Is 1400 a Good SAT Score? The SAT remains one of the most important factors in college admissions, and students often wonder where their scores stand. If you’ve scored a 1400 on the SAT, you’re likely asking: Is this score good enough for my dream schools?
The short answer is yes—a 1400 is an excellent score, placing you in the top 5% of test-takers nationwide. However, whether it’s “good enough” depends on your specific college goals.
This comprehensive guide will break down:
- How a 1400 SAT compares nationally
- What colleges accept 1400 SAT scores
- Whether you should retake the test
- How to maximize your college application with this score
Table of Contents
Understanding SAT Percentiles: Where Does 1400 Stand?
The SAT is scored on a 400-1600 scale, combining:
- Math (200-800)
- Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (200-800)
A 1400 SAT score means you scored higher than approximately 95% of test-takers. Here’s the percentile breakdown:
| SAT Score Range | Percentile Rank |
|---|---|
| 1550-1600 | 99+ percentile |
| 1450-1540 | 98-99 percentile |
| 1400-1440 | 94-97 percentile |
| 1300-1390 | 88-93 percentile |
| 1200-1290 | 76-87 percentile |
Key Takeaways:
- Top 5% nationally – A 1400 is well above average
- Competitive for most colleges – Including many top 50 schools
- May need higher for elite colleges – Ivy Leagues average 1480+
Will a 1400 SAT Get You Into Top Colleges?
Colleges Where 1400 is Competitive
A 1400 SAT makes you competitive at:
- Boston University (Avg SAT: 1360-1480)
- University of Florida (Avg SAT: 1320-1460)
- University of Texas at Austin (Avg SAT: 1230-1480)
- University of Wisconsin-Madison (Avg SAT: 1330-1450)
- Northeastern University (Avg SAT: 1440-1540) —near the lower end
Reaches (Possible but Not Guaranteed)
- University of Michigan (Avg SAT: 1350-1530)
- University of Virginia (Avg SAT: 1400-1540)
- NYU (Avg SAT: 1450-1570)
Likely Too Low For:
- Ivy League schools (Harvard, Princeton, Yale – avg 1480-1580)
- MIT, Caltech, Stanford (avg 1500+)
Should You Retake the SAT with a 1400?
When to Retake:
✅ If your dream school’s average is 1450+ (e.g., Ivy Leagues)
✅ If you’re applying for competitive scholarships
✅ If you underperformed on test day
When 1400 is Enough:
✔ For most state flagship universities
✔ If your GPA and extracurriculars are strong
✔ If you’re happy with your college list
How to Improve from 1400 to 1500+
If you decide to retake, here’s how to maximize your score:
1. Focus on Your Weakest Section
- Math: Master advanced algebra, problem-solving
- Reading: Improve passage analysis skills
- Writing: Perfect grammar rules
2. Take 3-4 Full-Length Practice Tests
- Use official College Board tests for accuracy
- Analyze every mistake
3. Refine Test-Taking Strategies
- Skip & Return to difficult questions
- Double-check easy questions to avoid careless errors
- Pace yourself – don’t rush
FAQs About a 1400 SAT Score
1. Is 1400 good enough for Ivy League?
It’s possible but below average. Ivy Leagues typically want 1450+, but exceptional essays/ECs can compensate.
2. What scholarships can I get with 1400?
Many merit-based scholarships at state schools, but elite scholarships (e.g., Robertson, Morehead-Cain) often want 1450+.
3. How many questions can I miss for 1400?
Roughly:
- Math: 8-12 wrong
- Reading/Writing: 10-15 wrong
4. Does 1400 qualify for National Merit?
No—you typically need 1450+ (varies by state).
5. Do colleges superscore the SAT?
Most do! They’ll take your best section scores across test dates.
Final Verdict: Is 1400 a Good SAT Score?
Yes—a 1400 is an outstanding score that makes you competitive at most universities. While it may not guarantee admission to hyper-selective schools, it positions you well for:
- Top 50 national universities
- Elite merit scholarships at public schools
- Honors programs at many colleges
Next Steps:
- Check your target schools’ middle 50% SAT ranges
- Decide if retaking is worth 100+ more points
- Focus on strengthening other application areas (essays, ECs)
(Note: SAT policies vary—always verify with individual colleges.)
