What's a good SAT score to aim for?

I've been prepping for the SAT, and I just want to know what score I should be aiming for to pass and have a good chance at competitive colleges. Any advice on a benchmark score or range would be super helpful. Thanks!

A good SAT score to aim for depends on the competitiveness of the colleges you're interested in. As a general guideline:

1. For the most selective colleges (like Ivy League schools, Stanford, MIT), you should aim for at least a 1500. Those schools generally have average SAT scores ranging from 1450 to 1550 (75th percentile scores are often in the high 1500s).

2. For other highly competitive colleges (such as top liberal arts colleges and public research universities), you should aim for a score between 1350 and 1450. These schools typically have average SAT scores ranging from 1300 to 1450.

3. For moderately competitive colleges, an SAT score between 1150 and 1300 is considered solid, and you should be able to find plenty of schools that fit this range.

These ranges are simply a starting point and can vary based on the specific schools you're applying to. It's essential to research the average SAT scores of admitted students for each college you're considering and aim to fall within or exceed that range. Additionally, keep in mind that many schools are moving towards test-optional or test-blind admissions policies, so a strong SAT score is just one aspect of your application. Focusing on maintaining a high GPA, participating in meaningful extracurricular activities, crafting strong essays, and obtaining stellar recommendation letters can help increase your chances of admission as well.