What is a Good Score on the SSAT?
“What is a ‘good’ score on the SSAT?” This is one of the most common questions we hear at Test Innovators–especially from families who have just received a score report or completed a practice test. The truth is, the answer depends on your own personal goals and the schools you’re applying to. Here’s how to understand your score in context, and what you can do to improve.
Understand How the SSAT Is Scored
Before you can decide if a score is “good,” you first need to understand how the SSAT is scored and how to read your SSAT score report. Each section of the test—Verbal, Quantitative, and Reading—is scored individually, and then combined into a total scaled score. You will also receive a percentile rank, which shows how your scores compare to other test takers in your grade.
What Counts as a “Good” Score?
Even if you do know how the test is scored, determining a “good” score–versus an average score or a low score–is not always straightforward. In addition to your score, you must also know what range of scores are expected from the schools you’re applying to.
- Top tier schools often look for students scoring in the 85th percentile or higher.
- Moderately selective schools may consider students in the 60-80th percentile range.
Remember: Schools don’t publish cutoffs, and many consider SSAT scores alongside grades, essays, interviews and recommendations. Check out our list of SSAT target scores for admission to different schools.
Your Test Score is Only One Piece of the Puzzle
- Even a 99th percentile score isn’t a guarantee of admission.
- Conversely, scoring in a lower percentile range won’t automatically rule you out. A strong overall application can carry significant weight.
- Many top-ranking schools receive more qualified applicants than they can admit, which is why waitlisting at those particular institutions is common.
A Final Word: Don’t Panic
The SSAT can feel intimidating, but it’s only one part of your admissions journey. If things don’t go as planned with one school, just remember: There are many excellent schools out there, and with the right preparation and attitude, you’ll find the one that is right for you. This is why we suggest applying to all of the schools that you are interested in, and having a back-up or two in mind. At Test Innovators, we are here to help you prepare with confidence, boost your scores, and pursue a great education wherever your path may lead. Get started on your SSAT journey with TI today!
Originally published on December 11, 2017. Updated on June 10, 2025.
