Everyone asks what a good SAT score is, but the answer depends on your college goal. For some students, 1000 is good. For others, even 1400 is not enough.
In this guide, we will break down what is a good, bad, and excellent SAT score for 2026 based on official College Board data.
What Is the Average SAT Score in 2026?
The national average SAT score in 2026 is 1028. The average Reading and Writing score is 520, while the average Math score is 508.
If you score above 1028, you are above average. Above 1200, you are in the top 25%. Above 1350, you are in the top 10%.
So, what is a good SAT score?
A Good SAT Score by College Type
A good SAT score depends on the type of college you want to attend. Here is a general breakdown:
- Community College or Open Admission: 800–950 is enough.
- Average 4-Year University (like Arizona State, CSU): 1000–1150 is good.
- Good State University (like Penn State, Ohio State): 1200–1350 is good.
- Top 50 Universities (like NYU, Boston University): 1350–1450 is good.
- Ivy League (Harvard, MIT, Yale): 1500+ is good.
A Good SAT Score by Percentile
Your SAT percentile shows how your score compares with those of other students.
| SAT Score | Percentile | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| 1000 | 45th percentile | Average |
| 1100 | 62nd percentile | Slightly Above Average |
| 1200 | 76th percentile | Good |
| 1300 | 87th percentile | Very Good |
| 1400 | 94th percentile | Excellent |
| 1500 | 99th percentile | Outstanding |
If you are at the 75th percentile or above, your score is considered good for most colleges.
What Is a Good SAT Score for a Junior?
If you are in 11th grade and taking the SAT for the first time, here is how to evaluate your score:
- 1000 as a junior: Okay, but you should consider retaking the test.
- 1100 as a junior: A good start.
- 1200 as a junior: Very good. You can reach 1300+ with preparation.
- 1300 as a junior: Excellent. You are on track for top colleges.
What Is a Good SAT Score for Scholarships?
Most merit scholarships require at least 1200. Here is a general breakdown of SAT scores to aim for:
- $1,000–$5,000 scholarships: 1200+ SAT.
- $10,000+ scholarships: 1350+ SAT.
- Full-ride scholarships: 1500+ SAT and a good GPA.
If you want scholarships, aim for at least 1300.
Is 1000 a Good SAT Score?
A score of 1000 is okay, but it is not competitive for many selective colleges. It is just below the national average.
You can get into many state schools with a 1000, but your eligibility for merit aid may be limited. We recommend retaking the test and aiming for 1150.
Is 1200 a Good SAT Score?
Yes, 1200 is a good SAT score. It puts you at the 76th percentile.
You can get into many state universities and some good private colleges with a 1200. It may also make you eligible for various scholarships, depending on the college and its requirements.
Is 1400 a Good SAT Score?
Yes, 1400 is a very good SAT score. It is around the 94th percentile.
With a 1400, you are competitive for many universities. However, admission to highly selective institutions, including Ivy League schools, can be challenging because many admitted students have scores of 1500 or higher.
How to Get a Good SAT Score
Follow these steps to improve your SAT score:
- Take a diagnostic test on the Bluebook app.
- Find your weak areas, such as Algebra and Grammar.
- Study for one hour daily for two months.
- Take 4–5 full-length practice tests.
- Focus on time management.
Many students can improve their scores by 100–200 points with proper preparation, although individual results vary.
What SAT Score Should You Aim For?
Don’t aim only for the average. Aim for your dream college’s 75th-percentile SAT score.
Search for “[Your College Name] average SAT score” and add 50 points. That is a useful target for your preparation.
Use our SAT Score Calculator to estimate your current score and see how many more questions you need to answer correctly to reach your target.
FAQs About Good SAT Scores
Is 1200 a good SAT score for Harvard?
No. A 1200 SAT score is generally below the range of scores earned by many Harvard applicants and admitted students. A score of 1480+ may be a more competitive target, but no SAT score guarantees admission.
Is 800 a good SAT score?
No, 800 is below the national average and is generally considered a low SAT score. However, whether it meets admission requirements depends on the college.
What is a good SAT score out of 1600?
A score of 1300 out of 1600 is considered good for many colleges. A score of 1400+ is excellent and can make you competitive for more selective universities.
What SAT score is required for MIT?
MIT is highly selective, and many admitted students have SAT scores around 1540 or higher. A score of 1520+ can be a competitive target, but admission also depends on your academic record, extracurricular activities, and other application factors.