What Is a Good SAT Score in 2026?
A good SAT score in 2026 depends on your college list. As a benchmark: above 1200 puts you in the top 25% of test-takers, above 1400 is competitive for selective colleges, and above 1500 is competitive for highly selective schools including Ivies. The “right” score depends on where you’re applying.
Score breakdown
- 1600: Perfect. ~0.1% of test takers.
- 1500-1599: Top 1%. Competitive at every college.
- 1400-1499: Top 5%. Competitive at most selective schools.
- 1300-1399: Top 10%. Strong at most flagship state schools.
- 1200-1299: Top 25%. Solid at most public universities.
- 1050-1199: Above average. Many state and regional schools.
- 850-1049: About average. Community colleges + some regional options.
- Below 850: Below average. Test-optional becomes important.
By target school
- Ivy League: Median admitted 1500+. Competitive 1450+.
- Top 25 universities: Median 1450-1530. Competitive 1400+.
- Top 50 universities: Median 1350-1450. Competitive 1300+.
- Top 100 (state flagships): Median 1200-1350. Competitive 1150+.
- Most state universities: Median 1050-1200. Competitive 1000+.
About test-optional: if your score is below the school’s middle 50%, applying without scores is usually smart. If it’s above, definitely submit.
How to figure out YOUR target
- Make your college list (8-12 schools)
- Look up each school’s middle 50% SAT range
- Aim for the top of the middle 50% at reach schools
- Aim for the middle at target schools
- Be in or above range at safety schools
FAQ
What’s the average SAT score?
About 1050 in recent years — both median and mean cluster there.
Is 1300 a good SAT score?
Yes. 1300 is top 10%, competitive for most public flagships. For highly selective schools, aim for 1400+.
Is 1500 a good SAT score?
Yes. Top 1%, competitive everywhere including Ivies.
Can I improve my SAT score?
Yes. Most students who study 8-12 weeks improve 80-150 points.