Is a 1270 SAT score good enough?

A 1270 SAT score places you above the national average of 1050 and puts you in approximately the 85th percentile of all test takers. This means you scored better than about 85% of students who took the SAT, which makes your score competitive for many colleges and universities across the United States.

For schools like Penn State and Arizona State University, your 1270 SAT score aligns well with their typical admitted student profile. Penn State's middle 50% SAT range typically falls between 1200-1400, while Arizona State's range is typically 1120-1360. Your score of 1270 places you comfortably within these ranges, making you a competitive applicant for both institutions.

Whether you should retake the SAT depends on several factors beyond just these two schools. If you're considering more selective universities or hoping to qualify for merit-based scholarships, a higher score could strengthen your position. Many schools use SAT scores as criteria for scholarship consideration, and even a modest increase could potentially lead to better financial aid opportunities.

Before deciding to retake the test, consider your overall application strategy. Strong grades, compelling extracurricular activities, and well-written essays can often compensate for an SAT score that's slightly lower than your target. Additionally, many colleges now have test-optional policies, meaning you might not need to submit SAT scores at all. Focus your energy on strengthening other aspects of your application if you're satisfied with your current score's alignment with your target schools' typical ranges.