When you receive your SAT score of 1290, one of your first questions might be whether it is a good SAT score. Understanding how your score aligns with college admissions standards is essential for planning your next steps. This blog will break down what 1290 means, the colleges you might be competitive for, and whether retaking the SAT could improve your chances.
A score of 1290 places you in the 90th percentile nationally and the 85th percentile among college-bound students. While this demonstrates above-average academic ability, it might fall short for highly selective schools or specific scholarships. Leveraging this score effectively can help you navigate your college admissions journey.
- How Good Is a 1290 SAT Score?
- Colleges You Can Get into with a 1290 SAT Score
- Should You Retake the SAT?
- How to Improve Your SAT Score
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
How Good Is a 1290 SAT Score?
A 1290 SAT score demonstrates strong academic performance. Nationally, this score ranks in the 90th percentile, meaning you performed better than 90% of U.S. high school juniors and seniors. This score ranks 85th percentile among the college-bound user group, showcasing your competitiveness among students applying to colleges.
Here’s how it compares:
- National percentile. 90% better than the vast majority of U.S. high school students.
- User group percentile. 85% a strong position among college applicants.
While this score is solid, it may not meet the benchmarks for Ivy League schools or other highly selective institutions. For these, scores closer to or above 1450 are often necessary. However, 1290 can position you as a competitive applicant for mid-tier schools and many public universities.
Here’s a quick look at the Ivies’ SAT ranges:
| School | 25th Percentile SAT Composite | 50th Percentile SAT Composite | 75th Percentile SAT Composite |
| Harvard | 1500 | 1550 | 1580 |
| Yale | 1500 | 1540 | 1560 |
| Princeton | 1510 | 1540 | 1560 |
| Columbia | 1470 | 1495 | 1530 |
| UPenn | 1500 | 1540 | 1570 |
| Brown | 1500 | 1530 | 1560 |
| Cornell | 1470 | 1520 | 1550 |
| Dartmouth | 1440 | 1520 | 1560 |
Colleges You Can Get into with a 1290 SAT Score
With a 1290 SAT score, you’re in a great position to join some fantastic colleges. These schools offer incredible academic programs, vibrant communities, and opportunities to grow and succeed. Let’s dive into why these schools could be perfect for you!
Berea College
SAT Range: 1156–1335
Berea College is truly one of a kind, with its tuition-free model ensuring every student can graduate without debt. The liberal arts school integrates hands-on learning through work-study programs, preparing students for professional success while promoting a sense of community. Students gain real-world skills while thriving in an academically rigorous and supportive environment.
Situated in Berea, Kentucky, the college prioritizes accessibility and personal growth. Its emphasis on service and community development makes it a perfect choice for students seeking a transformative educational experience. Berea College could be the ideal place for you if you’re looking for an affordable yet world-class education.
Michigan State University (MSU)
SAT Range: 1150–1350
Michigan State University is a hub for innovation and academic excellence, especially in agricultural sciences and international relations. Its Eli Broad College of Business and Education is among the best in the nation, attracting students eager to make an impact. MSU offers a variety of programs that prepare students to lead in their respective fields.
Located in East Lansing, the sprawling campus promotes collaboration and connection and offers extensive opportunities for extracurricular involvement. The school’s vast alumni network ensures your success doesn’t stop at graduation. If you’re ready to tackle challenges and build lifelong connections, MSU provides the perfect launching pad for your ambitions.
Pepperdine University
SAT Range: 1250–1450
Pepperdine University combines academic excellence with a strong focus on leadership and service. Located in Malibu, California, the campus inspires students to pursue their goals and create meaningful change. With standout programs in business, law, and liberal arts, Pepperdine shapes students to lead impactful lives.
Beyond grades, Pepperdine seeks students committed to making a difference in their communities. To stand out in your application, highlight your leadership experiences and dedication to service. Pepperdine is a great choice if you’re ready for a school that prepares you for a purposeful future.
Pennsylvania State University (Penn State)
SAT Range: 1220–1400
Penn State offers a dynamic college experience with a strong academic foundation. Known for its exceptional programs in engineering, business, and agricultural sciences, the university equips students to tackle real-world challenges. The vibrant campus atmosphere and state-of-the-art facilities create endless opportunities for involvement and leadership.
Admissions at Penn State focus on well-rounded individuals with a passion for learning and growth. Share how your unique experiences and achievements align with their community values. If you want to join a driven and collaborative community, Penn State is ready.
Baylor University
SAT Range: 1210–1400
Baylor University provides an engaging academic environment grounded in community values and faith-based principles. With exceptional health sciences, business, and pre-med programs, Baylor prepares students to excel in competitive fields. Located in Waco, Texas, the university fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages service and leadership.
The admissions team at Baylor looks for students who shine beyond academics. Use your application to showcase your personal growth, leadership roles, and community contributions. If you’re searching for a school that prioritizes personal and academic excellence, Baylor is the perfect match.
University of Colorado Boulder
SAT Range: 1150–1390
The University of Colorado Boulder is a hub for cutting-edge innovation and outdoor adventure. Renowned for its aerospace engineering, environmental science, and renewable energy programs, CU Boulder empowers students to address global challenges. The university’s research collaborations with NOAA and NCAR provide unmatched opportunities for real-world impact.
The stunning Rocky Mountains offer a perfect setting for personal and academic growth. At CU Boulder, you’ll find a balance between rigorous studies and exciting extracurricular activities. CU Boulder is ideal if you’re drawn to a school that blends exploration with excellence.
Florida State University (FSU)
SAT Range: 1240–1390
Florida State University is a top choice for students passionate about criminology and film. The College of Motion Picture Arts and the highly-ranked criminology program offer world-class resources to help students excel. From crafting Hollywood blockbusters to influencing public policy, FSU equips you with the tools to achieve your goals.
In Tallahassee, FSU offers an engaging campus life with abundant leadership and research opportunities. The combination of rigorous academics and a vibrant social scene ensures a well-rounded experience. If you’re ready to pursue your passions and make your mark, FSU is an excellent choice.
Should You Retake the SAT?
Deciding to retake the SAT depends on your goals and how well your score supports them. Here are some key considerations to help you decide:
When to retake:
- Your target schools have SAT averages above 1290, such as UCLA or the University of Michigan.
- You’re pursuing scholarships that require higher scores.
- Your section scores are unbalanced, with one area needing improvement.
- You have time and resources for focused preparation to meaningfully raise your score.
When to stick with your score:
- Your target colleges’ SAT ranges include or fall below 1290, like Florida State University or Michigan State University.
- Other parts of your application, such as essays and extracurriculars, are strong.
- You’ve retaken the SAT multiple times without significant improvement.
- You might not need to submit your SAT score if your schools are test-optional. Instead, focus on strengthening other aspects of your application, like compelling essays or standout extracurriculars.
If your target schools are test-optional, including your SAT scores in your application might not be necessary. Many colleges now allow applicants to determine whether their scores add value to their profile. This flexibility allows you to decide if your SAT results truly strengthen your application or if you should focus on other components instead.
If your score doesn’t fully reflect your abilities, shifting your efforts to essays, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters can be smart. Highlighting your unique strengths in these areas can make your application stand out and align more closely with what admissions officers prioritize when evaluating candidates.
How to Improve Your SAT Score
Focused preparation can significantly boost your results if you plan to retake the SAT. A clear strategy will help you target weaker areas and build on your strengths. Here are some practical tips to get started on improving your score:
1. Analyze your score report.
Review your score report carefully to identify your weaker areas, such as math, reading, or writing. Understanding where you need improvement allows you to focus your efforts where it matters most. A targeted approach ensures you address the sections that can lead to the biggest score boost.
2. Use official SAT resources.
Take advantage of free, reliable resources like those provided by Khan Academy and the College Board. These tools include practice questions and full tests designed to align with the SAT. These materials can help you refine your skills and gain familiarity with the test format.
3. Take full-length practice tests.
Practice taking full-length, timed tests to simulate real exam conditions. This will improve your pacing, build your test-day stamina, and help you feel more comfortable with the overall structure. Reviewing your performance afterward allows you to identify patterns in your mistakes and adjust your preparation accordingly.
4. Work with a tutor.
Consider working with a tutor who can provide expert guidance tailored to your needs. Tutors can help clarify challenging concepts, teach effective strategies, and keep you accountable. Their personalized approach can give you the support needed to make meaningful improvements.
5. Expand your vocabulary.
Improving your vocabulary can significantly boost your performance in the reading and writing sections. Focus on SAT-specific word lists, which include terms frequently tested on the exam. Incorporating these words into your practice can help you feel more confident tackling challenging questions.
6. Stick to a study schedule.
Establishing a consistent study schedule is critical for effective preparation. Set aside time for focused practice weekly, ensuring you balance study sessions with breaks to avoid burnout. A steady, disciplined approach will help you stay on track and make noticeable progress before test day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a 1290 SAT score good?
A 1290 SAT score places you in the 90th percentile nationally, demonstrating strong academic ability. This makes you competitive for many colleges, especially mid-tier and public universities. It’s a solid score that shows your readiness for college-level coursework.
2. What percentile is a 1290 SAT score?
A 1290 SAT score ranks in the 90th percentile nationally and 85th percentile among college-bound students. These rankings highlight your above-average performance compared to other test-takers. It positions you well for many competitive schools.
3. How does a 1290 SAT score convert to the ACT?
A 1290 SAT score approximately translates to a 27 ACT composite score. This reflects a strong academic performance recognized by most colleges and universities. It keeps you competitive across institutions that accept either score.
4. Can you combine SAT scores?
Many colleges allow “superscoring,” which combines your best section scores from multiple SAT attempts. This policy can help boost your overall score if you perform better in different sections on separate tests. Check your target school’s admissions policies to confirm their super-scoring approach.
5. What is the highest possible SAT score?
The highest possible SAT score is 1600, representing a perfect score. While 1290 is a strong result, there’s room to improve if you aim for elite schools or top scholarships. Raising your score closer to the maximum can open more opportunities.
Takeaways
- A 1290 SAT score places you in the 90th percentile nationally and 85th percentile among college applicants, reflecting strong academic ability.
- Retaking the SAT may be beneficial if you target competitive schools or scholarships requiring higher scores.
- Your score is competitive for many mid-tier and public universities but may fall short for highly selective institutions.
- Balancing your SAT score with strong essays, recommendation letters, and extracurriculars can enhance your overall application.
- Still have questions about your 1290 SAT score? Explore AdmissionSight’s Private Consulting Program for tailored strategies to strengthen your application.
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