SAT
SAT scores
Score ranges, percentiles and university benchmarks. This guide is part of our full SAT guide.
How SAT scores work
| Score | Level | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 1500 to 1600 | Top 1 to 2 percent | Ivy League and equivalent |
| 1400 to 1490 | Top 5 percent | Highly selective universities |
| 1300 to 1390 | Top 10 percent | Selective universities and scholarships |
| 1200 to 1290 | Above average | Most good universities |
| 1000 to 1190 | Around average | Many universities and pathways |
Universities publish their own requirements; the bands above show the typical range. Ask a counsellor for the exact score your shortlisted courses need.
Questions
Is the SAT required for US universities?
Many universities are test-optional, but several selective ones have reinstated requirements from 2024 onwards, and a strong score helps with scholarships.
Do UK universities accept SAT?
Some accept SAT plus AP scores from US-curriculum students; it is not needed for students with A levels, IB or national boards.
What is a good SAT score?
1300 or above is competitive for good universities; 1450 or above for the most selective.
How often is the SAT offered internationally?
Seven times a year: March, May, June, August, October, November and December.
Is the SAT still on paper?
No. It has been digital worldwide since 2023.