What is a Good or Average Sat Score for 2024-2025

When preparing for the SAT, understanding your score is just as important as achieving a high number. SAT score percentiles provide context by showing how your performance compares to other test-takers. Whether you're aiming for an elite university or a state college, knowing where you stand can help you set realistic goals and improve your admissions strategy.

What Are SAT Score Percentiles?

SAT score percentiles rank your performance relative to other students who took the test. For example, if you scored in the 75th percentile, you performed better than 75% of test-takers. The College Board updates these percentiles annually to reflect recent testing trends.

Two Types of SAT Percentiles

Nationally Representative Sample Percentiles

This compares your score to a research-based estimate of all U.S. 11th and 12th graders, including those who didn’t take the SAT.
It’s less commonly used in college admissions but helps gauge overall academic standing.

SAT User Percentiles

This is based only on students who actually took the SAT in a given year.
Colleges primarily use this percentile to evaluate applicants.

How to Interpret SAT Percentiles

Your SAT score report includes percentile rankings for Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, as well as your total score. Here’s how to read them:

Total Score Percentiles (Combined EBRW + Math)

A perfect 1600 typically ranks in the 99+ percentile.
A 1200 is around the 75th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 75% of test-takers.
A 1000 is near the 50th percentile, placing you in the middle of the pack.

Section-Specific Percentiles

EBRW Percentiles

A 700 in EBRW is usually in the 93rd percentile.
A 600 is around the 75th percentile.

Math Percentiles

A 700 in Math is often in the 92nd percentile.
A 600 is near the 75th percentile.

These numbers shift slightly each year, so always check the latest data from the College Board.

Why SAT Percentiles Matter for College Admissions

Colleges use percentiles to compare applicants from different high schools and backgrounds. Here’s why they’re important:

Competitiveness of Your Score

If your percentile is below a school’s middle 50% range, your SAT score may weaken your application.
If you’re at or above the 75th percentile, your score strengthens your chances.

Scholarship Opportunities

Many merit-based scholarships have minimum percentile requirements (e.g., top 20%).
A high percentile can qualify you for additional financial aid.

Setting Target Scores

Research your dream schools’ average SAT percentiles to set a goal.
For Ivy League schools, aim for the 98th percentile or higher (1450+).
For competitive state schools, the 75th percentile (1200-1350) is often sufficient.

How to Improve Your Percentile Ranking

If your percentile isn’t where you want it to be, strategic studying can help.

Focus on Your Weaker Section

Since percentiles are section-specific, improving your lower score can significantly boost your overall ranking.
For example, raising Math from 600 (75th percentile) to 700 (92nd percentile) can elevate your total percentile dramatically.

Take Practice Tests Under Timed Conditions

Familiarity with the test format reduces anxiety and improves pacing.
Use official College Board practice materials for the most accurate scoring.

Review Mistakes Thoroughly

Identify patterns in incorrect answers (e.g., algebra errors, reading comprehension issues).
Target those areas with focused practice.

Final Thoughts

SAT score percentiles provide valuable insight into your competitiveness as an applicant. By understanding where you stand and how colleges interpret these rankings, you can make informed decisions about retaking the test, applying to schools, and pursuing scholarships. Use percentiles as a guide—not a limitation—and focus on continuous improvement to reach your academic goals.

For the most up-to-date percentile data, refer to the official College Board SAT percentile rankings. Happy studying!