Colleges for a 820 on the SAT

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• About a 820 SAT score
• Colleges to consider with a 820 SAT
• Search the full list of colleges

Is a 820 SAT Score Good?

When it comes to college admissions, a 820 SAT score places you in the 17th percentile of test-takers, meaning you have scored higher than 17% of students. Compared to the national average SAT score, which is around a 1010, a 820 is approximately 190 points below. Admissions officers typically consider this score on the lower end of the spectrum. An 820 might indicate challenges in certain academic areas, but remember, it's only one part of your application. The equivalent ACT score for a 820 SAT is a 14. This score can still open doors to a variety of colleges, especially those with less selective admission policies.

Colleges that Accept a 820 SAT Score

Colleges that typically accept students with a 820 SAT are generally classified as less selective. These institutions provide opportunities for students who may not have excelled on standardized tests but show potential through other aspects of their application, such as essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. Public universities like Texas Southern University, Albany State University, and North Carolina Central University often admit students with scores in this range. Additionally, private colleges such as Saint Augustine?s College, Bloomfield College, and Benedict College are also within reach. For a comprehensive list of 44 colleges where a 820 SAT score is within the typical range, explore the full list provided below this article.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 820?

Deciding whether to retake the SAT depends on your college aspirations and how much you're willing to invest in preparation. If improving your score could open doors to more selective institutions or secure scholarships, retaking the test might be beneficial. With dedicated study, students typically see an improvement of around 100-150 points. Higher scores could make schools like Texas State University, San Francisco State University, and University of North Texas more accessible. Besides retaking the SAT, you can enhance your admissions chances through strong personal statements, leadership roles in extracurricular activities, and excellent recommendation letters.

Scholarship Opportunities with a 820 SAT

While higher SAT scores often correlate with more scholarship opportunities, students with a 820 SAT can still find merit-based financial aid. Many colleges offer scholarships based on holistic reviews of student applications, considering factors like GPA, extracurricular involvement, leadership, and community service. Additionally, some institutions and organizations provide scholarships aimed at supporting students from diverse and underserved backgrounds. It?s also worth exploring local scholarships and grants offered by community foundations or organizations, where the competition might be less intense.

Exploring Your Options

Your SAT score is just one aspect of your college application. While a score of 820 is below the national average, it doesn?t define your potential or limit your future. Many colleges recognize the multitude of ways students can demonstrate their strengths and capabilities beyond standardized tests. For a detailed list of 44 colleges where a 820 SAT score falls within the range of accepted students, scroll down to explore your options. Remember, each application tells a unique story, and colleges look for diverse and passionate students to enrich their campuses.