Deciphering a 'good SAT score'

Hello people! I'm new to this whole college application process and I'm trying to set some goals for myself. Just out of curiosity, what would be considered a 'good SAT score'? Any ballpark figures or ranges would be much appreciated. Thanks!

Hi there! The concept of a 'good SAT score' can indeed depend on a number of factors including the colleges you're interested in and the academic profile of accepted students at those schools.

However, we can navigate this question with some general stats. The SAT is currently scored out of 1600 points, with 800 for Math and 800 for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. The CollegeBoard, which administers the SAT, provides some baseline figures: the average SAT score for high school graduates in 2021 was 1051, with an average of 528 in Math and 523 in Reading and Writing.

Yet when you're applying to colleges, especially more selective ones, you'll probably want to aim higher than the national average. A score of 1200 or above is generally considered solid while a score above 1400 is often viewed as very competitive for most colleges.

For instance, if you have ambitions to apply to highly selective schools (think Ivy League and equivalent), you might want to aim for 1500 or above because the average SAT scores of students admitted at these schools tend to be in that vicinity.

But remember, your SAT score is just one component of your college application, and while it's important, it's only one piece to the bigger puzzle. Be sure to also focus on your coursework, grades, extracurricular activities, and essays! Good luck with your prep!