Average SAT Score by State
Complete 2024 Rankings, Participation Rates & Score Analysis
Understanding average SAT scores by state is crucial for students, parents, and educators to benchmark performance and set realistic goals. The national average SAT score for the Class of 2024 is 1024 out of 1600, but state averages vary significantly from 885 to 1256.
This comprehensive guide presents official College Board data on SAT scores across all 50 states plus Washington D.C., including participation rates, Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (ERW) scores, and Math scores. Whether you're preparing for the SAT or analyzing educational outcomes, this data provides valuable insights into regional performance trends.
📚 What is the SAT?
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test widely used for college admissions in the United States and internationally. Owned and administered by the College Board, the SAT has been a cornerstone of college applications since 1926.
The current Digital SAT (introduced in 2024) consists of two main sections:
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW): Tests reading comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and rhetorical skills (Score range: 200-800)
- Mathematics: Covers algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and advanced math topics (Score range: 200-800)
The total SAT score ranges from 400 to 1600, calculated by adding the two section scores together. The test takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes to complete and is now administered digitally on laptops or tablets.
🏆 Complete SAT Score Rankings by State (2024)
| Rank | State | Total Score | ERW Score | Math Score | Participation |
|---|
📊 Understanding Score Components
📖 Evidence-Based Reading & Writing
National Average: 519/800
Highest State Average: 636 (Wyoming)
Lowest State Average: 453 (New Mexico)
The ERW section tests reading comprehension, vocabulary in context, command of evidence, and grammar/writing skills across literature, history, and science passages.
🔢 Mathematics
National Average: 505/800
Highest State Average: 623 (Kansas)
Lowest State Average: 431 (New Mexico)
The Math section covers algebra, problem-solving and data analysis, geometry, trigonometry, and advanced math concepts. Calculators are allowed for most questions.
📈 How Participation Rates Affect Average Scores
⚠️ Important Context: Participation rates significantly impact state average scores!
Low Participation States (1-10%): Higher average scores (typically 1150-1250+) because only highly motivated, college-bound students choose to take the SAT. These students are often better prepared and have stronger academic backgrounds.
High Participation States (90-100%): Lower average scores (typically 900-1000) because the SAT is mandated for all students, including those who may not be planning to attend four-year colleges or who haven't prepared extensively.
✅ States with Optional SAT
Examples: Kansas (2%), Nebraska (1%), Utah (2%)
Average Range: 1200-1256
📋 States with Mandatory SAT
Examples: Illinois (99%), Michigan (100%), New Mexico (100%)
Average Range: 885-970
🌟 Top 10 States by Average SAT Score
- Kansas - 1256 (ERW: 633, Math: 623) | Participation: 2%
- Wyoming - 1253 (ERW: 636, Math: 616) | Participation: 1%
- Utah - 1230 (ERW: 622, Math: 609) | Participation: 2%
- North Dakota - 1229 (ERW: 624, Math: 605) | Participation: 1%
- Nebraska - 1227 (ERW: 622, Math: 605) | Participation: 1%
- Wisconsin - 1221 (ERW: 610, Math: 610) | Participation: 2%
- Minnesota - 1215 (ERW: 608, Math: 607) | Participation: 3%
- South Dakota - 1214 (ERW: 613, Math: 602) | Participation: 1%
- Kentucky - 1208 (ERW: 616, Math: 592) | Participation: 2%
- Montana - 1204 (ERW: 613, Math: 592) | Participation: 4%
Note: All top 10 states have participation rates below 5%, indicating self-selection bias where primarily college-bound students take the SAT.
👥 States with Highest Participation (90-100%)
The following states require the SAT as part of their statewide assessment systems, resulting in 90-100% participation:
Key Insight: These states' averages reflect the entire student population, not just college-bound students, making direct comparisons with low-participation states misleading.
🗺️ Regional SAT Score Patterns
🌾 Midwest Region
Highest Scores: Kansas, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Dakota
Pattern: Very low participation rates (1-3%) lead to exceptionally high averages (1200+)
🏔️ Mountain West
Highest Scores: Utah, Wyoming, Montana
Pattern: Strong performance with low participation; students typically take ACT instead
🌊 Northeast
Top Performers: Massachusetts (1109), Vermont (1097)
Pattern: Higher participation (40-90%) with above-national-average scores
☀️ South
Mixed Results: Range from 919 (WV) to 1191 (TN)
Pattern: Significant variation based on participation rates and ACT prevalence
🎯 What is a Good SAT Score?
A "good" SAT score is relative to your college goals and the schools you're targeting. Here's how to interpret scores:
Pro Tip: Research the middle 50% SAT score range for your target colleges (the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students). Aim to score at or above the 50th percentile to be competitive.
🧮 Calculate Your SAT Score
Use our official Digital SAT Score Calculator to instantly convert your raw scores and predict your scaled scores
Calculate SAT Score →📈 How to Improve Your SAT Score
Whether you're scoring below your state average or aiming for the top percentiles, strategic preparation can significantly boost your SAT performance:
1️⃣ Take Official Practice Tests
Use College Board's official practice tests to identify your weak areas and track progress. Aim for 6-8 full-length practice tests before test day.
2️⃣ Focus on Weak Areas
Analyze your practice test results to identify specific topics that need improvement. Concentrated study on weak areas yields the fastest score gains.
3️⃣ Master Time Management
Practice pacing strategies to complete each section within the time limit. Learn when to skip difficult questions and return to them later.
4️⃣ Learn Test-Taking Strategies
Master elimination techniques, educated guessing, and question-specific strategies to maximize your score even on challenging questions.
5️⃣ Build Vocabulary & Reading Skills
Expand your vocabulary through targeted word lists and read challenging texts regularly to improve reading comprehension speed and accuracy.
6️⃣ Consider Professional Tutoring
Work with experienced SAT tutors who can provide personalized strategies, accountability, and expert guidance tailored to your specific needs.
🔗 Essential SAT Resources
🧮 Digital SAT Score Calculator
Convert your raw scores to scaled scores instantly with our official SAT scoring calculator
📊 PSAT Score Calculator
Calculate your PSAT scores and Selection Index for National Merit Scholarship qualification
📚 SAT Vocabulary Flashcards
Master essential SAT vocabulary with interactive flashcards and practice exercises
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the national average SAT score?
The national average SAT score for the Class of 2024 is 1024 out of 1600. This includes an average ERW (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) score of 519 and an average Math score of 505.
Which state has the highest average SAT score?
Kansas has the highest average SAT score at 1256, followed by Wyoming at 1253 and Utah at 1230. However, these states have very low participation rates (1-2%), meaning only the most prepared students typically take the SAT in these states.
Which state has the lowest average SAT score?
New Mexico has the lowest average SAT score at 885, followed by West Virginia at 919. Both states have high participation rates (89-100%), which means the SAT is mandatory and includes students of all ability levels.
Why do some states have higher average SAT scores than others?
State average SAT scores are heavily influenced by participation rates. States where the SAT is optional often have higher averages because only motivated, college-bound students take the test. States with mandatory SAT testing (100% participation) typically have lower averages because they include students of all academic levels, including those not planning to attend four-year colleges.
What is a good SAT score compared to state averages?
A good SAT score depends on your college goals. Generally, scoring 1200+ puts you in the top 25% nationally. Scores above 1350 are considered excellent and competitive for selective colleges. Compare your score to both your state average and the average scores of students admitted to your target colleges for the most relevant benchmark.
How can I improve my SAT score above my state average?
To improve your SAT score: (1) Take official practice tests to identify weak areas, (2) Study consistently using quality prep materials, (3) Focus on time management strategies, (4) Consider professional tutoring for personalized guidance, and (5) Take the test multiple times if needed. NUM8ERS offers expert SAT tutoring in Dubai with top 1% tutors.
Do colleges care about state SAT averages?
Colleges primarily focus on your individual SAT score, not your state's average. However, admissions officers understand that state participation rates affect averages. They evaluate your score in the context of your opportunities and compare it to other applicants from similar backgrounds.
How do participation rates affect SAT averages by state?
Participation rates significantly impact state averages. States with 1-10% participation typically have higher averages (1150-1250+) because only highly motivated students take the test. States with 90-100% participation have lower averages (900-1000) because the test is mandatory for all students regardless of college plans or preparation level.
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Final Thoughts
Understanding average SAT scores by state provides valuable context, but remember that your individual score matters most for college admissions. State averages are heavily influenced by participation rates—states requiring the SAT see lower averages because all students test, while optional-SAT states show higher averages from self-selected, motivated test-takers.
Focus on achieving your personal best score through consistent preparation, strategic practice, and expert guidance. Use state data as a benchmark, but set your goals based on your target colleges' admission requirements. With dedicated effort and the right resources, you can exceed both your state's average and national benchmarks to reach your college dreams.