Is 470 a Good SAT Score?
A 470 SAT score is generally considered developing. This score is around the 5th percentile.
The most important question is whether 470 is competitive for your target colleges and whether improving your score would meaningfully change your options.
Score
470
Percentile
5th
Band
400-490
If your SAT result is a 470, the central question is whether another test date will improve your application more than the time it costs. This score sits in the 400-490 band, is around the 5th percentile, and is often described as a starting-point score.
Below are concise points to help a retake-first student weigh the choice without overcomplicating it.
Quick facts:
- Score = 470
- Percentile = 5
- Percentile ordinal = 5th
- Score band = 400-490
- Level = developing
- Verdict = a starting-point score
Should you retake a 470 SAT score?
If you have time and can change how you prepare, a retake is often the practical route. The goal is to improve applications, not just the headline number.
When retaking is worth the time
- There is a clear gap between 470 and the scores your target schools typically expect.
- You can put meaningful, focused prep into place before applications are due.
- Improved scores would open more scholarship or program opportunities important to you.
When keeping a 470 may be the better choice
- Your application needs attention in areas other than testing (grades, essays, activities).
- Test-optional policies or programs you're applying to make the score less pivotal.
- You expect only small, uncertain score gains from another test date.
How much can a higher score help?
A higher SAT outcome helps in direct proportion to how it shifts your standing against the schools you want. For some students a modest jump widens options; for others the admissions picture barely changes.
Bottom line on a 470 SAT score
A 470 is a legitimate starting point. Treat the decision to retake as a tactical choice: if you can reasonably increase the score before deadlines, retake. If other parts of your application need the time, focusing there can be the smarter play.
FAQ
Is 470 a bad SAT score?
Not automatically. It is low relative to the national distribution (5th percentile), but whether it is limiting depends on where you apply.
Should I submit a 470 SAT score?
Submit it only after checking how it compares to your colleges' typical ranges and whether sending it strengthens your overall application.
Can I get into college with a 470 SAT score?
Yes, but your options will differ. The practical question is which colleges match that score and whether improving it would broaden your choices.
Colleges for a 470 SAT score
Safety
No schools found in this category.
Target
No schools found in this category.
Reach
Range: 1500–1580
Cambridge, MA
Range: 1500–1570
Stanford, CA
Range: 1510–1580
Cambridge, MA
Range: 1500–1580
New Haven, CT
Range: 1490–1570
Princeton, NJ
Range: 1490–1570
New York, NY
Range: 1500–1570
Chicago, IL
Range: 1490–1560
Durham, NC