Hello! A newbie here, I've been preparing for the SAT and feeling a bit overwhelmed. What's the average score students usually receive? Just need something to benchmark against my practice scores and set a target. Appreciate any insight!
Hi there! The average SAT score varies each year, but historically, it's been around the mid-1000s. For example, in 2024, the average total SAT score was 1050, distributed as 526 in Math and 524 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.
As important as the average is, you might want to aim higher depending on where you want to apply. For example, if you're aiming for highly selective colleges, they often have an average SAT score into the 1400s.
A good rule of thumb is to check the 25th and 75th percentile scores at the colleges you're interested in. This shows the range of scores in the middle 50% of accepted students. If your scores are hovering closer or above the 75th percentile mark for a school, you're in a strong position for that specific school.
Remember, standardized test scores are just one piece of your application and aren't the be-all and end-all! Focus your practice to improve but don't forget other crucial elements of your application like extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, and essays.
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