SAT Scores: Understanding the Range

What's the typical range for SAT scores? Not just the lowest and highest possible, but what would you consider a reasonable range for someone aiming to get into a pretty good college?

The SAT has two sections: Math and Evidence-based Reading and Writing, each scored between 200 to 800, for a maximum combined score of 1600 and a minimum combined score of 400.

Now, if you're aiming for a good college, it's beneficial to understand how your scores compare to those of the students already admitted. Generally, a score of 1200 or above is considered solid and gives you a good shot at many colleges and universities. However, if you're aiming at highly competitive or Ivy League schools, you'd probably want to aim for scores above 1450, or better yet, 1500.

For example, the middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students at an institution like Princeton University is typically between 1440 and 1570, which means that 25% of admitted students scored below 1440, and 25% scored above 1570.

Given the current digital format of the SAT, you'll have two 32-minute modules for Reading and Writing and two 35-minute modules for Math. Practice can help you optimize your performance within these time constraints.

Remember, these numbers are just guidelines. Every college has its own preferred range which you can usually find on their admissions website. Ideally, you want your score to fall within or above this range to be considered a competitive candidate.

Finally, keep in mind that a great SAT score is just one piece of the admissions puzzle. Admissions officers at most colleges consider a range of other factors, like your GPA, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation. So even if you score a little lower than the average admitted student, strong performances in other aspects of your application could still put you in the running for admission.