Is 1170 a Good Score on the New SAT?

A score of 1170 on the new SAT, which ranges from 400 to 1600, is considered to be around the average range. As of my last update in August 2023, the average SAT score for college-bound seniors typically ranged from 1050 to 1100. Therefore, a score of 1170 is slightly above average.

Implications for College Admission

The relevance of a 1170 score to your college admission prospects depends significantly on the specific schools you are applying to. Different colleges have varying average SAT score requirements. Some highly selective schools may expect scores above 1300, while others may accept scores below 1100.

College Requirements

Before setting your SAT score goals, it is important to review the admission requirements of each college. For highly competitive colleges, a higher score may be beneficial. For less competitive schools, a 1170 could be sufficient for admission.

Consider Your Goals and Other Application Components

Remember that SAT scores are just one component of your college application. GPA, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation also play significant roles in the admissions process. A well-rounded application may help to offset a score slightly below the expectations of certain colleges.

In summary, a 1170 is a solid score, particularly for many state schools and less competitive colleges. Still, you should consider your specific goals and the schools you are interested in. Each college has its own unique admissions criteria, and you should tailor your application strategy accordingly.

Understanding Percentile Rankings

Your SAT score of 1170 places you in the 68th to 75th percentile. This means that you have scored higher than 68% to 75% of all test takers. To put this into perspective, a score of 1050 is roughly at the 51st percentile, indicating that you are slightly above average.

While a 1170 is a respectable score, it could be improved with additional study and practice. Re-taking the SAT can help you achieve a higher score, which may be beneficial for competitive colleges and universities.

Benefits of a Good SAT Score

A score of 1170 is a good starting point. It places you in the top 71st percentile nationally out of the 1.7 million test takers of the SAT entrance exam. This score indicates that you have done an above-average job answering the questions on the Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing sections of the test.

This score can be particularly beneficial for applying to good universities abroad. Standardized tests like the SAT can play a significant role in your application. Therefore, it is advisable to utilize resources and tools that can help you strengthen your application, such as UniRely's website, which provides strategies and information to create a strong university application.