For many students, the SAT is one of the most important parts of the college application process. It’s natural to wonder, what is a good score on the sat? The truth is, the answer depends on the colleges you’re aiming for and your personal goals. In this guide, we’ll explain how the SAT is scored, what counts as a good score, and how you can set a realistic target.

How is the SAT Scored?

The SAT is divided into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Each section is scored between 200 and 800 points. When you combine them, your total score will range from 400 to 1600.

In addition to these two main scores, the SAT also provides subscores and cross-test scores. However, most colleges are primarily concerned with your total combined score and your individual section scores. This is why it’s important to focus on improving both EBRW and Math equally.

What is the Average SAT Score?

Knowing the national average will help you understand where you stand compared to other test-takers. According to recent statistics from the College Board, the average SAT score is about 1050 to 1100. Here’s a breakdown:

• Average EBRW Score: Around 530
• Average Math Score: Around 520

If you are scoring around this range, you are close to the national average. However, depending on your college list, you may need to aim higher to make your application stand out.

What is Considered a Good SAT Score?

There is no universal definition of a “good” SAT score. What’s considered good depends on the type of colleges you want to attend. Here’s a simple guide:

• Above 1200: Generally seen as a good score for many public universities and mid-tier private colleges.
• 1350 and higher: Strong score, competitive for selective colleges and top public universities.
• 1500 or above: Excellent score, competitive for Ivy League schools and other highly selective institutions.

In simple terms, the more competitive the school, the higher your SAT score needs to be. Some colleges also offer merit scholarships to students who achieve higher-than-average SAT scores.

SAT Score Ranges for Popular Colleges

If you are curious about what scores top colleges expect, here are typical score ranges for admitted students:

• Ivy League and Top 20 Universities: 1450 – 1570
• Selective Public Universities (UCLA, Michigan, UNC): 1350 – 1500
• Strong Regional Universities and Liberal Arts Colleges: 1250 – 1400

Keep in mind that these are middle 50% ranges, meaning 25% of admitted students scored lower, and 25% scored higher.

How to Set Your Personal SAT Goal

Step 1: Research the Colleges on Your List

Start by finding the average SAT scores for the schools you are interested in. Most colleges publish this information on their admissions or first-year profile pages.

Step 2: Compare Your Current Score to Their Averages

If you’ve already taken a practice test or the real SAT, compare your score to the schools’ averages. If you are within 50–100 points of your target school’s average, you are in a decent position but could benefit from improving further.

Step 3: Set a Realistic Target

If your dream school’s average is 1400 and you currently have a 1250, setting a goal of 1350 – 1400 is realistic with focused preparation. You don’t necessarily need a perfect score; you just need one that fits the typical range of admitted students.

Step 4: Keep Test-Optional Policies in Mind

Since 2020, many colleges have become test-optional, meaning you are not required to submit SAT scores. However, if your score is strong and above the school’s average, submitting it could boost your application.

Is the SAT the Only Factor in Admissions?

While a good SAT score can make a big difference, colleges look at more than just test scores. Admissions officers also consider:

• High School GPA
• Course Rigor
• Extracurricular Activities
• Recommendation Letters
• Essays

If your SAT score is slightly below average but the rest of your application is strong, you still have a good chance of getting accepted.

Final Thoughts

A good SAT score depends on your target colleges, your overall application, and your personal goals. For many students, a score between 1200 and 1350 is competitive. For those aiming for highly selective schools, the closer you can get to 1450+, the better.

Always remember that the SAT is just one piece of your application. Focus on building a well-rounded profile, and don’t be discouraged if your score isn’t perfect. What matters most is finding the right college for you.