. The digital SAT has:

A shorter duration of about 2 hours and 14 minutes.
An adaptive testing format that adjusts the difficulty level based on the student’s performance.
Faster score delivery compared to the paper-based SAT.

When Are SAT Scores Released?

SAT scores are typically released 2-3 weeks after the test date.
With the new digital SAT, scores are expected to be available within days of the test.
Students can view their scores on the College Board website, and most scores are released in the morning (around 8:00 AM ET).

What Time Do SAT Scores Come Out?

SAT scores are usually released online by 8:00 AM Eastern Time on the release date. Students receive an email notification when their scores are available.

How Do Colleges Use SAT Scores?

Colleges use SAT scores as part of their admissions process to evaluate a student’s academic readiness. Other factors include:

High School GPA
Extracurricular Activities
Personal Essays
Letters of Recommendation SAT scores are also used for awarding scholarships and placing students in appropriate courses.

Can You Retake the SAT?

Yes, students can retake the SAT as many times as they like. Most students take the SAT 2-3 times to improve their scores.

Colleges often consider the highest score across multiple sittings, and some colleges use Superscoring, which takes the highest section scores from different test dates to create a new composite score.

What Is Superscoring?

Superscoring is when a college combines the highest EBRW and Math scores from multiple SAT test dates to create a new superscore. This allows students to present their best performance for each section, potentially increasing their competitiveness.

Should You Take the SAT or the ACT?

Both the SAT and the ACT are widely accepted by U.S. colleges, and students should choose the one that suits their strengths.
The SAT focuses more on evidence-based reading and problem-solving, while the ACT includes a Science section and generally has a faster-paced structure.
Students can take practice tests for both exams to determine which one suits them better.

How Can You Prepare for the SAT?

Practice Tests: Take full-length practice tests to become familiar with the test format.
Study Materials: Use prep books, online resources, and study guides.
Courses and Tutoring: Many students take SAT prep courses or hire tutors for personalized support.
Khan Academy: The College Board partners with Khan Academy to provide free, personalized SAT practice to all students.

How Much Does the SAT Cost?

The standard SAT fee is around $60 (subject to change).
Fee waivers are available for eligible students, which cover the test fee and provide additional benefits, such as free score reports and college application fee waivers.

Can You Cancel Your SAT Scores?

Yes, students can cancel their SAT scores if they feel they did poorly.
This must be done immediately after the test, typically within a few days of taking the exam, by submitting a written request to the College Board.

What Are SAT Score Reports?

SAT Score Reports provide detailed information about a student’s performance.
They include section scores (Math and EBRW), subscores for specific skill areas, and percentile rankings.
Score reports are sent to colleges as part of the admissions process, and students can select up to four colleges to receive their scores for free when registering for the SAT.

How Long Are SAT Scores Valid?

SAT scores are valid for five years. After that, the scores may become less representative of a student’s current academic abilities, and some colleges may not accept scores older than five years.

Is 1600 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1600 is a perfect SAT score. This score places you in the 99th+ percentile, meaning you scored better than 99% of all test-takers. A 1600 is highly competitive for any college or university in the United States, including Ivy League schools, MIT, and Stanford. This score demonstrates exceptional mastery of the material.

Is 1550 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1550 is an excellent SAT score, typically placing you in the 99th percentile. This score makes you a competitive applicant for the most selective colleges and universities, including Ivy League institutions. It shows that you have a strong grasp of the skills tested on the SAT.

Is 1500 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1500 is also an excellent score, placing you in the 98th-99th percentile. This score makes you highly competitive for most colleges, including many top-tier schools. A 1500 demonstrates that you are well-prepared academically.

Is 1450 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1450 is a very good SAT score, placing you in the 96th percentile. This score is competitive for many top 20 schools and shows that you have a strong understanding of the material. It can make you a strong candidate at selective institutions.

Is 1400 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1400 is a great score, placing you in the 94th percentile. This score makes you a competitive applicant for many selective universities and demonstrates strong academic ability. It is well above the national average and shows readiness for college-level work.

Is 1350 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1350 is an above-average SAT score, typically placing you in the 90th percentile. This score is competitive for many public universities and some selective private colleges. It shows a good understanding of the material tested on the SAT.

Is 1300 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1300 is an above-average score, placing you in the 86th percentile. This score is competitive for a range of universities, including some state flagship schools. It indicates solid academic preparation and readiness for college-level work.

Is 1250 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1250 is an above-average score, placing you in the 81st percentile. It is a good score that can make you competitive for many universities, particularly state schools and less selective private institutions. It reflects good academic ability.

Is 1200 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1200 is a good score, placing you in the 74th percentile. This score is above the national average and makes you a competitive applicant for a range of public universities and some less selective private colleges.

Is 1150 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1150 is an average to above-average score, placing you in the 66th percentile. It can make you competitive for many state universities and some liberal arts colleges, though more selective schools may require higher scores.

Is 1100 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1100 is an average score, placing you in the 58th percentile. It is acceptable for admission to many public universities and community colleges but may not be competitive for more selective institutions.

Is 1050 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1050 is slightly below average, placing you in the 50th percentile. This score is generally enough for many less selective colleges and universities but may limit your options if applying to more competitive programs.

Is 1000 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 1000 is considered below average, placing you in the 41st percentile. While it may be acceptable for some less selective institutions, it will not be competitive for most state flagship schools or more selective colleges.

Is 950 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 950 is below average, placing you in the 33rd percentile. This score may be enough for admission to some community colleges and less selective universities, but it will not be competitive for most four-year institutions.

Is 900 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 900 is below average, placing you in the 25th percentile. This score is on the lower end of the range and may limit your college options to community colleges or non-selective institutions.

Is 850 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 850 is in the 18th percentile, indicating that you scored better than only 18% of test-takers. This score is generally too low for most four-year colleges but may be sufficient for some community colleges or open-admissions programs.

Is 800 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 800 is in the 12th percentile, which is significantly below average. It indicates that you may need additional preparation before pursuing college-level coursework and may limit your options to open-admission or community colleges.

Is 750 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 750 places you in the 7th percentile, which is very low. It indicates significant gaps in knowledge and may require remediation before attending a four-year college. Community colleges may still be an option with this score.

Is 700 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 700 places you in the 4th percentile, indicating that you scored better than only 4% of test-takers. This score is quite low and may limit your options to community colleges or open-admission institutions that offer preparatory programs.

Is 650 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 650 places you in approximately the 2nd percentile, meaning that you scored better than only about 2% of test-takers. This is a very low score, and it suggests significant gaps in your knowledge. With a score of 650, your options for admission are likely limited to community colleges or open-admission institutions that provide preparatory programs.

Is 600 a Good SAT Score?

A score of 600 places you in approximately the 1st percentile, which is one of the lowest possible scores. This indicates that you may need significant improvement before being prepared for college-level work. With this score, community colleges and open-admission schools may be your best options, especially those that offer remedial courses to help bridge knowledge gaps.