SAT Percentile Chart
SAT percentiles show how your score compares with other test takers. This chart is built for quick lookup and planning.
Common SAT percentiles
Percentiles are approximate and should be used as planning ranges, not exact admissions guarantees.
| SAT score | Approximate percentile | Tier |
|---|---|---|
| 1600 | 99th+ | Perfect |
| 1500 | 98th | Elite |
| 1400 | 94th | Strong |
| 1300 | 86th | Competitive |
| 1200 | 74th | Above average |
| 1100 | 58th | Solid |
| 1050 | 49th | Near average |
| 1000 | 40th | Building |
Percentile versus admissions strength
Percentile tells you national rank. Admissions strength depends on the colleges on your list and where your score lands in their middle-50% range.
How to use this with your actual prep
Use score pages as decision tools, not reading assignments. Enter a real practice result, compare the section split to your target, then choose the next drill from the weaker section.
The useful next action is always concrete: take a timed module, review missed questions, or model whether a score is high enough for the schools on your list.
- Use the score calculator after every timed module.
- Check whether Math or Reading and Writing is limiting the total score.
- Turn the weakest section into a bank drill before taking another full test.
What decision this page should help you make
A score or admissions page is useful only if it changes your next action. Use it to decide whether to retest, which section is limiting the total, and whether your target colleges need a stronger score.
| If this is true | Do this next |
|---|---|
| Math is 40+ points lower than Reading and Writing | Run two Math domain drills before the next full module. |
| Reading and Writing is 40+ points lower than Math | Split practice between grammar rules and evidence/inference questions. |
| Your score is below the college middle-50% range | Plan a retake and target the weaker section first. |
| Your score is above the 75th percentile for your list | Spend prep time on grades, essays, and application fit instead of chasing small SAT gains. |
Practice this on 1600.now
FAQs
What percentile is a 1400 SAT?
A 1400 SAT is roughly the 94th percentile nationally.
What percentile is a 1500 SAT?
A 1500 SAT is roughly the 98th percentile nationally.
Keep working
Related SAT resources
- SAT Score Chart
Free SAT score chart with percentile bands, score tiers, college target ranges, and what each Digital SAT score usually means.
- SAT Percentile Lookup Table
SAT percentile lookup table for common score bands, with calculator links and interpretation for admissions planning.
- SAT Section Score Chart
SAT section score chart showing balanced and lopsided score splits for Digital SAT total-score goals.