Is a 90th percentile SAT score good enough?

Hey guys, so I scored in the 90th percentile on the SAT. Is this good enough for top tier schools or should I try and improve? I'm hearing different things and just wanted some clarity on this.

A 90th percentile SAT score is an impressive achievement, no doubt, but the competitiveness varies depending on the specific top-tier school that you're interested in. If you are aiming for Ivy League schools or other highly selective universities, the average SAT scores for these schools often fall within the 98th or 99th percentile, which translates to an approximately 1510 or higher out of 1600.

However, remember that SAT scores are not the only factor in admission decisions. While scores are part of your academic profile, schools also consider GPA, rigor of your course load, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Having a "spike" or defined area of interest and experience can also make a difference, as top colleges often look for students who have demonstrated unique expertise in a particular area.

If you feel you have the time and resources to continue studying for the exam without compromising your grades or extracurricular involvement, then it could be beneficial to aim for a higher score. But also remember the diminishing returns of putting valuable time into SAT prep that could be spent in other ways. Lastly, many schools have continued their test-optional policies for this application cycle, which means you're not required to submit your scores.

Whatever you decide, keep in mind that the SAT is just one part of your application—there are many aspects for demonstrating your passion, potential, and commitment to prospective schools.