When you’re prepping for standardized tests, one of the things you’ll want to know is what the SAT score average is and how your score compares. But when we talk about the average SAT score, there are so many different scores to cover. That’s because there’s a national average, state average, and even an average for the colleges you’re applying to. You can even find out what is the average SAT score for your ethnicity or gender!

What is the Average SAT Score on the National Level?

Let's start by talking about what the average SAT score for the country is. Because the SAT has been redesigned, we will be using scores on the new 1600 scale instead of the old 2400 scale. If you have scores on the 2400 scale and want to know how you compare, use this SAT score converter to figure out your score on the 1600 scale.

When the College Board evaluates the national averages, they focus on all 11th and 12th grade students called the Nationally Representative Sample Percentiles and then college-bound students in the 11th and 12th grade who are probably taking the SAT for the final time, called the SAT User Percentiles.

When you look at the Nationally Representative Sample, the average SAT scores are:

•    Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 510
•    Math: 510
•    Composite: 1020

And then, when we look at the SAT User group, the average SAT scores are:

•    Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: 543
•    Math: 541
•    Composite: 1083

Basically, you’ll want a score of 1100 or above to be above the national average. With the SAT; the higher your score, the better.

What is the Average SAT Score on the State Level?

If you’re curious about how your scores compare to the rest of your state, take a look at the chart below! These scores are still on the 2400 scale so I’ve also converted them to the new 1600 scale equivalent.

Source: College Board

What SAT Score Do You Need for College?

In order to answer this, you actually need to ask yourself what is the average SAT score for accepted students for the colleges I’m applying to. Some colleges offer a minimum score to be considered, but you need to look what scores are getting students into the schools you want to go to. When you know that, you should start doing some test prep to make sure you get at least that average score, especially if you’re looking at competitive schools like Harvard or Stanford.

Already taken the test and aren’t sure what colleges you may get into with your scores? Work with a college consultant to help you identify which schools are in your range and make sure you have everything necessary to send in an amazing application. This is especially helpful if you aren’t sure which college you want to go to or are feeling overwhelmed by how many options are available. There’s nothing wrong with having a little help on your college application journey. Actually, I recommend it.

Now that you know what is the average SAT score on the national level, state level, and which SAT score will get you into college, you can properly prepare to get yourself into the college of your dreams! Remember that while national and state averages are good information to have, knowing what the average SAT score of students being accepted to the colleges you’re applying to is the most important number. This is the average that will help you gauge your chances of being accepted and help you decide if you need to re-take the SAT.

Have you taken the SAT yet? Are you concerned about your scores? Let us know in the comments below!