Is 1120 a Good SAT Score? Test Insights + Tips

If you received an 1120 SAT score, you’re probably wondering how good it is. Is it strong enough to help you get into your top-choice schools, or should you consider retaking the exam? A solid score means you can shift your focus to other parts of your application, while a lower one might mean you’ll need to hit the books again.

So, is an 1120 a good score? What should you do next? Should you retake the test? And where can you apply with that score? We’ll break it down for you in this blog.

• How Good Is an 1120 SAT Score?
• Colleges You Can Get into with an 1120 SAT Score
• Should You Retake the SAT?
• How to Improve Your SAT Score
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Good Is an 1120 SAT Score?

An 1120 SAT score is a good starting point, but there’s room for improvement if you’re aiming for top-tier schools. While you’re above average compared to most test takers, it may not yet position you as a strong contender for the most competitive colleges.

Scoring 1120 puts you in the 66th percentile, meaning you outperformed about 66% of test takers. While this is commendable, college admissions at elite institutions are highly competitive. Admissions officers prioritize applicants with higher scores, especially at schools like Harvard or Yale, where median SAT scores often exceed 1500.

Here’s a glimpse into the SAT score ranges for Ivy League schools, illustrating their high level of competitiveness:

If you compare an 1120 SAT score to the average scores of admitted students at Ivy League schools, the difference is quite substantial. An 1120 SAT score falls well below the middle 50% range for these institutions—often by around 320 to 460 points. This means that gaining admission with this score would be extremely rare unless you have outstanding extracurriculars, exceptional essays, or unique personal circumstances that set you apart.

That said, an 1120 SAT score can still get you into a good college! Many universities accept students with this score, and an increasing number of schools have test-optional policies, meaning your application can be competitive even without SAT scores.

The key is researching schools where your score aligns with their admissions criteria and focusing on other aspects of your application to strengthen your chances.

Colleges You Can Get into with an 1120 SAT Score

An 1120 SAT score opens up a range of college options in the US. While it might not make you a strong contender for the most selective schools like the Ivies, there are plenty of excellent universities where this score can help you gain admission.

Here are some of the best colleges you can consider with an 1120 SAT score:

1. Arizona State University

Acceptance rate: 90%

Average tuition cost: $11,822 (in-state)

SAT range: 1120-1380

If you’re considering Arizona State University (ASU), you’re in for a campus experience in the heart of Tempe, Arizona. ASU is known for its innovative spirit and commitment to cutting-edge research across disciplines. They offer a wide range of programs, but their sustainability initiatives and business programs stand out.

ASU is also home to the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, a training ground for future media leaders. Notable alumni include CEO of GoDaddy Blake Irving and astronaut Bruce McCandless II.

2. University of Alabama

Acceptance rate: 76%

Average tuition cost: $11,380 (in-state)

SAT range: 1110-1360

If you’re looking for a school that integrates strong academics with powerhouse athletics, the University of Alabama (UA) delivers on both fronts. UA boasts top-notch programs in engineering, business, and law, with their football team bringing home plenty of national championships.

The university’s STEM Path to MBA program is particularly impressive, allowing students to earn both a technical degree and an MBA in just five years. But what really sets Alabama apart is its deep-rooted football culture—game days in Bryant-Denny Stadium are an experience like no other.

Notable alumni include Harper Lee, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of To Kill a Mockingbird, as well as famous athletes like Derrick Henry and Joe Namath.

3. Georgia State University 

Acceptance rate: 52%

Average tuition cost: $4,742 (in-state)

SAT range: 900-1200

If you’re looking for a vibrant, urban college experience, Georgia State University (GSU) might be the perfect fit. Located in the heart of Atlanta, GSU offers strong programs in business, computer science, and healthcare, making it a great choice if you want access to internships and job opportunities in a major metropolitan area.

One of the coolest things about GSU is its commitment to student success—it has been nationally recognized for helping students from all backgrounds graduate at higher rates. You’ll also be studying in a city filled with Fortune 500 companies, music hubs, and cultural landmarks.

Famous alumni? Ludacris, the award-winning rapper and actor, got his start here, along with CNN anchor Robin Meade.

4. Texas State University

Acceptance rate: 89%

Average tuition cost: $12,220 (in-state)

SAT range: 990-1180

At Texas State University, you’ll find the perfect balance of college-town charm and big-school energy. Located in San Marcos, halfway between Austin and San Antonio, Texas State is known for its education, business, and criminal justice programs. If you love the outdoors, you’ll be right at home—the San Marcos River runs through campus, making tubing and kayaking popular activities.

Texas State also boasts one of the largest student populations in Texas, so you’ll never run out of ways to get involved. And here’s a fun fact—President Lyndon B. Johnson is an alum, making Texas State the only Texas university to have produced a U.S. president!

5. Howard University

Acceptance rate: 35%

Average tuition cost: $35,810

SAT range: 1060-1290

As one of the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Howard University has been an institution for Black excellence and leadership for over 150 years.

Known for its strong programs in law, business, and the arts, Howard consistently produces top professionals in a variety of fields. Its School of Communications has trained some of the biggest names in media, while its College of Medicine is a leading force in healthcare education.

What makes Howard truly special is its deep-rooted history in civil rights and social justice, with graduates who have shaped politics, culture, and activism. Notable alumni include Vice President Kamala Harris and author Ta-Nehisi Coates.

Should You Retake the SAT?

An 1120 SAT score is above the national average (typically around 1050), but whether you should retake it depends on the colleges you’re aiming for.

When to retake the SAT

Consider retaking the SAT if your target schools have middle 50% score ranges higher than 1120. Many competitive colleges admit students with SAT scores above 1200 or 1300, so improving your score could increase your chances of acceptance.

If you have enough time to study and focus on improving weaker areas, you might be able to boost your score by 200-300 points, which could make a significant difference in your application. A higher score may also qualify you for merit-based scholarships, as many schools start awarding financial aid to students with scores above 1200 or 1300.

When to skip retaking

If your target schools are test-optional or if an 1120 falls within their average SAT range, you may not need to retake the exam. Many colleges no longer require standardized test scores, allowing you to focus on strengthening other parts of your application—like your GPA, essays, and extracurricular activities—instead.

Also, if you’ve already put in significant effort preparing for the SAT and find that standardized testing isn’t your strength, it might be more beneficial to invest your time elsewhere. Rather than stressing over a retake, you could focus on crafting a standout application through strong personal statements, leadership experiences, and meaningful achievements.

How to Improve Your SAT Score

If you want to improve your 1120 SAT score, here are five effective strategies:

1. Identify weak areas and focus your study.

Instead of spending equal time on every section, analyze your score report to see where you lost the most points. If math is your weaker area, dedicate extra time to mastering algebra and problem-solving. If reading comprehension is holding you back, practice breaking down passages efficiently.

2. Follow a structured study plan.

Set a consistent study schedule and stick to it. Use official SAT practice tests from the College Board and aim to complete at least one full-length test per week. Track your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly.

3. Use high-quality study resources.

Invest in SAT prep books like those from The Princeton Review, Kaplan, or Barron’s. Online platforms like Khan Academy (which partners with the College Board) offer free, customized practice plans based on your previous SAT scores.

4. Improve time management and test-taking strategies.

To prepare effectively for the SAT, it’s important to understand the test’s structure and manage your time wisely. The SAT consists of two main sections: Reading and Writing, and Math. The Reading and Writing section includes 54 questions to be completed in 64 minutes, averaging about 1 minute and 11 seconds per question. The Math section comprises 44 questions over 70 minutes, allowing approximately 1 minute and 35 seconds per question.

Practicing under timed conditions can help you develop a sense of pacing. Focus on quickly eliminating incorrect answer choices using process-of-elimination techniques, and recognize when it’s strategic to skip and return to challenging questions. This approach will help you maximize your performance within the allotted time for each section.

5. Hire a private tutor.

A tutor can provide personalized guidance and help you target your weaknesses more efficiently. They can also teach you test-taking strategies that can maximize your score.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is an 1120 SAT score good?

Whether an 1120 SAT score is considered “good” depends on your target schools. If you’re aiming for highly selective universities—such as Ivy League or top 50 schools—this score may fall short, as those institutions typically admit students with scores in the 1400+ range.

But if you’re looking at state universities, liberal arts colleges, or less selective private schools, an 1120 SAT score can be a strong score that helps your application stand out.

2. What is an 1120 SAT to ACT Score?

An 1120 SAT score is equivalent to an ACT composite score of 22.

3. What sections are on the SAT?

The SAT has two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. Each section is scored on a scale of 200 to 800 points, with a total possible score of 1600.

Takeaways

• Is 1120 a good SAT score? It depends on where you’re aiming. For many colleges, especially regional schools or less selective universities, an 1120 can be a solid score that puts you in a competitive spot.
• But if you’ve got your sights set on more selective or top-tier schools, you’ll likely need to boost your 1120 SAT score to stay in the running.
• Some of the best schools you can apply to with an 1120 SAT score include Arizona State University, University of Alabama, and Georgia State University.
• With some focused prep and a little strategy, you can absolutely raise your score. And remember, your SAT score is just one part of the application. Strong grades, great essays, and extracurriculars can make a big difference too.
• Want to improve your SAT score to up your chances of getting into Ivies? Check out our SAT and ACT tutoring services for personalized and expert guidance.