Wondering what a 690 SAT score means for your college goals?
Understanding your 690 SAT score: Here, we’ll look at the intricacies of SAT scoring, unpack what a 690 score actually signifies, and debunk common misconceptions.
Implications of a 690 SAT score: Discover how your score compares to the national average and what it means for your college applications.
Improving your 690 score: We’ll provide tips on how to boost your score, potentially unlocking scholarship opportunities and acceptance into top-tier universities.
Harness the information in this guide to navigate your path with a 690 SAT score.
Understanding the SAT Scoring System
The SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) is one of the most widely used standardized tests for college admissions in the United States. It contains two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math. Understanding how scoring works is crucial when interpreting your own SAT scores and deciding what constitutes a “good” or “bad” score.
Scoring Model of the SAT
Each section on the SAT – Math, and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing – is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, rounding up to a total score between 400 and 1600. The scores from multiple-choice and grid-ins are totaled for each section. This figure is then converted to a scaled score through a statistical process known as ‘equating’. This ensures that a score from one test date is equivalent to a score from another date.
Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing Score
You will receive a raw score for each of the main sections. Raw scores are simply the number of questions answered correctly. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it’s always in your best interest to guess if you’re unsure.
Superscoring and Section Scores
On the SAT, the concept of superscoring allows colleges to consider your highest section scores across multiple tests. For instance, if English was your strong suit on one test and Math on another, colleges would consider your highest score from each section, regardless of the test date.
Misinterpretation of 690 Score
Contrary to popular belief, a 690 is not the lowest possible score on the SAT. The lowest possible score is 400 (200 on Math and 200 on Evidence-Based Reading and Writing). So, a student with a 690 has performed better than those scoring below this number.
Is 690 a Good SAT Score?
So, is a 690 SAT score good? To put it in perspective, it’s important to consider the national average. As of 2021, the average SAT score is approximately 1060. A score of 690 is below this average, but it’s essential to remember that what constitutes a “good” SAT score can depend greatly on your goals and the colleges you’re considering.
The Perspective of Admissions
From an admissions viewpoint, a good score is one that makes you competitive for your target schools. If, for instance, you’re aiming for Ivy League schools like Yale or Princeton, a 690 likely won’t measure up to their average accepted score, which is typically above 1400.
Considering Individual Scores
Breaking down your combined score into individual section scores might also help in understanding whether a 690 SAT score is good for you. If your score in the Math section is considerably higher than your reading and writing score, and you are applying for a course that focuses more on Mathematics, your individual Math score could hold more weight.
Is 690 a Bad SAT Score?
While it’s not beneficial to label any score as “bad”, a 690 SAT score might not make you a competitive candidate for selective or elite colleges. However, the meaning and implications of a 690 SAT score can vary depending on your individual goals and circumstances.
Contextualizing Your Score
For colleges like Harvard or other highly prestigious institutions, it’s clear that a 690 might not be competitive. However, for some colleges and universities, a 690 score might still fall within their accepted range.
Improving from a 690
If you’re dissatisfied with a 690 score and your target schools require higher scores, don’t despair. A strategic study plan, along with utilizing the right resources, can help you increase your score in future attempts.
690 SAT Score: Percentile
Upon receiving your SAT scores, you’re also provided with information about your percentile ranking. A percentile rank for a score is the percentage of students who scored lower than you.
If we examine the latest data from the College Board, a 690 score equates to around the 1st to 3rd percentile. This indicates that between 1 and 3 percent of students scored the same or lower than 690, putting the majority of test-takers above this score.
690 SAT Score to ACT
Attempting to compare SAT scores to ACT scores can be confusing due to the difference in scales (400-1600 for SAT, 1-36 for ACT). We use concordance tables released by the College Board and ACT to establish an approximate equivalent.
So, what ACT score corresponds to a 690 score? Students who score a 690 on the SAT tend to score between 13 and 15 on the ACT. Thus, if you have a 690 score, it would approximately equate to an ACT score of 14, which places you in the 19th percentile on the ACT scale.
Should I Submit a 690 SAT?
Whether to submit a 690 score is a decision that should hinge on your intended colleges, their average accepted SAT scores, and your individual goals. As you ponder this, it’s crucial to view your SAT score as a part of your broader application and not as the sole determinant.
Sat Scores and Admissions Odds
For the more selective colleges, such as Ivy League schools, average accepted SAT scores hover around the 1400 to 1600 range. So, Yale, Harvard, or Princeton may have a very low likelihood of accepting an SAT score of 690.
Conversely, other institutions are less rigorous with their SAT requirements and may offer a welcoming environment to students with a 690 SAT score. For instance, certain state universities and liberal arts colleges may have average SAT scores in the 500 – 700 range per section –making a cumulative 690 score potentially competitive at these institutions.
Considering a ‘Test-Optional’ Application
Also, don’t forget the option of applying as ‘test-optional’ at schools that offer this admission policy. This allows colleges to make decisions based on other factors, like GPA, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation, without considering your SAT scores.
Colleges Accepting a 690 SAT Score
While a 690 might limit your choices to the most competitive schools, there is still a myriad of colleges that find value in a broad range of scores and may accept a 690 score.
- State Colleges: Institutions like Chattanooga State Community College or Southern University at Shreveport fall into this category.
- Liberal Arts Colleges: Liberal Arts Colleges like Unity College and LaGrange College offer degrees in humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences and may accept scores in the 690 range.
While the list is not exhaustive, these institutions showcase the variety of schools where a 690 might fall within their accepted score range.
Scholarships for a 690 SAT Score
With a 690 score, you may find that scholarship options are more limited compared to higher scores.
Institutional Scholarships
Some colleges offer scholarships based on a range of factors, including SAT scores. While a 690 might not qualify you for the highest tiers of these scholarships, don’t lose hope. Many schools award scholarships based on other elements of your application, including GPA, involvement in extracurricular activities, or volunteer work.
External Scholarships
Remember, there are numerous external scholarships not tied to particular colleges or SAT scores. Many of these awards focus on talent, leadership, service work, or even specific career goals.
Tips to Improve Your 690 SAT Score
If you’re dissatisfied with a 690 score, here are some actionable steps to improve that score:
Create a Study Schedule
Consistency and regular practice are essential to increase your SAT score. Plan your study schedule to cover all content areas and dedicate a certain amount of time per week to SAT prep.
Use Official Study Material
The College Board, the organization that creates the SAT, provides free official study resources. Start with these materials, as they give you an insight into the actual structure and style of the test.
Consider a Tutor or a Study Group
If self-study isn’t sufficient, you might want to consider investing in a tutor or join a study group. This can enhance your understanding and keep you accountable.
For more information about improving your SAT score we recommend checking out: The College Board Website
SAT Scores 400 to 1600
Conclusion
A 690 score isn’t an end-all assessment of your abilities or future prospects. If higher-ranking colleges are your target, consider strategies to boost your score. Alternatively, there’s a range of colleges that may find a 690 score as part of a well-rounded application, acceptable. Remember, your SAT score is just one facet of your college application, and many colleges view your scores in the context of your overall academic and personal development journey. So, use every opportunity to showcase your strengths and capabilities, whether it’s through impactful essays, glowing letters of recommendation, or an impressive list of extracurricular activities.