980 SAT Score: Popular Colleges You Can Get Into
Texas State and the University of North Texas both enroll students around a 980 SAT. You're looking at roughly 1,200 colleges that match this score, so you already have a wide set of options. It sits a bit below the typical national mark, but it's a workable starting point with room to grow.
How 980 SAT Compares Nationally
- Percentile: 34th - higher than about 34% of recent test-takers.
- National average: Near or below 1050 - the typical national score.
- ACT equivalent: ~18 composite (College Board/ACT concordance).
- College options: Competitive at 1,261 schools (446 target, 451 reach, 364 safety).
Is a 980 SAT Score Good?
A 980 SAT is a workable score at a lot of familiar publics, even if it is not a standout result. Georgia State (940-1180) and San Francisco State (930-1130) both include 980 in the middle 50%. Towson runs 950-1235, so you're toward the lower end there, but still in range.
More selective publics sit higher. Arizona State usually looks at 1100-1320, and Texas A&M College Station starts around 1150, so those stay reaches. You can apply, but the SAT would be the weaker part of your application.
Colleges look at more than this one test score. Your GPA, essays, activities, and recommendations still carry a lot of weight, especially at schools that already enroll students around 980.
Colleges You Can Get Into with a 980 SAT
Familiar names in range include Texas State (980-1200), Georgia State (940-1180), and Sam Houston State (930-1120). Miami Dade College is a much safer bet if you want a likely backup. A school like Texas Tech is tougher, since 980 sits below its usual band.
Target Schools (Competitive Chance of Admission)
A 980 lands inside the middle 50% at Texas State and Grand Valley State, so you have a good shot if the rest of your application holds up. These are schools where your SAT matches students they already admit.
Reach Schools (Lower Admission Chance)
Arizona State and San Diego State both post middle 50% ranges that start around 1090-1100, so a 980 is below what they usually enroll. Possible, but tougher. Treat them as reaches.
Safety Schools (Very High Chance of Admission)
You have hundreds of safer options at this score. Alabama State (749-967) and Savannah State (845-980) sit clearly under a 980, so your odds look strong if you want a likely backup.
View the full list of colleges that accept a 980 SAT
Top Choices in Popular U.S. States
Browse colleges for a 980 SAT in popular states:
Local Options for a 980 SAT
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Should you retake the SAT if you have a 980?
A retake is often worth it with a 980 if you can prep with a real plan. A modest bump can move you off the low end of many target ranges and make some current reaches more realistic. If another test date is still open, it is usually a smart use of time.
| Pros of retaking | Cons of retaking |
|---|---|
| May open stronger public universities | Time away from grades and activities |
| Moves you toward the middle of target ranges | Gains need focused prep, not a lucky day |
Students who prep seriously often gain about 50-100 SAT points. Take official practice tests, review the math and reading items you miss, and spread practice over a few weeks instead of cramming the night before.
Apply with your 980 if you are ready, or spend a few weeks prepping and take the SAT again.
980 SAT to ACT Equivalent Conversion
Colleges use concordance tables to compare SAT and ACT scores. The following table shows the 980 SAT to ACT equivalent and nearby scores for context. These conversions are approximate.
| SAT Score | ACT Equivalent |
|---|---|
| 920 | 17 |
| 940 | 17 |
| 960 | 18 |
| 980 | 18 |
| 1000 | 19 |
| 1020 | 19 |
| 1040 | 20 |
Individual colleges may interpret scores slightly differently, so treat concordance as a guide rather than an exact rule.
Frequently Asked Questions
A 980 SAT places you in about the 34th percentile nationally, meaning you scored higher than about 34% of recent test-takers.
Next Steps
- Search and filter colleges matching your 980 SAT
- Compare nearby scores: 970 and 990
- Browse the equivalent 18 ACT college list
Published: August 19, 2026