Navigating SAT Scores: What's a Good Score to Aim for?

Hey, junior here and just kept digging in SAT prep materials lately. I feel like I don't have a clear idea about what I should be shooting for on the SAT. I know it varies based on the college you're eyeing, but generally speaking, what's considered a good score? Thoughts and guidance would be amazing.

The SAT, now fully digital from spring 2024, is scored on a scale of 400-1600 with two combined sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math, each scored between 200 and 800. The national average SAT score typically hovers around 1050.

But "good" is a relative term when it comes to SAT score, as it largely depends on the caliber of schools you're interested in. If you're aiming for more selective schools, a score above 1400 (in the 94th percentile or higher) is typically considered competitive.

However, if you're looking at less selective or state schools, you might find that an SAT score around 1150-1300 would be considered good. And remember, test scores are just one part of your overall application; colleges also look at your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation to make their decisions.

Taking practice tests through resources like the Bluebook™ app can be a great way to gauge where you currently stand and identify areas that you need to focus on during your study sessions. You'll also get much better at managing your time as you take more practice tests, which is really important since you only have about 71 seconds per Reading and Writing question and 96 seconds per Math question on the SAT.

And if you're aiming for colleges that are following a test-optional admissions policy, remember that a "good" score is any score that you feel accurately represents your academic abilities and would strengthen your application.