Colleges for a 990 on the SAT

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• About a 990 SAT score
• Colleges to consider with a 990 SAT
• Search the full list of colleges

Is a 990 SAT Score Good?

When considering college admissions, a 990 SAT score is slightly below the national average, which hovers around 1010. Sitting in the 46th percentile, a 990 places a student near the middle of the pack compared to other test-takers. While this score might not impress highly selective or elite institutions, it is still respectable and demonstrates a moderate level of academic proficiency. Admissions officers at many public and private universities recognize that a 990 reflects a student's potential and capabilities. As an ACT equivalent, this score translates to approximately a 19, helping students gauge their standing across both standardized tests.

Colleges That Accept a 990 SAT Score

Students with a 990 SAT score have several options when it comes to choosing colleges. Many less selective and somewhat selective institutions happily consider applicants with this score. Public universities such as Texas State University, San Francisco State University, Grand Valley State University, California State University Los Angeles, and California State University Sacramento often admit students with a 990. Private colleges including Clark Atlanta University, Hampton University, Azusa Pacific University, Wingate University, and the Culinary Institute of America are also known to accept students within this score range. Additionally, reach colleges such as Arizona State University, The University of Alabama, and San Diego State University may be worth considering for ambitious applicants.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 990?

Deciding whether to retake the SAT after scoring a 990 depends on several factors. If your target schools require higher scores, it might be beneficial to aim for improvement. Students often see an increase of 50 to 100 points on their second attempt, which could expand your college options significantly. Improving your SAT score could make reach schools such as Arizona State University or The University of Alabama more attainable. However, it's also important to focus on other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays, to enhance your overall admission profile.

Scholarship Opportunities with a 990 SAT

While a 990 SAT score might not qualify you for the most competitive merit-based scholarships, several opportunities are still available. Many colleges offer scholarships specifically for students whose SAT scores fall within the range of their typical admitted students, which can include those with a 990. Additionally, local community organizations and smaller private scholarships may consider factors beyond SAT scores, such as leadership qualities, community service, and personal achievements. It's crucial to research and apply for scholarships that align with your strengths and interests to maximize your chances of receiving financial aid.

Exploring Your Options

If you have a 990 SAT score, you have access to a wide range of colleges that could be the perfect fit for you. The full list of 487 popular colleges where a 990 SAT score is within the typical range of accepted students is available below this introduction. Schools like Texas State University, San Francisco State University, Grand Valley State University, California State University Los Angeles, and California State University Sacramento are among the public institutions you might consider. Private universities such as Clark Atlanta University, Hampton University, Azusa Pacific University, Wingate University, and the Culinary Institute of America also welcome students with a 990 SAT score. Remember, your college journey is unique, and finding the right fit is more important than merely focusing on numbers.