A percentile rank indicates the percentage of test-takers who scored at or below a particular score. If a student scores at the 75th percentile, they performed as well as or better than 75% of the comparison group. Percentiles help compare individual performance to peers.
Interpreting Percentiles
The 50th percentile represents average performance. Scores above 75th percentile are typically considered above average, while below 25th percentile may indicate below average performance. The comparison group matters—national, state, or local norms provide different contexts.
Percentiles vs. Percentages
Percentiles differ from percentage correct. A student answering 75% correctly might rank at any percentile depending on how others performed. Percentiles are relative measures of performance.