A good SAT score for college depends largely on the selectivity of the schools you are targeting. Here are key points to consider:
- The national average SAT score is around 1050. Any score above this is technically above average, but may not be competitive for selective colleges
- For top universities, especially Ivy League and other highly selective schools, a good SAT score is generally around 1550 or higher. Admitted students at these schools typically have scores ranging from about 1470 (25th percentile) to 1550 (75th percentile)
- For Ivy League schools specifically, the 25th percentile scores start around 1430-1500, and the 75th percentile scores are typically between 1530 and 1580. Most top schools expect scores closer to the 75th percentile, around 1550 or above
- For less selective but still competitive universities, scores in the range of 1300 to 1450 can be considered good and open doors to many respected schools and scholarship opportunities
- A good SAT score should ideally be at least in the 75th percentile nationally, which corresponds roughly to scores above 1400-1450, to be competitive for many colleges
In summary:
- Top-tier universities (Ivy League, Stanford, MIT, etc.): Aim for 1470-1580, ideally 1550+.
- Competitive but less selective universities: Scores around 1300-1450 are good.
- National average: About 1050; above this is above average but not highly competitive for selective schools.
Your target score should align with the admission averages of the colleges you want to apply to, and aiming for the 75th percentile or above is a strong strategy
