Introduction to SAT Scores in Florida
Florida’s SAT scores increased this year after dropping four years in a row. The state continues to lag the national average, but remains among the better scorers among states with high participation rates.
Florida’s average SAT score rose to 970 out of 1600, a 22-point increase from 2024, according to recently released data from the College Board, makers of the SAT, compared to a national average score of 1029. The increase largely mirrors the national trend.
Historical Context of SAT Scores
But the state’s average is still well below where it stood before the COVID-19 pandemic, which educators and experts have said fundamentally impacted students’ college readiness. Florida’s average score was 1017 in 2017, the oldest comparable year because the College Board adjusted the SAT scoring scale, and 999 in 2019.
Participation Rates and Their Impact
Florida’s SAT participation rate dropped from 95% last year to 87% this year. Paul Cottle, a physics professor at Florida State University who tracks education issues, wrote in an email that it is possible the students who didn’t take the SAT were weaker students, which would have moved Florida’s scores up. States with high participation rates tend to have lower scores, because students across the academic spectrum are taking the test rather than primarily high achievers.
Performance Among Peer States
But among 10 states with high participation rates, including Colorado, Indiana, Michigan and New Mexico, the Sunshine State holds its own. Florida ranks 3rd in average English scores and 2nd in English college readiness among states with at least 85% of graduates taking the SAT. In the same group of states, Florida ranks 4th in average math score and 5th in math college readiness.
College Readiness Benchmarks
Overall, the percentage of Florida test takers who achieved the SAT’s “college ready” benchmark increased in both math and reading this year. Math college readiness increased from 26% last year to 29% this year, and English college readiness increased from 53% to 59%. Nathalia Medina, a spokesperson for the Florida Department of Education, said in a statement that the increases show that Florida’s “approach” to education is working.
Socioeconomic Factors and Success
Family income and highest level of education continue to be an indicator of success on the SAT. In 2025, only 13% of Florida SAT takers with a median family income of $55,000 met college readiness benchmarks on both math and reading — and they scored an average 884. For students whose families make more than $117,610, about 54% met those same college readiness benchmarks and scored 1112 on average.
University Applications
Almost 40% of all SAT test takers in Florida sent their scores to the University of Central Florida, the most of any college or university.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Florida’s SAT scores have increased, the state still trails the national average. However, Florida remains competitive among states with high participation rates. The data also highlights the impact of socioeconomic factors on SAT success, emphasizing the need for continued support and resources for students from all backgrounds.
FAQs
Q: What was Florida’s average SAT score in 2025?
A: Florida’s average SAT score rose to 970 out of 1600.
Q: How does Florida’s SAT participation rate compare to last year?
A: Florida’s SAT participation rate dropped from 95% last year to 87% this year.
Q: How does Florida rank among states with high participation rates in terms of average English scores?
A: Florida ranks 3rd in average English scores among states with at least 85% of graduates taking the SAT.
Q: What percentage of Florida SAT takers met college readiness benchmarks on both math and reading?
A: The percentage of Florida test takers who achieved the SAT’s “college ready” benchmark increased in both math and reading this year, with 29% meeting the benchmark in math and 59% in English.
Q: Which university received the most SAT scores from Florida test takers?
A: The University of Central Florida received the most SAT scores from Florida test takers, with almost 40% of all SAT test takers in Florida sending their scores to the university.
Originally Published: October 1, 2025 at 2:23 PM EDT
