Is 470 a Good SAT Score?
A 470 puts you at the <1 percentile of SAT takers — well below average — consider whether test-optional applications or a structured retake plan serves you better.
470 on the SAT = <1 percentile (vs. the 1029 national average).
- Score470
- Percentile (test takers)<1
- vs. national average-559 pts
- VerdictBelow average
Source: College Board 2025–26 percentile tables (test takers, past three classes).
Scores near 470
| SAT score | Percentile (test takers) |
|---|---|
| 410 | <1 |
| 430 | <1 |
| 450 | <1 |
| 470 | <1 |
| 490 | <1 |
| 510 | <1 |
| 530 | 1 |
Jump to: 420 · 460 · 480 · 520 · next milestones: 1100 · 1200
What a 470 means in practice
The national average is 1029, so a 470 sits below it by 559 points — well below average — consider whether test-optional applications or a structured retake plan serves you better. Percentiles compress at the top: 40 points around 1000 moves you ~7 percentile ranks, while 40 points past 1500 moves you one. Superscoring (mixing best section scores across dates) is accepted at most selective schools, so section-level retakes are usually the efficient move.
Frequently asked questions
Is 470 a good SAT score?
A 470 is at the <1 percentile of SAT takers — well below average — consider whether test-optional applications or a structured retake plan serves you better.
What percentile is a 470 SAT score?
<1th percentile among students who took the SAT in the past three graduating classes, per College Board tables.
Can I get into college with a 470?
Yes — admissions is a match game, not a bar exam. Most colleges admit the majority of applicants, many are test-optional, and a prep cycle typically moves scores 50-100+ points.
Sources & methodology
Sources: College Board — Understanding SAT Scores.
Percentiles are official College Board user norms; verdicts are editorial guidance, not admissions predictions.