If you're a high school student planning your college applications in 2025, one question you're probably asking is: "What’s a good SAT score?" With the SAT now fully digital and colleges continuing to evolve their admissions policies, understanding what makes a "good" score is more important—and more nuanced—than ever.
Let’s break down what a good SAT score looks like in 2025 and how you can set your personal target.
📊 Understanding the SAT Scoring Scale
The SAT is scored on a 1600-point scale, combining two sections:
-
Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW): 200–800
-
Math: 200–800
So your total score can range from 400 to 1600.
🎯 What Is a “Good” Score? It Depends.
The truth is, a good SAT score depends on your goals. Here’s how to look at it:
✅ Above-Average Scores
In general, the average SAT score hovers around 1050–1100. Scoring above this range means you're ahead of the curve compared to the typical test-taker.
🏫 Target Score Based on College Goals
Different colleges have different score expectations. Here’s a rough guide:
|
Type of School |
Competitive SAT Score |
|
Ivy League / Top 20 |
1450–1580+ |
|
Highly Selective |
1350–1450 |
|
Mid-Range Selective |
1150–1300 |
|
Less Selective |
1000–1150 |
Use tools like College Board’s “Big Future” or a college’s official website to check the middle 50% SAT range for admitted students.
🧠 Test-Optional: Do You Still Need a Good Score?
Many colleges are still test-optional in 2025, but that doesn’t mean the SAT isn’t useful. A strong score can:
-
Boost your application at selective schools
-
Offset a lower GPA
-
Qualify you for merit scholarships
-
Help with placement in honors programs
So if you do well, submit it. If you don’t, you’re not required to—but a great score can only help.
🧮 How to Set Your Target Score
-
Make a college list (dream, match, safety schools)
-
Check their SAT score ranges
-
Aim for the top 25% of those scores
Example: If your dream school’s middle 50% SAT range is 1380–1480, you should aim for 1480 or higher to be a competitive applicant.
📅 Prepare with the Digital Format in Mind
The SAT is now digital, adaptive, and shorter—just over 2 hours. That’s good news for many students, but it also means preparation strategies need to adapt. Practice using College Board’s Bluebook™ app to get used to the format and tools.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s a good SAT score in 2025? One that aligns with your college and scholarship goals. Whether that’s a 1200 or a 1500 depends on where you’re headed. Do your research, set a realistic target, and prepare with purpose.
Remember: a “good” score isn’t about perfection—it’s about positioning yourself for the future you want.