Colleges for a 800 on the SAT

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Is a 800 SAT Score Good?

An SAT score of 800 is generally seen as below average when applying to colleges. Falling in the 14th percentile, this score means you scored better than only 14% of all test-takers. The national average SAT score is around 1010, so an 800 is about 210 points lower than the average. In terms of academic achievement, a score of 800 suggests that there are areas for improvement in your understanding of high-school level material. For comparison, an 800 SAT score translates to an ACT score of about 14. College admissions officers typically view this score as a sign that you may need additional support in your studies, though it doesn't necessarily spell the end of your college dreams.

Colleges that Accept a 800 SAT Score

With an SAT score of 800, you might find your best chances at institutions that are less selective. These colleges typically have a less stringent admissions process and often focus on holistic criteria such as extracurricular activities, essays, and personal recommendations. Public universities like Albany State University, South Carolina State University, and Central State University are examples where students with an 800 SAT score often gain admission. Private colleges such as Saint Augustine's College, Bloomfield College, and Paine College also typically admit students with this score. Additionally, there are some reach schools like San Francisco State University and Grand Valley State University where admission might be possible, albeit more challenging.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 800?

If your initial SAT score is 800, you might consider retaking the test, especially if your target schools have higher average scores. Many students see an improvement of 100-200 points on their second attempt, particularly if they invest in test preparation. A higher score can make you more competitive at a broader range of schools and potentially open doors to more selective institutions. Besides retaking the SAT, you can bolster your application by excelling in other areas: improving your GPA, participating in extracurricular activities, and writing compelling essays. All these elements can help showcase your strengths beyond standardized test scores.

Scholarship Opportunities with a 800 SAT Score

While merit-based scholarships often look for higher SAT scores, there are still opportunities for students with an 800. Some colleges offer scholarships specifically for students who may not have high test scores but excel in other areas like community service or leadership. Additionally, need-based financial aid can also provide support. Look into institutional scholarships at schools like Johnson C. Smith University or Lincoln College, which may have more flexible requirements. Remember, every bit helps, and combining smaller scholarships can significantly reduce your overall tuition costs.

Explore Your College Options

The journey to finding the right college is about more than just your SAT score. Below, you can explore a full list of 31 popular colleges where an 800 SAT score is within the typical range of accepted students, including public schools like Albany State University and Chicago State University, and private colleges like Bloomfield College and Paine College. Additionally, consider reach schools like San Francisco State University, which may offer conditional admission or special programs for students looking to improve. Continue reading to discover more options and find the best fit for your academic and personal goals.

Popular colleges to consider with a 800 SAT

Displaying 31 colleges where your 800 SAT score is within the typical range of past accepted students. You have a chance at being accepted but admission may be challenging at more selective colleges. Search, filter and sort this list or view by admission chance for 84 target schools (good chance), 1,068 reach (harder) schools and 1,332 safety (easier) schools you can consider.

List of Colleges for a 800 on the SAT
School SAT Score Range
Albany State University

Albany, GA

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740 to 900
South Carolina State University

Orangeburg, SC

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800 to 1050
Central State University

Wilberforce, OH

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770 to 950
Bowie State University

Bowie, MD

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800 to 1048
Saint Augustines College

Raleigh, NC

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780 to 940
Chicago State University

Chicago, IL

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750 to 963
Kentucky State University

Frankfort, KY

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783 to 978
Bloomfield College

Bloomfield, NJ

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770 to 960
Johnson C Smith University

Charlotte, NC

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800 to 980
Lincoln College

Lincoln, IL

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710 to 800
Paine College

Augusta, GA

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776 to 976
Fisher College

Boston, MA

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800 to 1070
Dallas Christian College

Dallas, TX

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793 to 1077
Piedmont International University

Winston Salem, NC

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770 to 1230
Gallaudet University

Washington, DC

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752 to 1089
Bethel College Mishawaka

Mishawaka, IN

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800 to 920
Livingstone College

Salisbury, NC

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800 to 960
Trinity College of Florida

Trinity, FL

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780 to 1150
Wright State University Lake Campus

Celina, OH

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790 to 890
Rust College

Holly Springs, MS

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440 to 1339
York College

York, NE

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800 to 1125
Tougaloo College

Tougaloo, MS

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790 to 1090
Marian University

Fond Du Lac, WI

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800 to 1080
Villa Maria College

Buffalo, NY

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730 to 1050
Northern State University

Aberdeen, SD

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800 to 1150
Mid Atlantic Christian University

Elizabeth City, NC

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760 to 1160
Visible Music College

Memphis, TN

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605 to 1250
Alice Lloyd College

Pippa Passes, KY

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760 to 1140
Mercy College of Ohio

Toledo, OH

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780 to 1030
Methodist College of Nursing

Peoria, IL

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800 to 1160

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