How to interpret SAT score

Applying to College
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How will an SAT score of 1490 (770 verbal, 720 math) be perceived by colleges for a student applying next year? I’m curious about how it truly compares to historical scores, considering the significant changes to the SAT this year.

I understand that many other factors influence college admissions decisions. However, when it comes to the SAT specifically, I’m not entirely sure how colleges—particularly those in the top 20-50 range—might interpret this score.

I’d appreciate any insights or thoughts. Thanks!

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Very strong verbal, good enough math, especially if you’re not applying to a top school for STEM. It’s probably a good enough score to check the box for SAT. It wouldn’t hinder your admission to any school other than top STEM programs, would probably help for most schools. It’s going to come down to the other components of your application.

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You have to present that score when applying. If not, schools will assume you got much lower than a 1490.

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That is a very high percentile score: (SAT User Percentiles - College Board Research)

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Thank you. That was very insightful. Not going for STEM (history, econ or poli sci) and not applying to more than one top 20 school (combination of universities in the top 20-40 and colleges in the top 10-20 range). Thanks.

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I would basically just say that I think you got the sort of score that you needed for this application plan, so congratulations!

Edit: Actually, I did have one more thought. With a score that good, it is possible you could do what is sometimes called chase merit, meaning apply to colleges with robust merit programs where you might get a significant merit offer.

This depends on your entire application, particularly your grades/transcript. But it is a thought you might want to have in mind as you are putting together a final application list. Even if it is not your main strategy, why not see what a few such applications could get you in terms of offers?

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As stated its a great score so congrats to you. You can also use the schools CDS(Common data sets) section “C” to see where this falls in line with their other applicants. Another thing to consider is what is the Sat avg for your school? AOs will look at that and I will just assume you are above that. This all puts you in a great light applying to college as long as the rest of your application is similar.

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