Is 1180 a Good SAT Score? Test Insights + Tips

Got an 1180 on the SAT and wondering if it’s a good score? It’s an important question since it can shape your next steps. A solid score means you can focus on the rest of your application, while a lower one might have you thinking about a retake.

Every year, millions of high school students take the SAT, hoping to boost their chances of getting into their dream schools. Along with the ACT, this test is meant to give admissions officers an idea of how well you’ll handle college-level coursework.

So, is an 1180 a good SAT score? Should you retake the test? What schools can you get into with this score? In this blog, we’ll break it all down and help you decide your next move!

• How Good Is an 1180 SAT Score?
• Colleges You Can Get into with an 1180 SAT Score
• Should You Retake the SAT?
• How to Improve Your SAT Score
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Good Is an 1180 SAT Score?

Scoring an 1180 on the SAT places you in approximately the 74th percentile, meaning you performed better than nearly three-quarters of all test-takers nationwide. That’s a strong accomplishment and puts you above the national average, which is 1050, making your score competitive at a wide range of colleges across the country. But how far can an 1180 SAT score really take you?

The answer depends on the type of schools you’re targeting. At many public universities and moderately selective private colleges, an 1180 SAT score is well within the accepted range and could make you a solid applicant—especially when paired with a strong GPA, extracurriculars, and essays.

However, if you’re aiming for highly selective schools, particularly those in the top 50 rankings or Ivy League, an 1180 SAT score may fall short of the academic benchmark. At these elite institutions, the middle 50% of admitted students tend to score between 1350 and 1550, with Ivy League schools leaning toward the 1450 to 1550 range. In these competitive pools, an 1180 SAT score isn’t necessarily disqualifying, but it likely won’t stand out on its own—other parts of your application would need to shine exceptionally.

It’s also worth noting that what counts as a “good” SAT score is always relative. The average scores for admitted students vary from one college to another, and test-optional policies are becoming more common. So while an 1180 SAT score might not open doors to every top-tier university, it can still be your ticket to many excellent schools—especially if you apply strategically.

To help you understand where your 1180 stands and what options are available, let’s break down how Ivies interpret SAT scores and what your next steps should be:

When you compare an 1180 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 260 to 400 points higher. This means that gaining admission with an 1180 would be extremely rare unless you have outstanding extracurricular achievements, compelling essays, or unique personal circumstances that help set you apart.

That said, an 1180 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 1180 SAT Score

Got an 1180 on the SAT and wondering what colleges you have a good shot at? While this score may not be competitive for Ivy League schools, there are still plenty of excellent colleges where an 1180 SAT score falls within the accepted range.

Let’s take a look at some great schools where you can apply:

1. Penn State University 

Acceptance rate: 54%

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

SAT range: 1160-1370

Penn State 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.

2. 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.

3. 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).

4. 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.

5. 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.

Should You Retake the SAT?

An 1180 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 1180. 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 1180 SAT score 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 1180 SAT score, here are five effective strategies:

1. Identify weak areas and focus your study.

Review your SAT score breakdown to determine which sections need the most improvement. If math is your weakness, spend extra time on algebra and problem-solving. If reading is a challenge, practice comprehension and vocabulary strategies.

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 1180 SAT score good?

An 1180 SAT score is above the national average (typically around 1050) and places you in roughly the 74th percentile of test-takers. While it may not be competitive for top-tier universities, it is a solid score for many mid-tier colleges and universities.

2. What is an 1180 SAT score to ACT?

An 1180 SAT score is equivalent to an ACT composite score of 24.

3. Can I get scholarships with an 1180 SAT score?

Some colleges offer merit-based scholarships for students with an 1180 SAT score, though more competitive scholarships typically start around 1200-1300. It’s always a good idea to check each school’s financial aid policies and apply for additional private scholarships.

Takeaways

• Keep in mind that “good” is relative—what’s considered strong at one school might be average at another. An 1180 is a good SAT score, especially when you consider that it places you in the top quarter of test-takers nationwide.
• However, if you’re aiming for highly selective institutions or Ivy League schools, you may want to consider retaking the test or focusing on other parts of your application to stand out.
• Some of the top schools you can apply to with an 1180 SAT score are Penn State, Arizona State, and San Diego State University.
• Want to nail the SAT? Check out our SAT and ACT tutoring services for personalized and expert guidance.