1130 SAT Score: Popular Colleges You Can Get Into
Your 1130 SAT already overlaps the usual SAT band at Arizona State and San Diego State. About 1,445 colleges fit this score, so you have a wide set of realistic options. You're in a good spot to look at familiar state universities and still keep a few tougher schools in mind.
How 1130 SAT Compares Nationally
- Percentile: 68th - higher than about 68% of recent test-takers.
- National average: Above 1050 - you're above the typical score.
- ACT equivalent: ~23 composite (College Board/ACT concordance).
- College options: Competitive at 1,445 schools (739 target, 200 reach, 506 safety).
Is a 1130 SAT Score Good?
Yes, a 1130 SAT is a good score for plenty of recognizable state universities. Texas Tech's middle 50% runs 1090-1280, and Appalachian State starts around 1120, so you're already in range at both.
Tougher schools are still worth a look, just not as comfortable matches. Michigan State's usual band starts at 1180, and Penn State's middle 50% begins at 1240, so those are reaches even if the rest of your application is strong.
Admissions offices still look at your GPA, essays, activities, and recommendations, not just this number. A stronger transcript can matter as much as another 40 points on the SAT.
Colleges You Can Get Into with a 1130 SAT
Cal State Long Beach (1020-1240) and the University of Kentucky (1070-1290) already include 1130 in the middle 50%. Texas Tech is in a similar band. Flagships like UT Austin and UCLA usually look for higher SAT scores and admit a much smaller share of applicants, so they are tougher bets from here.
Target Schools (Competitive Chance of Admission)
These are schools where 1130 is inside or near the middle 50%, so you have a good shot. Appalachian State (1120-1280) puts you at the low end of the usual band, and the University of Tampa (1070-1240) overlaps more comfortably.
Reach Schools (Lower Admission Chance)
An 1130 is below the typical middle 50% at these colleges, and many are selective on top of that. Clemson (1240-1410) and Baylor (1200-1400) are possible, just tougher to get into.
Safety Schools (Very High Chance of Admission)
Your score clears the usual range at schools like Sam Houston State (930-1120) and Cal State Fresno (890-1100). Odds look strong here, and there are hundreds of backups like these.
View the full list of colleges that accept a 1130 SAT
Top Choices in Popular U.S. States
Browse colleges for a 1130 SAT in popular states:
Local Options for a 1130 SAT
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Should you retake the SAT if you have a 1130?
You do not need to retake an 1130 SAT unless you want a better shot at more selective publics. If Michigan State, UCF, or similar schools are high on your list, another test date can help. Otherwise, this score is already enough for a lot of solid options.
| Pros of retaking | Cons of retaking |
|---|---|
| May open more selective publics like Clemson | Time away from grades and activities |
| Could move you closer to flagship SAT ranges | Gains are not guaranteed on a retake |
With serious prep, many students gain about 50-100 SAT points. Focus on your weaker section, take timed practice tests, and review every miss. A few weeks of consistent work beats cramming the week before.
Apply with your 1130 if your targets already fit, or prep for a retake if you want those higher-range schools.
1130 SAT to ACT Equivalent Conversion
Colleges use concordance tables to compare SAT and ACT scores. The following table shows the 1130 SAT to ACT equivalent and nearby scores for context. These conversions are approximate.
| SAT Score | ACT Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 1070 | 21 |
| 1090 | 21 |
| 1110 | 21 |
| 1130 | 23 |
| 1150 | 23 |
| 1170 | 24 |
| 1190 | 24 |
Individual colleges may interpret scores slightly differently, so treat concordance as a guide rather than an exact rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 1130 SAT places you in about the 68th percentile nationally, meaning you scored higher than about 68% of recent test-takers.
Next Steps
- Search and filter colleges matching your 1130 SAT
- Compare nearby scores: 1120 and 1140
- Browse the equivalent 23 ACT college list
Published: August 19, 2026