Is 1170 a Good SAT Score? Test Insights + Tips

If you’ve received an 1170 SAT score, you’re probably wondering if it is good enough. Why does it matter? Every year, millions of high schoolers tackle the SAT, aiming to boost their chances of landing that dream school spot. Alongside the ACT, this test aims to give colleges a sense of how you might handle their coursework. The higher it is, the better shot you have at nailing those dream schools.

Sure, there are other factors in play, but admissions really weigh SAT scores when sizing up applicants. In this blog, we’ll dive into whether a 1170 SAT score is solid, what steps to take next, if a retake is needed, and where to aim those results.

• How Good Is an 1170 SAT Score?
• Colleges You Can Get into with an 1170 SAT Score
• Should You Retake the SAT?
• How to Improve Your SAT Score
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Good Is an 1170 SAT Score?

Having an 1170 SAT score places you in roughly the 73rd percentile, meaning you outperformed 73% of test-takers. That’s a solid achievement! You’re above the national average (1050), and for many colleges, this score is considered competitive. However, if you’re aiming for highly selective schools, an 1170 SAT score might not be enough to make your application stand out.

Why does an 1170 SAT score work well for some colleges but fall short at others? Well, more competitive institutions—especially those ranked in the top 50 or Ivy League category—typically admit students with much higher SAT scores. In those applicant pools, where the average SAT score often falls well above 1400+, an 1170 may not carry as much weight in boosting your chances.

Every year, the definition of a “good” SAT score shifts, especially as more students aim for top-tier universities. To help you figure out what this means for you, let’s take a closer look at the usual SAT scores of Ivy League students:

When you compare an 1170 SAT score to the average scores of admitted students at Ivy League schools, the difference is quite noticeable. Most Ivy League institutions have middle 50% SAT ranges that are 300 or more points higher. This means that gaining admission with an 1170 would be extremely rare unless you have outstanding extracurricular achievements, compelling essays, or unique personal circumstances that help set you apart.

That said, an 1170 SAT score can still get you into many great colleges! Plenty of schools accept students with this score, and many have test-optional policies, meaning you can focus on strengthening other parts of your application if your SAT score isn’t as competitive as you’d like.

Colleges You Can Get into with an 1170 SAT Score

Scored an 1170 SAT score and was wondering what colleges are within reach? While this score might not be competitive for Ivy League schools, there are still plenty of great colleges where an 1170 SAT score falls within the typical accepted range.

Let’s explore some strong schools where your score can work in your favor!

1. Elon University

Acceptance rate: 67%

Average tuition cost: $48,216

SAT range: 1143-1305

Elon University, located in North Carolina, has built a strong reputation for its student-centered, hands-on learning approach. Elon is particularly known for its communications, business, and performing arts programs. The School of Communications is a standout, producing successful journalists, filmmakers, and media professionals.

A defining characteristic of Elon is its Experiential Learning Requirement (ELR), which encourages students to engage in internships, global study, undergraduate research, and service-learning. Elon’s global study programs are among the most extensive in the country, with over 80% of students studying abroad.

Notable alumni include Deborah Ayorinde (actress), Wes Durham (sports broadcaster), and Rich Blomquist (Emmy-winning writer for The Daily Show).

2. Penn State University

Acceptance rate: 54%

Average tuition cost: $20,644 (in-state)

SAT range: 1160-1370

Penn State University is massive—we’re talking 7,958 acres of campus, making it one of the largest universities in the U.S. With its strong engineering, business, and liberal arts programs, it’s no surprise that PSU alumni have gone on to lead Fortune 500 companies and shape industries worldwide.

Plus, if school spirit is important to you, Penn State’s football culture and its legendary THON Dance Marathon (the largest student-run philanthropy in the world!) will make you feel right at home.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. San Diego State University

Acceptance rate: 34%

Average tuition cost: $9,180 (in-state)

SAT range: 1130-1350

San Diego State University offers top-tier programs in hospitality and tourism management, psychology, and aerospace engineering. The university is particularly known for its entrepreneurial focus, with the Lavin Entrepreneurship Center supporting student startups. Situated in the heart of San Diego, SDSU provides an unbeatable combination of academic excellence and beachside living.

One of its most unique features is the SDSU Mission Valley project, a large-scale campus expansion aimed at boosting innovation and economic growth in the region. Notable alumni include Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space, and Marshall Faulk, a Hall of Fame NFL running back.

Should You Retake the SAT?

An 1170 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 1170. 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 1170 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

Wondering how to boost your 1170 SAT score? Here are our best strategies to help you out:

1. Identify your weak areas and focus on them.

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. Take official SAT practice tests under timed conditions.

One of the best ways to prepare is to simulate the real test. The SAT is 2 hours and 14 minutes long and consists of 98 questions, giving you about 1 minute and 22 seconds per question on average.

The College Board’s official practice tests replicate the actual SAT experience. Taking full-length, timed tests helps improve your pacing, reduce anxiety, and expose you to the types of questions that will appear on test day.

3. Master test-taking strategies.

Sometimes, improving your SAT score isn’t just about knowing the material—it’s about knowing the test. Learn strategies like eliminating wrong answers, skimming passages strategically, and managing time wisely so you don’t run out of time on tough questions.

4. Increase your daily exposure to reading and math.

A great way to improve naturally is to engage with challenging reading material and apply math in everyday life. Read The New York Times, The Atlantic, or scientific articles to boost comprehension skills. For math, use apps like Khan Academy or try solving real-world problems to reinforce concepts.

5. Hire a private SAT tutor.

Working with a private SAT tutor can give you a personalized study plan tailored to your strengths and weaknesses. At AdmissionSight, we provide proven test-taking strategies, targeted practice, and real-time feedback, helping you improve faster than studying alone. Check out our SAT and ACT tutoring service for personalized guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is an 1170 SAT score good?

Whether an 1170 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 1170 can be a strong score that helps your application stand out.

2. What is an 1170 SAT to ACT Score?

An 1170 SAT score is equivalent to an ACT composite score of 24.

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.

4. Can I get into Ivy League schools with an 1170 SAT Score?

With an 1170 SAT score, getting into an Ivy League school will be extremely difficult. Ivy League schools typically have middle 50% SAT ranges well above 1350, often in the 1450–1550 range.

5. What is the average SAT score in the US?

The average SAT score would be around 1050.

Takeaways

• An 1170 SAT score is a respectable achievement, placing you above the national average and making you a competitive applicant for many colleges.
• While an 1170 SAT score may not be high enough for top-tier universities, it can still open doors to great schools—especially when paired with a strong GPA, extracurriculars, and compelling essays.
• Some schools you can apply to with an 1170 SAT score include Penn State University, Arizona State University, and San Diego State University.
• Need more guidance? A college admissions expert can help you develop the best strategies to tackle the SAT and increase your chances of getting into your dream school.