Credit Score Ranges: FICO and VantageScore Explained

Last reviewed: September 30, 2026

Base FICO Scores range from 300 to 850, and a score of 670–739 falls in FICO’s “Good” category. VantageScore uses different category boundaries, so identify the model before interpreting the number. A category label does not guarantee approval or a particular interest rate. [1] [2]

This guide compares the ranges and shows how to use them without treating a score as a loan quote. For the wider topic, explore our credit guide. For scoring basics and practical next steps, read credit scores explained.

FICO credit score ranges

myFICO publishes the following categories for base scores on the 300–850 scale. [1]

The boundaries describe categories. They are not universal lender thresholds, and lenders set their own criteria for different products. [1]

VantageScore credit score ranges

VantageScore’s guide to its 4.0 model publishes four credit tiers on the 300–850 scale. These are the provider’s tier names; popular free credit apps (like Credit Karma) often overlay their own custom terminology (such as calling a VantageScore of 750 “Excellent” instead of using the official VantageScore “Prime” or “Superprime” tiers). [2]

Do not apply FICO’s labels to a VantageScore number. The two providers use different models as well as different category boundaries.

The Rich Guy Math comparison: one number, different labels

Consider how two hypothetical numbers fit the published categories:

This is a comparison of category boundaries, not a conversion between scores. It does not mean a person with a 668 FICO Score also has a 668 VantageScore. The underlying models can produce different numbers.

The CFPB explains that a score can differ with the model, report data, credit product, and calculation date. [3] If two services show different numbers, record those details before assuming your credit has improved or worsened.

What does “good credit” tell you about a loan?

A higher score generally can help with qualification and terms. But the category alone cannot establish what a lender will offer. [3] FICO notes that lenders may also consider income, employment duration, and the type of credit requested. [4]

Use three separate checks when preparing to borrow:

1. Label: Which model produced the score, and which category applies?
2. Lender: Which score and application requirements does the lender use?
3. Budget: What would the actual offer cost, and can you afford the payments?

This is our editorial checklist for organizing a borrowing decision. A move into a new category does not establish that the lender’s pricing changes at the same boundary.

Original calculation: compare loan costs using rates, not score promises

Suppose you compare two hypothetical offers for a $30,000 loan repaid over 60 months. One has a fixed annual interest rate of 6%; the other has 9%. Assume equal monthly payments, monthly interest, and no fees or extra payments.

The difference is approximately $42.77 per month and $2,566.00 in total interest. Both figures come from the loan assumptions. They cannot be assigned to particular credit scores without actual lender offers.

The calculation uses payment = P × r ÷ [1 − (1 + r)⁻ⁿ], where P is $30,000, r is the annual interest rate divided by 12, and n is 60. Total interest equals the unrounded payment multiplied by 60, minus principal. Displayed figures are rounded to cents; an actual payment schedule can differ slightly because of rounding and lender conventions.

To explore a repayment scenario with your own assumptions, use our loan payoff calculator. Compare actual offers, including fees and terms, before choosing a loan.

What to check if you want to improve your credit profile

Start with the information behind the score rather than a promised point increase:

• Payment records: Check accuracy and upcoming obligations with our payment history guide.
• Reported balances: Review the figures and ratios in our credit utilization guide.
• Unfamiliar entries: Use our walkthrough of how to read a credit report to locate the account or inquiry.
• Scoring categories: Read FICO score factors to understand the information the model evaluates.

In FICO’s framework, Amounts Owed is the category commonly shown as 30%; utilization is one part of it. FICO also says the precise effect of a single factor cannot be measured without considering the entire report. A payment or new account therefore cannot be assigned a universal point gain or loss. [4]

Frequently asked questions

Is 700 a good credit score?

On the base FICO scale, 700 falls in the Good category. In VantageScore’s published 4.0 tiers, it falls in Prime. Neither label guarantees an approval or particular rate. [1] [2]

Can a credit score go above 850?

Base FICO Scores stop at 850, but industry-specific FICO Auto and Bankcard Scores use a 250–900 range. Check the score type before treating a number above 850 as an error. [5]

Do I need an 850 score to qualify?

There is no universal score requirement for every lender and product. Ask about the criteria for the specific credit you want rather than assuming the maximum score is necessary. [1]

Why did my score change without changing categories?

Each category covers multiple numbers. A hypothetical base FICO change from 700 to 720 stays within Good. Category labels provide a broad summary, so record the actual score and its model when comparing results.

Your next step

Record your model, score, bureau, and calculation date. Then identify the question you need to answer: interpreting a category, checking report information, or comparing a loan offer. The appropriate next step depends on that question.

Sources and calculation notes

1. myFICO: Credit scores and score ranges
2. VantageScore: Guide to your VantageScore 4.0
3. CFPB: What is a credit score?
4. myFICO: What’s in your FICO Scores?
5. myFICO: Base and industry-specific score versions

The category comparison and loan calculations are educational illustrations prepared by The Rich Guy Math. The assumed interest rates are not market-rate claims or predictions of what any score will receive.

About the author

Max Fonji is the founder and financial education writer behind The Rich Guy Math. He explains personal-finance concepts through research, calculations, and practical examples.

Educational disclosure

This guide provides general education about U.S. credit scoring and borrowing costs. It does not provide individualized financial, credit-repair, or legal advice. Account terms, scoring results, and lender requirements vary.