SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips

Every year nearly 2 million students take the SAT, but what's it out of? I'll answer this question and more in this article.   

Scoring for the SAT

The SAT is out of 1600 points. There are two sections Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (Reading and Writing are two tests, but together make up one section). Each section is scored from 200 to 800, so the overall scores range from 400 to 1600. 

Note that from 2005-2016 the SAT was scored out of 2400 (there were separate Reading and Writing sections with their own scores out of 800). For more on the old score scale and the 2016 redesing, check out our Complete Guide to the New SAT in 2016. 

What Should You Do With This Information?

You should try to figure out what your target score within this range should be. Don't just aim for a 1600. That is not necessary for every student. Your target score should be based on what school you hope to attend.

Find out that school’s SAT 25th/75th percentile score by searching “[College Name] SAT” in Google. The 25th percentile score signifies that 25% of accepted applicants score at or below that score. The 75th percentile score means that 75% of accepted applicants score at or below that score (so 25% of applicants scored higher).

To have the best chance of being admitted, you should aim for a score at or above the 75th percentile score. For a more in-depth explanation of figuring out what your target score should be, read What is a good SAT score? A bad SAT score? An excellent SAT score?.

What’s Next?

Trying to raise your SAT score? Check out our ultimate study guide.

Not sure where you want to go to college? Check out our guide to finding your target school.

Thinking about getting a job while in high school? Check out our guide to the 8 best jobs for teens and learn how to find yours!