SAT scores range 400–1600. In 2026, 1050 is average, 1450+ hits top 10% percentile, and elite colleges require 1480+. Understand score distribution.
SAT Score Chart 2026: Percentiles, Ranges & What's a Good Score
The SAT remains America's most widely used college entrance exam, with over 1.8 million test-takers annually. Understanding your SAT score chart is crucial—a single 100-point difference can mean the gap between acceptance and rejection at competitive universities. In 2026, the average SAT score is 1050, but elite institutions like Harvard and Yale expect scores of 1510+. This guide breaks down exactly how SAT scores work, what percentile means, and what score you need for your target school.
How SAT Scores Are Calculated
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400–1600. Two sections make up your total: Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (200–800) and Math (200–800). Each section is scored independently, then combined for your composite score. Unlike the ACT, which uses a 36-point scale, the SAT doesn't curve—your score reflects your raw performance.
2026 SAT Percentile Chart
| SAT Score | Percentile | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 1550–1600 | 98–99th | Excellent; competitive for Ivy League |
| 1450–1549 | 93–97th | Very strong; target for top 20 universities |
| 1350–1449 | 87–92nd | Strong; competitive for selective schools |
| 1250–1349 | 74–86th | Above average; good for many colleges |
| 1150–1249 | 59–73rd | Average; meets requirements for state schools |
| 1000–1149 | 35–58th | Below average; many colleges still accessible |
| Below 1000 | Below 35th | Low; may need test-optional schools |
What's a “Good” SAT Score?
A good SAT score depends entirely on your target universities. For Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, scores below 1480 put you at a disadvantage. For state flagship universities like University of Michigan, 1200–1300 is competitive. Use our admissions calculator to compare your score against 500+ colleges.
How to Improve Your SAT Score
Most students who retake the SAT improve by 50–100 points. Focus on your weakest section—whether that's math, reading, or writing. Free SAT practice tests from Khan Academy and College Board are your best resource. Spending 6–8 hours per week over 8–12 weeks typically yields the best gains.
Related: ACT Score Chart 2026 | Free SAT Practice Tests | PSAT/NMSQT Guide
★ Key Takeaways
Source: The College Monk — Based on data from 3,837 U.S. universities. Last updated July 2026.
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