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Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
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| 800 verbal
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Decent SAT scores for college admissions?

Hey, I'm just wondering what people consider as decent SAT scores when applying to colleges? Like, what score range would be considered competitive for most colleges? Any help would be appreciated!

2 years ago

Hey there! Decent SAT scores can vary depending on the colleges you're targeting, as different institutions have different expectations. However, I can provide you with a general idea of what scores might be considered competitive for various tiers of schools.

1. Top-tier, highly selective colleges (e.g., Ivy League schools, Stanford, MIT, etc.): For these schools, competitive SAT scores are typically in the 1450-1600 range. Accepted students usually score in the 75th percentile or higher, which means at least a 1500+.

2. Mid-tier, moderately selective colleges (e.g., most state flagship universities, well-regarded private colleges): Competitive SAT scores for these colleges are generally in the 1200-1450 range. While it varies by school, scoring above the 50th percentile (around 1250+) would typically make you a stronger candidate.

3. Lower-tier, less selective colleges and open-enrollment institutions (e.g., many regional state schools, smaller private colleges with high acceptance rates): For these colleges, an SAT score of 900-1200 might still be considered decent, and students with a wider range of scores are often admitted.

Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, and there can be exceptions and additional factors that come into play in the admissions process. To determine what scores would be considered competitive for the specific colleges you're interested in, you can usually find the middle 50% SAT scores of accepted students on the institution's admissions website or use resources like CollegeVine to get a better understanding of the score ranges.

Additionally, remember that some schools have switched to test-optional or test-blind policies, so it's important to research the colleges you're applying to and know their testing requirements. Ultimately, your SAT score is just one aspect of your college application, and schools will also consider factors like your grades, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations. Good luck with your college applications!

2 years ago

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