The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test used for college admissions in the United States. It is a three-hour test that measures critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills. The average SAT score is 1060, and a score of 1210 is in the 75th percentile. This means that 75% of test-takers score below 1210.

A score of 1210 is considered to be a good score. It is well above the average score, and it will make you a competitive applicant for most colleges. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The SAT is just one part of the college admissions process. Colleges will also consider your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statement.
- The SAT is not a perfect test. It is possible to get a high score on the SAT without being a good student.
- The SAT is not the only standardized test that colleges accept. The ACT is another standardized test that is accepted by most colleges.
If you are not happy with your SAT score, you can retake the test. The SAT can be taken up to six times, and your highest score will be used for college admissions.
What is a Good SAT Score?
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600. The average SAT score is 1060, and a score of 1210 is in the 75th percentile. This means that 75% of test-takers score below 1210.
A score of 1210 is considered to be a good score. It is well above the average score, and it will make you a competitive applicant for most colleges. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The SAT is just one part of the college admissions process. Colleges will also consider your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statement.
- The SAT is not a perfect test. It is possible to get a high score on the SAT without being a good student.
- The SAT is not the only standardized test that colleges accept. The ACT is another standardized test that is accepted by most colleges.
If you are not happy with your SAT score, you can retake the test. The SAT can be taken up to six times, and your highest score will be used for college admissions.
How to Improve Your SAT Score
There are a number of things you can do to improve your SAT score. Here are a few tips:
- Start studying early. The earlier you start studying, the more time you will have to master the material.
- Take a practice test. This will help you identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Focus on your weaknesses. Spend more time studying the areas where you need the most improvement.
- Get help from a tutor. A tutor can help you understand the material and develop effective study strategies.
- Take a prep course. A prep course can provide you with structured instruction and practice tests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a number of common mistakes that students make when preparing for the SAT. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Cramming. Don’t try to cram all of your studying into a few days before the test. This will only lead to stress and anxiety.
- Guessing. Don’t guess on the answer to a question if you don’t know it. Guessing will only lower your score.
- Getting discouraged. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t do well on a practice test. The practice test is just a diagnostic tool. It is not an indication of how you will do on the actual test.
- Overthinking. Don’t overthink the questions. If you don’t know the answer to a question, move on to the next one.
- Rushing. Don’t rush through the test. Take your time and read each question carefully.
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the SAT:
- What is the average SAT score? The average SAT score is 1060.
- What is a good SAT score? A good SAT score is typically in the 75th percentile or higher.
- How can I improve my SAT score? There are a number of things you can do to improve your SAT score, such as starting studying early, taking practice tests, and getting help from a tutor.
- What are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for the SAT? Some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for the SAT include cramming, guessing, getting discouraged, overthinking, and rushing.
- How many times can I take the SAT? You can take the SAT up to six times.
- What is the difference between the SAT and the ACT? The SAT and the ACT are two different standardized tests that are used for college admissions. The SAT is more popular in the Northeast, while the ACT is more popular in the Midwest and South.
- Which test should I take, the SAT or the ACT? The best test for you depends on your individual strengths and weaknesses. If you are good at math, you may want to take the SAT. If you are good at reading, you may want to take the ACT.
- How can I get a fee waiver for the SAT or the ACT? You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you meet certain income requirements.