Is an 1150 SAT score good enough for U.S. colleges?

An SAT score of 1150 falls in the middle range for many U.S. colleges and universities. This score puts you at approximately the 66th percentile, meaning you scored higher than about two-thirds of test-takers. For many public universities and regional colleges, an 1150 SAT score meets their typical admissions requirements.

Your 1150 SAT score could be competitive for schools like University of Oregon, where the middle 50% range of accepted students typically falls between 1080 and 1300. At Penn State's main campus, however, the middle range is slightly higher, typically between 1200 and 1400, so your score falls somewhat below their average.

Whether you should retake the SAT depends on several factors. If Penn State or similarly selective schools are your top choices, improving your score could strengthen your application. A higher score might also help you qualify for more merit-based scholarships, as many universities use SAT scores in scholarship considerations.

Remember that colleges evaluate applications holistically. Your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation all play significant roles in admissions decisions. If you're achieving strong grades in challenging courses and have compelling extracurricular achievements, an 1150 SAT score won't necessarily prevent your acceptance to many quality institutions.

Consider giving yourself 6-8 weeks of focused preparation if you decide to retake the test. Many students see score improvements of 50-100 points with dedicated study time and practice tests. However, if you're satisfied with applying to schools where your current score meets their typical range, you might better spend your time strengthening other aspects of your application.