Ideal SAT scores for college admissions?

Hey everyone! I'm trying to set realistic goals for my upcoming SAT test. What range of SAT scores should I be aiming for to have a good chance at getting into decent colleges? Would appreciate any advice you can give!

Hey there! It's important to remember that the definition of a "decent college" varies from person to person, and your ideal SAT score will depend on the specific colleges you're interested in. However, I can give you some general guidance for setting realistic goals.

First, if you're aiming for top-tier, highly selective colleges (like the Ivies or similarly ranked schools), the majority of admitted students typically score above 1450, and many applicants score in the high 1500s.

For well-regarded, selective state schools and private institutions, aiming for an SAT score of 1300 or above will generally make you a competitive candidate. Scores in this range tend to be above the national average and are closer to the 75th percentile of all test takers.

In any case, it's crucial to research the specific colleges you're interested in and find out their middle 50% SAT score ranges to get a better idea of what scores are considered competitive at those institutions. Keep in mind that while your SAT score can play a significant role in college admissions, it's not the only factor. Strong grades, a rigorous curriculum, exceptional extracurriculars, and well-crafted application essays can help boost your overall application, even if your SAT score is not quite as high as you'd like it to be.

It's important to set goals for your SAT test while also knowing that a well-rounded application is essential for college admissions. Good luck with your test preparation!