Is an SAT score of 1170 good for college admissions?

I just got my SAT scores back and got a 1170. I'm kind of stressed out right now. Is this a solid score for some decent colleges, and should I aim higher? How important is my SAT score in the whole admissions process?

An SAT score of 1170 can be considered decent for many colleges, but the term "decent" is subjective depending on the specific schools you are targeting. If you're aiming for more competitive colleges, it's a good idea to work on improving your SAT score. However, if you're more interested in your state's public colleges or less competitive private schools, an SAT score of 1170 might be sufficient. To get an idea of where you stand, you can look up the middle 50% SAT range of admitted students for the colleges you're interested in attending.

It's important to know that your SAT score is just one part of your college application. Although it is a significant factor, admissions committees also review other aspects of your application, such as your high school GPA, course rigor, extracurricular activities, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. A strong SAT score can certainly help your overall chances, but a lower score does not necessarily mean you won't be admitted to the schools of your choice.

Since different schools place varying levels of importance on standardized test scores, it's essential to research the specific admissions policies of each college you're considering. Additionally, some schools have gone test-optional due to recent changes in standardized testing, which means you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT scores as part of your application.

Ultimately, whether or not you should aim for a higher SAT score depends on your goals, desired colleges, and the strength of your overall application. If you do decide to retake the SAT, make sure to dedicate ample time to preparing for the test, using effective study strategies and resources, like The Bluebook™ app and practice exams, to help improve your score.