Minimal SAT Scores: What is generally expected?

I've been trying to find precise figures for minimum SAT scores that most colleges request… but, no luck yet. I'm doing okay on my practice tests but don't have a concrete idea about what universities might want. Should I aim as high as possible or is there a general benchmark? Any advice would be appreciated.

The specific SAT score that colleges look for can vary greatly depending on the institution's selectivity. For highly selective institutions, like those in the Ivy League, the middle 50% of accepted students often have SAT scores in the 1450-1550 range. Mid-tier colleges might have a middle 50% SAT score range closer to 1200-1350, while less selective colleges may admit students with a broader range of scores.

However, it's important to note that while having a high SAT score can certainly boost your application, it doesn't guarantee admission. Schools are looking for academically driven students with diverse interests. The SAT just happens to be one way to demonstrate your academic prowess, but it isn't the only factor colleges consider.

My advice would be to aim for the highest score you can realistically achieve. If you're aiming for top-tier schools, strive for a score in the high 1400s or above. If your focus is on mid-tier or less-selective institutions, a score of 1200 or above should generally be a strong target. But remember to also place importance on your grades, extracurriculars, and other aspects of your application as these play a significant role in the admission decisions as well.

An effective way to gauge where you might fall within a school’s average SAT range is to research the "middle 50%" range for your desired schools. This information is typically available on the school’s admissions website, and this will give you a good idea of where your score should ideally be.