Every year, millions of high school students take the SAT as part of the college admission process. With many colleges adjusting their testing policies and the SAT evolving into a digital format, students are wondering — what is the average sat score 2024? This blog will give you the latest information, comparisons to previous years, and tips on how to interpret these numbers for your college plans.

Understanding the SAT: A Quick Overview

The SAT is a standardized test managed by the College Board, mainly used for college admissions in the United States. It measures a student’s skills in two key areas:

• Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW)
• Mathematics

Each section is scored between 200 and 800 points, giving a total possible score range from 400 to 1600. The SAT is designed to evaluate your readiness for college-level academics and is still accepted by most universities, even with the rise of test-optional policies.

The Average SAT Score for 2024

For students taking the SAT in 2024, the national average SAT score is estimated to be around 1050. This breaks down into:

• Average ERW Score: 530
• Average Math Score: 520

This average is based on the most recent data released by the College Board, considering both traditional and digital SAT test-takers. Keep in mind that averages may vary by state, school district, and even testing month.

Is the Average SAT Score in 2024 Different from Previous Years?

How it compares to 2023 and earlier

The 2024 average is consistent with recent years. In 2023, the national average SAT score was also close to 1050. In fact, for the past five years, the average SAT score has hovered between 1040 and 1060, showing little variation despite significant changes like the pandemic and the shift to digital testing.

This stability may surprise some, especially with more colleges going test-optional and fewer students taking the SAT compared to pre-2020 levels. However, the students who continue to take the SAT tend to be those aiming for competitive schools, which may balance out the average.

Why the Average SAT Score Matters

Understanding the average SAT score is helpful for students setting realistic goals. Knowing where you stand compared to the national average helps you adjust your preparation strategy and shortlist colleges more effectively.

• If your score is above 1050, you are scoring better than the average U.S. test-taker.
• If your score is below 1050, don’t panic. Many colleges still accept students with lower SAT scores, especially those with strong GPAs, extracurriculars, or essays.

For highly competitive schools, a score of 1300+ is generally recommended, while Ivy League or top-tier universities often look for scores closer to 1450–1550.

Factors That Influence SAT Scores in 2024

The Shift to Digital SAT

2024 marks the first full year of the new digital SAT format. The test is shorter, adaptive, and has a more streamlined structure compared to the traditional paper-based SAT. Students now take the test on approved devices and experience dynamic question sets that adjust based on their performance. While the goal is to make testing more efficient, it has also changed how students prepare, possibly affecting score patterns.

The Rise of Test-Optional Policies

Since the pandemic, hundreds of universities have continued or adopted test-optional policies. This allows students to decide whether they want to submit SAT scores when applying. As a result, some students with lower scores may opt out of reporting, leading to a slight boost or stabilization of the reported average scores.

What is Considered a Good SAT Score in 2024?

A good SAT score is relative to your goals. Here’s a general breakdown:

• Under 1050: Below average
• 1050–1200: Near-average, competitive for many regional and public universities
• 1200–1350: Above average, competitive for selective schools
• 1350–1500: Strong, competitive for top 100 universities
• 1500+: Excellent, competitive for Ivy League and elite institutions

Colleges often review your application holistically, so a slightly lower SAT score can still be offset by strong grades, leadership roles, or unique extracurricular achievements.

Tips to Improve Your SAT Score in 2024

Prepare for the Digital SAT Format

Familiarize yourself with the new digital SAT through official practice materials. Understanding the structure of the new test will give you a major advantage.

Consistent Practice Matters

Create a study schedule and stick to it. Regular practice, especially on full-length mock tests, helps you build stamina and confidence.

Focus on Your Weak Points

Use your practice test results to pinpoint areas for improvement. Whether it’s algebra, reading comprehension, or time management, targeted studying will yield better results.

Use Free Resources

Take advantage of free SAT prep resources, including the Khan Academy Official SAT Practice platform, which offers tailored study plans based on your previous SAT or PSAT scores.

Final Thoughts

The average SAT score for 2024 is 1050, remaining stable despite the shift to digital testing and evolving college admission trends. Whether you’re above or below this average, remember that your SAT score is just one part of your overall college application. Focus on improving where you can and present a balanced, strong application to make the most of your opportunities.