Is 580 a Good SAT Score?
A 580 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.
580 on the SAT = 1 percentile (vs. the 1029 national average).
- Score580
- Percentile (test takers)1
- vs. national average-449 pts
- VerdictBelow average
Source: College Board 2025–26 percentile tables (test takers, past three classes).
Scores near 580
| SAT score | Percentile (test takers) |
|---|---|
| 520 | <1 |
| 540 | 1 |
| 560 | 1 |
| 580 | 1 |
| 600 | 1 |
| 620 | 2 |
| 640 | 2 |
Jump to: 530 · 570 · 590 · 630 · next milestones: 1100 · 1200
What a 580 means in practice
The national average is 1029, so a 580 sits below it by 449 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 580 a good SAT score?
A 580 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 580 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 580?
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.