SAT Percentiles and Score Rankings

Understanding SAT percentiles and score rankings can help you interpret your results and plan your next steps. While your estimated score gives you a numerical value, percentiles show how your score compares to others. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

What is an SAT Percentile?

Your SAT percentile tells you how your score compares to other students who took the test. For example, if you score in the 90th percentile, you perform better than 90% of test takers. A high percentile means you’re at the top of the test-taker pool, while a lower percentile means you’re closer to the middle or bottom.

Interpreting Your SAT Score

The SAT score is made up of two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, each scoring between 200 and 800 points, for a total of 400 to 1600 points. Here’s how to interpret the ranges:

• 1400+: Excellent. This score puts you in the top 10% of test takers, making you competitive at most colleges.
• 1200-1399: Good. You’re in the 75th percentile, meaning you scored better than 75% of students.
• 1000-1199: Average. This is the median score for SAT test takers and is typically considered competitive for many schools.
• Below 1000: Below average. You may need to focus on improving your score for competitive admissions.

Understanding the 25th, 50th, and 75th Percentiles

Colleges often publish the SAT score ranges of students they admit. This range is called the middle 50% and is usually between the 25th and 75th percentiles. For example, if the middle 50% of students at a school score between 1200 and 1400, then 25% of admitted students scored below 1200, and 25% scored above 1400.

To stand out, aim for a score above the 75th percentile of the school you’re applying to.

Score Rankings by College Selectivity

Each school has different criteria for selection, and understanding where you fall within their score range is key to determining your abilities.

Highly selective schools (like Harvard or MIT) typically admit students with scores in the 95th percentile or above while some schools may admit students in the 80th to 90th percentile range. Some selective colleges may often accept students in the 60th to 75th  percentile.

How Percentiles Impact Your Application

While your SAT score matters, colleges look at your entire application, including grades, extracurriculars, and essays. A strong SAT score can enhance your application, especially if your GPA or other parts of your application are not that competitive. It’s also essential for merit-based scholarships.