SAT Percentiles: Read the Comparison Group
SAT Clarity Editorial ·
A percentile compares a score with a specified group. Use the group and reporting year shown on your official report.
What a percentile means
A percentile describes the share of a comparison group that scored at or below a score. It is not the percentage of questions answered correctly.
Why tables can differ
College Board reports different comparison populations, including nationally representative and SAT user groups. Check the exact group and year before comparing numbers from two tables. Do not treat an undated score-to-percentile list as universal.
Percentiles do not predict admission
A test percentile is not an admission probability. Review each college’s current testing policy and published score information in context. Scholarship programs can use different criteria.
Make a useful study decision
Use your official report to identify skills to review. Track practice accuracy separately; SAT Clarity does not convert its practice percentages into national percentiles.