Clarification on what is a Good SAT Score?

Hey guys, I'm a bit stressed and confused about the SAT. As a rising junior targeting the 2024 admissions cycle broadly, what do you think would count as a 'good' score? Are we talking 1400? Higher or lower?

The term "good" SAT score can be very subjective and varies depending on the context. For instance, a score is only "good" in relation to what you're trying to accomplish with it- namely, the schools to which you're applying.

For the very top universities (like many Ivy Leagues), their 25th-75th percentile SAT scores typically fall in a range of around 1470-1570. These are incredibly competitive schools and they typically favor students with higher scores. However, if you fall just beneath the 25th percentile mark for these institutions, it doesn’t preclude you from getting in.

For many well-respected but slightly less competitive schools, you might be looking at a range of 1300-1400 as a "good" score. If you're targeting less selective state schools or local colleges, a score around 1200-1300 might fall into the "good" category.

Of course, these ranges are just aggregates and do not define whether an aligned SAT score will guarantee your admission. The best strategy would be to research the schools you're interested in and find out the average SAT score of admitted applicants. This could give you a specific target to aim for that's more closely aligned with your individual goals.

Remember to see the testing experience as a whole, and consider the SAT as just one piece of your application. Schools often view your courses and the rigor of your high school curriculum as more important than an SAT score alone. The SAT remains a useful tool for differentiating between many highly qualified students, but they view this information within the context of your entire application, including extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.