Is 1470 a Good SAT Score? Test Insights + Tips

You just got your SAT results, and you’re feeling a mix of excitement, nerves, and maybe a little stress. As you stare at that 1470 SAT score, one big question pops into your head: Is this a good score? Should you celebrate, or start prepping for a retake? And most importantly—will this get you into your dream school?

Your SAT score plays a big role in the college admissions process, helping you figure out which schools are within reach. But it’s not the only thing that matters—your GPA, extracurriculars, and essays all play a part too. Still, the SAT is one part of the equation, and understanding where a 1470 SAT score stands can help you make the best decision for your future.

In this blog, we’ll break down what a 1470 SAT score really means, how it compares to other scores, and whether it’s strong enough for the colleges you have in mind. Plus, we’ll share some tips on what to do next—whether that means sticking with your score or aiming even higher!

• How Good Is a 1470 SAT Score?
• Colleges You Can Get into with a 1470 SAT Score
• Should You Retake the SAT?
• How to Improve Your SAT Score
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Good Is a 1470 SAT Score?

With a 1470 SAT score, you’re in a strong position, placing you around the 96th percentile. This means you’ve outperformed the vast majority of test-takers—an impressive achievement! However, college admissions are incredibly competitive, and even a high SAT score isn’t always enough to guarantee a spot at the most selective schools.

So, is a 1470 SAT score good enough for top colleges? While it’s certainly a strong score, Ivy League schools and other elite universities often have median SAT scores in the 1500+ range. If you’re aiming for schools like Harvard, Yale, or Stanford, a 1470 may be slightly below their typical admitted student profile. That said, admissions decisions also consider your GPA, extracurriculars, essays, and other factors.

To help you gauge where you stand, here’s a breakdown of SAT score ranges at top universities and what they mean for your chances:

While a 1470 SAT score is certainly competitive, if you’re targeting schools like Harvard or Yale, you may want to consider retaking the test to boost your chances. However, you also have the chance to get into Dartmouth provided the other parts of your application—like your GPA and extracurriculars are top-notch.

Colleges You Can Get into with a 1470 SAT Score

With a 1470 SAT score, you’re in an excellent position for many top universities. While the most selective Ivy League schools and elite institutions may still be a reach, this score is highly competitive for a wide range of prestigious colleges.

Let’s explore some schools where a 1470 SAT score can make you a strong applicant!

1. Dartmouth College

Acceptance rate: 5.3%

Average tuition cost: $68,019

SAT range: 1440-1560

Dartmouth College offers the perfect mix of Ivy League prestige and a tight-knit community. With a 1470 SAT score, you’re in a competitive spot for admission to this historic institution, known for its focus on undergraduate education.

One of the most unique aspects of Dartmouth is its D-Plan, a flexible academic calendar that lets you customize when you take classes and internships throughout the year. The school is also home to the Tuck School of Business, one of the top business programs in the country, and the Thayer School of Engineering, which offers an innovative integration of liberal arts and engineering studies.

Beyond academics, Dartmouth has a deep-rooted sense of tradition, from its legendary Winter Carnival to the Ledyard Canoe Club, where students go on a rite-of-passage canoe trip down the Connecticut River. Notable alumni include Theodor Geisel (Dr. Seuss), U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Shonda Rhimes, the mastermind behind Grey’s Anatomy and Bridgerton.

2. Georgetown University

Acceptance rate: 12.3%

Average tuition cost: $65,082

SAT range: 1390-1530

If you dream of attending college in the heart of Washington, D.C., Georgetown University is an incredible choice. With a 1470 SAT score, you have a strong shot at admission, especially for programs outside of the hyper-competitive School of Foreign Service (SFS).

Georgetown is renowned for its international relations, political science, and business programs, making it a top destination for future diplomats, policymakers, and business leaders. The campus itself is rich in history, offering stunning views of the Potomac River and easy access to the city’s political and cultural landmarks.

One thing that sets Georgetown apart is its Jesuit tradition, which emphasizes service, ethics, and global responsibility. You’ll also find a powerful alumni network that includes former President Bill Clinton, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, and journalist Maria Shriver—not to mention countless senators, diplomats, and business executives.

3. University of Southern California

Acceptance rate: 9.8%

Average tuition cost: $69,904

SAT range: 1450-1530

If you’re looking for a university that combines world-class academics, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant social scene, USC should be high on your list. A 1470 SAT score puts you in the competitive range for many programs, though some—like the prestigious USC Marshall School of Business and School of Cinematic Arts—can be especially tough to get into.

USC is known for its strong ties to the entertainment industry, making it an ideal choice if you’re interested in film, media, or business. Its School of Cinematic Arts has produced some of Hollywood’s biggest names, including George Lucas, Ron Howard, and Shonda Rhimes. USC also excels in engineering, entrepreneurship, and computer science, with strong programs at the Viterbi School of Engineering and the Iovine and Young Academy.

Beyond academics, USC has a legendary school spirit, and game days at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum are an unforgettable experience. As a student, you’ll be part of the Trojan Family, a global alumni network that opens doors in nearly every industry.

4. Boston University

Acceptance rate: 11.1%

Average tuition cost: $68,102

SAT range: 1410-1500

Right in the heart of Boston, Boston University offers the perfect mix of urban excitement and academic excellence. With a 1470 SAT score, you’re in a solid range for admission to many of BU’s top programs, including business, communications, and international relations.

One of BU’s biggest strengths is its global focus—the school has a strong study abroad program, with more than 90 programs in over 30 cities worldwide. It’s also home to the renowned Questrom School of Business and the College of Communication, making it a great choice if you’re interested in media, marketing, or finance.

BU’s campus sits along Commonwealth Avenue, giving you easy access to Fenway Park, the Charles River, and Boston’s wealth of historic and cultural attractions. The university has also produced some impressive alumni, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Julianne Moore.

5. University of California-Los Angeles

Acceptance rate: 9%

Average tuition cost: $14,478 (in-state)

SAT range: 1290-1510

A 1470 SAT score puts you in a strong position for UCLA, though competition is fierce—especially for impacted majors like engineering, business economics, and film. But if you get in, you’ll be joining one of the most dynamic and diverse campuses in the country.

UCLA is known for its top-tier academics, groundbreaking research, and unbeatable location in West Los Angeles. Whether you’re interested in STEM, social sciences, or the arts, UCLA has a program for you. The School of Theater, Film, and Television is one of the best in the country, while the Anderson School of Management is a top choice for business-minded students.

Beyond academics, UCLA’s campus life is vibrant, with more than 1,000 student organizations and a strong sense of Bruin pride. Game days at Pauley Pavilion and the Rose Bowl are legendary, and you’ll never run out of things to do in LA. Famous alumni include Jackie Robinson, James Franco, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar—just to name a few.

Should You Retake the SAT?

With a 1470 SAT score, deciding whether to retake the test comes down to your college goals. If you’re aiming for highly competitive schools like the Ivy League, Stanford, or MIT, improving your score could give you a better edge, as their middle 50% SAT range often starts in the high 1400s and extends well into the 1500s.

That said, a 1470 is already a strong score. If you’re applying to test-optional schools or have a standout GPA, extracurriculars, and essays, retaking the SAT might not be necessary. Some colleges place less emphasis on standardized tests, so in certain cases, focusing on other parts of your application—like writing a compelling personal statement or securing strong recommendation letters—could be a smarter move.

How to Improve Your SAT Score

So, you’ve got a 1470 SAT score—that’s already an impressive achievement! But if you’re aiming for Ivy League schools or other top-tier universities, you might be wondering if there’s room for improvement.

The good news? A few strategic changes can help you push your score even higher. Here are some key tips to help you break past that 1470 and reach your full potential.

1. Expand your vocabulary.

You might not think vocabulary plays a big role in the SAT, but having a strong grasp of commonly tested words can make all the difference. The reading and writing sections often include tricky phrasing, and understanding key terms can help you avoid misinterpreting questions.

Try studying SAT-specific word lists, using flashcards, or practicing with official SAT reading passages to boost your comprehension skills.

2. Never leave an answer blank.

A common myth is that skipping a question is better than guessing—but that’s not true! Since the SAT has no penalty for wrong answers, you should always take an educated guess rather than leave a question unanswered.

If you can eliminate even one or two answer choices, your odds of selecting the correct one improve significantly. So, always give it your best shot!

3. Stick to a regular study schedule.

Studying in random bursts won’t help you retain information as well as consistent practice. Instead of cramming, create a study schedule that fits your routine. Even a few hours per week can make a big difference.

Try mixing up your study methods—take full-length practice tests, review your mistakes, and focus on weaker sections to ensure steady progress.

4. Use official SAT prep materials.

Not all SAT prep resources are created equal. While there are tons of test prep books and courses out there, official SAT materials from the College Board are the most reliable.

Practicing with real SAT questions gives you a better idea of the test format and difficulty level, which can sharpen your test-taking skills and improve your score.

5. Consider working with a private tutor.

Studying on your own can be overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure which strategies will actually help you improve. That’s where a private tutor can make a big difference. We provide personalized coaching tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. Whether it’s time management tips, question breakdowns, or test-taking strategies, we’ll help you build a plan to maximize your score potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a 1470 SAT score good?

A 1470 SAT score is very strong, placing you in the 96th percentile of test-takers. This means you outperformed 96% of students, which is no small feat!

However, for Ivy League schools and other ultra-competitive universities, the middle 50% SAT range typically falls between 1500-1560, meaning a 1470 is on the lower end but still within reach.

2. What is 1470 SAT to ACT score?

A 1470 SAT score is equivalent to an ACT composite score of 33.

3. Should I take the SAT if my dream school is test-optional?

It depends on your academic profile. If your SAT score is strong (above the school’s median), submitting it can boost your application. However, if your score is on the lower end, it might be better to leave it out and focus on other strengths—like your GPA, extracurriculars, and essays.

Takeaways

• A 1470 SAT score is already strong, but with the right strategies, you can take it even higher especially if you’re aiming for the Ivies.
• Some of the schools you can apply to with a 1470 SAT score include Dartmouth, Georgetown, USC, Boston University, and UCLA.
• Want to boost your 1470 SAT score? A college admissions coach can help you do just that—and even guide you in crafting the perfect application strategy for your dream school.