Is a 990 SAT score good enough?

I recently took the SAT and got a 990. Is this score good enough for getting into decent colleges? If not, what should be my target score for a better chance at admissions?

A 990 SAT score falls below the national average, which is around 1050-1060. While this score might not be competitive for more selective colleges, it could still be viable for some less selective schools or community colleges. However, improving your SAT score will undoubtedly increase your chances of admission at more colleges, giving you a wider array of options.

To determine your target score, research the admission statistics of the colleges and universities that interest you. You can typically find this information on their websites or by using resources like the College Board's Big Future tool. Look for the middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students at the schools on your list; you'll want to aim for a score within or above that range to be more competitive.

Remember, though, that standardized test scores are only one part of your college application. Strong extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation can also be influential in the admissions process. Additionally, some colleges have gone test-optional, meaning they don't require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores, so you might want to explore those options as well.

That said, if you're aiming to improve your SAT score, consider using test prep resources like Khan Academy, the official College Board website, or other reputable SAT prep books. Retaking the SAT after additional preparation can lead to a significant score increase that will widen your college options and potentially improve your chances of receiving merit-based scholarships.