SAT Score Guide — What Scores Do Colleges Want?
Learn how SAT scoring works on the Digital SAT. The total score ranges from 400 to 1600, with Math scored 200-800 and Reading & Writing scored 200-800. Understand percentile rankings and college admission benchmarks.
SAT Score Breakdown
The Digital SAT consists of two sections: Math (200-800) and Reading & Writing (200-800). Your total score is the sum of both sections, ranging from 400 to 1600.
Average SAT Scores
The national average SAT score is approximately 1060. A score of 1200+ puts you above the 74th percentile, 1400+ is approximately the 94th percentile, and 1500+ is the 98th percentile.
College Score Expectations
State universities typically admit students with scores of 1000-1200. Competitive schools look for 1300-1450. Ivy League and top-20 universities generally admit students scoring 1450 or higher.
SAT Superscoring
Many colleges accept SAT superscores, combining your highest Math and Reading & Writing scores from different test dates. Check individual college policies for details.