Learn
A1c goals in diabetes
There is no single right A1c. Goals are set person by person, and 7% is the most common starting point.
The common goal: below 7%
The ADA Standards of Care describe an A1c goal below 7% as appropriate for many nonpregnant adults with diabetes, as long as it is reached without significant hypoglycemia (ADA Standards 2026, sec. 6). Studies have shown that some people can lower their risk of complications by staying below 7% (NIDDK).
When a less strict goal fits
A goal that is safe for one person may not be safe for another (NIDDK). A less strict goal, such as below 8%, may suit people with (ADA Standards 2026, sec. 6):
- a history of severe hypoglycemia, or trouble sensing low blood sugar
- limited life expectancy
- advanced complications, such as kidney, nerve or heart disease
- long-standing diabetes and difficulty reaching a lower goal despite effort
NIDDK lists the same groups for an A1c between 7% and 8%, or higher in some cases (NIDDK).
Very high A1c
The ADA Standards say early insulin should be considered when A1c is above 10%, glucose is 300 mg/dL or higher, or there are symptoms of high blood sugar or signs of catabolism such as unplanned weight loss (ADA Standards 2026, sec. 9).
How progress is checked
People with diabetes are generally advised to test A1c at least twice a year, and more often when not at their goal (NIDDK).
See A1c 7.0% and A1c 8.0%. Goals for adults 65 and older are on A1c by age.
Sources
- American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 6. Glycemic Goals, Hypoglycemia, and Hyperglycemic Crises: Standards of Care in Diabetes 2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1). doi.org/10.2337/dc26-S006
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIH). The A1C Test & Diabetes. www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/a1c-test
- American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee. 9. Pharmacologic Approaches to Glycemic Treatment: Standards of Care in Diabetes 2026. Diabetes Care. 2026;49(Suppl 1). doi.org/10.2337/dc26-S009
Written and maintained by the controla1clevels.com editorial team. We do not have a medical reviewer; every claim links to its primary source above. Last reviewed: 2026-10-25. Spotted an error? See About.