Sophia AlexanderYour SAT score can open doors to college admissions and scholarships—so what is a good score? It really varies depending on the schools on your list. The higher your scores, the better your odds of admission to competitive programs, but remember that your SAT is only one piece of the puzzle. Admissions officers also look at your grades, essays, extracurricular activities, and more.
However, an excellent SAT score can open up more college doors. Let’s get into it.
The New Digital SAT
The SAT became digital in 2024, bringing a number of changes that streamlined the test and made it more efficient. The digital form offers faster scoring and less error than the previous paper test.
Some other important updates are:
Shorter Test Time: The computerized SAT takes only 2 hours and 14 minutes compared to the old 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Built-in Calculator: The math test features an on-screen calculator as part of the testing software.
Adaptive Testing: The SAT adapts to your performance. If you answer the initial block of questions (Module 1) well, the subsequent block (Module 2) will be more challenging. If you’re having trouble, the test provides you with easier questions. This adaptive model impacts both the difficulty and scoring.
These modifications make the SAT easier to access, yet they need new preparation strategies.
How the SAT Is Scored
The SAT consists of two principal sections:
Reading & Writing: 64 minutes, ~50 questions
Math: 80 minutes, ~40 questions
SAT Total (Composite) Score
Your total score is a combination of both section scores and can range from 400 to 1600.
SAT Section Scores
You will also receive individual section scores (200–800 each). Because there is no guessing penalty, these scores represent the number of questions you got right.
How Adaptive Testing Affects Scoring
The adaptive testing affects scoring in two ways:
If you receive more difficult questions in Module 2, you will need fewer correct answers to score well.
If you receive easier questions, you’ll need more correct answers to score the same.
Average SAT Scores
According to College Board statistics (2024), here is what the averages are:
Total Score: 1024
Math: 530
Reading & Writing: 480
These are good guidelines, but “good” is relative based on your aspirations and destination schools.
Percentile Rankings
Your percentile ranking indicates where you stand compared to other test-takers. Here’s the breakdown:
Composite Score\tPercentile Rank
1600\t>99
1550\t>99
1510\t99
1500\t98
1450\t97
1410\t95
1400\t94
1350\t91
1340\t90
1300\t86
1250\t80
1220\t76
1200\t72
1150\t64
1130\t60
1100\t57
1080\t50
1050\t44
1030\t40
1000\t34
980\t30
920\t20
830\t10
770\t5
650\t1
640\t<1
400\t<1
Should I Take the SAT?
With some colleges test-optional, you may wonder if the SAT is worth it. Here’s how to make the decision:
Check Your Schools: Determine if your target colleges require SAT scores. Even if they’re test-optional, a high score can still be beneficial.
Scholarship Opportunities: Several merit scholarships look at SAT scores, so taking it may increase opportunities for financial aid.
No Harm: If you’re not satisfied with your score, you don’t have to send it. Most colleges only look at scores if you forward them.
The best thing to do is consider your scholarly abilities and aspirations. If the SAT will make you more competitive, it’s worth taking.
(You may also consider the ACT if you like writing and science.)
SAT Prep Advice
If you do decide to take the SAT, preparing is important. Here’s how to get the best score:
Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the format using official SAT practice tests.
Target Weak Spots: Work on your weakest areas.
Manage Your Time: Practice pacing in order to complete each section within time.
Use Free Resources: Sites such as Khan Academy provide personalized study plans.
Think About a Tutor: If you’re struggling, an SAT prep tutor might be just the thing.
SAT Scores & Scholarships
A high SAT score does not only improve admissions—it can get you scholarships, too. Merit-based aid is offered by many colleges for students who have high test scores and GPAs.
And, scoring well on the PSAT (typically taken during junior year) can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship Program, just another reason to take the standardized tests seriously.
Next Steps
Having learned how to determine a good SAT score and what role it plays in your plans for college, here’s what to do next:
Research Colleges: Utilize tools such as Appily to discover institutions where your score will make you a competitive candidate.
Plan Your Prep: Create a study schedule and make efficient use of free/paid study materials.
Stay Confident: Don’t forget, your SAT is only one aspect of your application—grades, essays, and activities count too.
Ready to find out where your SAT score can lead? Join Appily for free to learn about schools where you’ll shine. With proper prep, you can unlock incredible opportunities.
