SAT Scoring · 7 min read · Published April 10, 2026

    Average SAT Scores by College: How to Read the Ranges

    How to use middle-50% SAT ranges from the Common Data Set to set realistic targets for any college on your list.

    Where to Find Real Numbers

    Every college publishes its middle-50% SAT range in the Common Data Set or admissions statistics page. Those are authoritative — don't trust third-party rankings for SAT data.

    Aim Above the 50th

    If your score is below a school's 25th percentile, your SAT is a weakness in the application. If it's above the 75th, your SAT is a strength. Aim for the 75th percentile at every school on your list.

    Related Posts

    Practice on 1600.now

    Apply what you just read. Run the numbers in the SAT score calculator, take a full Digital SAT module, or drill targeted skills in the question bank.

    Post 49 of 52 in the 1600.now Digital SAT blog.

    SAT® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this product.