Is 1390 a good SAT score?

Hey everyone! I recently received my SAT scores and got a 1390. Is this considered a good score, and will it help me get into competitive colleges? Thanks!

Hello! A 1390 is indeed a good SAT score, as it places you around the 97th percentile of test-takers. It definitely shows your potential and academic ability. However, whether it will help you get into competitive colleges depends on the specific schools you're aiming for and the context of your overall application.

For top-tier colleges, such as the Ivy League and similar institutions, the average SAT scores of accepted students tend to be higher, often ranging from 1450 to 1550. At these schools, a 1390 may be considered slightly lower compared to the typical accepted applicant. However, for many other competitive colleges, a 1390 would fall well within the middle 50% SAT range, making it a solid score for those schools.

Additionally, even at the most selective schools, a 1390 could be part of a successful application, as the average range is just that: a range. Colleges evaluate applications holistically, by taking into account your coursework, grades, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and essays along with your test scores. So, a strong academic and extracurricular profile can certainly make up for a slightly lower SAT score.

If you feel that you can improve your SAT score by retaking the test, it might be beneficial. However, be sure to also focus your efforts on other areas of your application, such as amplifying your involvement in extracurricular activities and ensuring your essays effectively convey your personal qualities and experiences. A strong application should be well-rounded, and showcase your strengths beyond just test scores.

Good luck!