If you scored 1350 on the SAT, first off, congrats! That’s a solid score and puts you ahead of most test-takers. It shows you’ve worked hard and have some serious academic skills. But you’re probably wondering, “Is a 1350 SAT score good enough for the colleges I aim for?” The answer depends on the schools on your list and how competitive their admissions are.
Think about the colleges you’re excited about. A 1350 might be perfect for some schools, while others might have higher averages. Retaking the test could be worth it if your dream school’s average is closer to 1500. But if you’re happy with where you stand, focus on making the rest of your application like essays and activities shine!
- How Good Is a 1350 SAT Score?
- Colleges You Can Get into with a 1350 SAT Score
- Should You Retake the SAT?
- How to Improve Your SAT Score
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
How Good Is a 1350 SAT Score?
A 1350 SAT score is an excellent achievement! It places you in the 90th percentile, meaning you outperformed 90% of students who took the test. That’s a major accomplishment and shows colleges you’re prepared for challenging academic work. If you’re applying to state universities, mid-tier colleges, or even more selective schools, this score can make you a competitive applicant.
The story changes a bit when it comes to top-tier schools like Ivy League colleges. Many of these institutions have median SAT scores well above 1350, often in the 1500+ range. While your score is strong, you might need to aim higher if schools like Harvard or Yale are on your list.
Here’s a quick look at the SAT score ranges for Ivy League schools to give you an idea of how competitive they are:
| 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 |
For schools outside of the Ivy League or similarly competitive institutions, your 1350 can make you a standout applicant. Colleges often value a strong score like this, paired with your unique story, extracurriculars, and essays. Use your score to highlight your strengths and show admissions committees why you’re a great fit for their school!
Colleges You Can Get into with a 1350 SAT Score
A 1350 SAT score places you in a competitive position at various well-regarded colleges across the United States. If you’re aiming for a prestigious public university, a vibrant campus life, or a unique educational experience, there are plenty of options to consider.
Below are some top schools that align with your score range, each offering distinct opportunities for personal and academic growth:
1. University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Acceptance rate: 8.8%
SAT range: 1290–1510
UCLA is an excellent choice if you’re seeking top-tier academics and a vibrant campus life. The school’s location in Los Angeles offers access to the entertainment, tech, and startup industries, making it perfect for networking and landing internships in these fields.
If you’re interested in the arts, UCLA’s School of Theater, Film, and Television offers great opportunities. For business, the Anderson School of Management is a top-tier option. UCLA fosters leadership and innovation, making it ideal for students ready to make an impact.
As a leading public university, UCLA excels in research. Students collaborate on groundbreaking projects alongside world-class faculty. With its wide range of opportunities, UCLA is the perfect place for students like you who want to push the boundaries of their education.
2. Michigan State University (MSU)
Acceptance rate: 84%
SAT range: 1150–1350
Michigan State University offers excellent opportunities for students interested in business, agriculture, or international relations. The university’s academic programs are highly respected, with standout offerings like the Eli Broad College of Business attracting students eager to make a mark in their careers.
MSU also boasts a lively campus life featuring hundreds of student organizations and activities. There’s something for everyone, from sports and arts to various other hobbies. The campus in East Lansing is full of energy, with a social scene that matches the academic environment.
One of the highlights of MSU is its massive alumni network, offering valuable connections that can last long after graduation. MSU might be the perfect fit if you’re looking for a school that blends strong academics with a dynamic social scene.
3. Berea College
Acceptance rate: 33%
SAT range: 1156–1335
Berea College stands out for its unique tuition-free model, allowing students to graduate debt-free. Berea combines liberal arts with a work-study program, requiring students to work at least 10 hours per week while pursuing their degree. This provides valuable real-world experience and sets students up for success after graduation.
The college is committed to personal growth and community service, fostering an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. Berea’s inclusive and diverse campus makes it a great choice for students like you seeking to engage in meaningful work while earning their degrees.
Suppose you’re seeking a school that values accessibility and community. In that case, Berea College offers a combination of financial support and opportunities for personal development, making it an excellent place to grow and succeed.
4. University of Oregon
Acceptance rate: 86%
SAT range: 1150–1340
The University of Oregon is a top choice for students interested in creative fields like journalism or architecture. UO’s School of Journalism and Communication is known for producing successful media professionals, with students working on real-world projects like the Oregon News Lab and collaborating with local media outlets to create content.
If you’re passionate about architecture, UO offers a renowned program focused on community-based design projects. These hands-on experiences allow students like you to impact the local environment while preparing for architecture or urban planning careers.
Eugene, Oregon, is a laid-back college town prioritizing sustainability and community. The Sustainable City Year Program allows students to tackle real-world environmental challenges, contributing to a greener future. With its focus on sustainability and strong academics, UO is a great place for you to grow academically and personally.
Should You Retake the SAT?
Deciding if you should retake the SAT depends on your goals and the schools you’re aiming for. If your dream schools typically have average SAT scores around 1450 or 1500, retaking the exam could help boost your chances of getting in. But it might not be necessary if your score is already close to or above the average for your target schools.
Don’t forget about scholarships! A higher SAT score could open the door to more merit-based scholarship opportunities. If you’re eyeing some sweet financial aid, a higher score can give you an edge. And if you’re feeling confident that with a little extra prep, you can hit that next level, it might be worth going for the retake.
If you’re happy with your score and it’s a good fit for the schools you want to attend, then there’s no pressure to retake it. Many schools are also test-optional, meaning you don’t have to submit an SAT score if you don’t want to. Ultimately, it’s all about what makes you feel the most confident in your application!
How to Improve Your SAT Score
If you’re aiming to boost your score, focused preparation is key. Here’s how to maximize your study efforts:
1. Review your score report.
To start improving your SAT score, the first thing you should do is review your score report. This will help you pinpoint your weak areas and focus your efforts where needed. Are you struggling with math, reading comprehension, or time management? Understanding where you need improvement is key to creating an effective study plan.
Once you’ve identified your weak spots, devote more time to those specific areas. For example, if algebra is your biggest challenge, dedicate extra study time to practice problems and review key concepts. The more targeted your prep is, the better your results will be on your next SAT.
2. Use official SAT prep materials.
When you start preparing for the SAT, it’s important to use official materials. The College Board offers practice tests that simulate the exam, giving you a realistic test day experience. Resources like Khan Academy also provide personalized practice based on your strengths and weaknesses.
These materials help you understand the test format and the types of questions you’ll encounter. They allow you to practice under timed conditions and track your progress, so you’re not caught off guard by the format when you sit for the real test.
3. Take full-length practice tests.
One of the best ways to prepare for the SAT is by taking full-length practice tests. This will help you build endurance for the exam and get used to the timing pressure. By practicing with full-length tests, you’ll also be able to identify any sections where you’re still struggling.
Make sure to take these practice tests regularly, not just once. Doing so will help you pace yourself and handle the time constraints better. Each time you take a practice test, you can adjust your strategies and improve your weaknesses.
4. Work on your vocabulary.
A strong vocabulary can help boost your SAT scores, especially in the reading and writing sections. Learning new words and practicing them in sentences will help you understand the reading passages more easily. You’ll also be able to answer vocabulary-based questions with more confidence.
To improve your vocabulary, try learning a few new words each day. You can use apps and flashcards or read more diverse materials. The more you expand your vocabulary, the easier it will be to tackle reading comprehension and writing questions on the SAT.
5. Consider a tutor.
If you need more personalized help, working with a tutor could be a great option. A tutor can focus on your specific areas of difficulty and provide strategies that work best for your learning style. A tutor can help clarify tough concepts and assist with test-taking strategies, providing the guidance you need to improve.
A tutor can help you stay on track and motivated throughout your prep. Extra support can make a big difference, especially if you aim for a specific score. With the right help, you’ll feel more confident and better prepared for test day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does a 1350 SAT score mean for my college applications?
A 1350 SAT score places you in a competitive position for many colleges and universities. It’s a solid score that puts you ahead of most test-takers, but the significance depends on the schools you’re applying to. Some colleges may view it as a strong score, while others, especially more selective ones, may expect higher scores.
2. Can I get into Ivy League schools with a 1350 SAT score?
While 1350 is a great score, it might not be enough for Ivy League schools. These schools typically have median SAT scores in the 1500+ range. However, your score can still be a positive factor if paired with strong extracurriculars, essays, and other aspects of your application.
3. Should I retake the SAT with a 1350 score?
Retaking the SAT might be worth considering if you’re aiming for highly selective schools with higher SAT score averages. However, if you’re happy with your score and it meets the requirements for your desired schools, there’s no need to retake it. Many colleges are also test-optional, so it’s something to weigh based on your preferences.
4. What’s the equivalent of a 1350 SAT score on the ACT?
A 1350 SAT score is equivalent to an ACT score of 29. This is considered a strong score for many colleges, putting you in a competitive position for admissions. If you’re considering taking the ACT, a score in this range should help you stand out from various schools.
5. How can I improve my SAT score from a 1350?
To improve your SAT score, focus on targeted preparation. By reviewing your score report, identify your weak areas and dedicate more study time to those topics. Using official SAT prep materials, taking practice tests, expanding your vocabulary, and considering a tutor can also help boost your score.
Takeaways
- A 1350 SAT score is a strong achievement, placing you in the top 10% of test-takers and making you a competitive applicant for many colleges.
- While this score is solid for state universities, mid-tier schools, and some selective colleges, it might not be high enough for top-tier schools like Ivy League institutions, where scores typically range in the 1500+ range.
- If your dream schools have higher score averages, retaking the SAT could be beneficial, but if you’re happy with your score and it fits your target schools, you can focus on other parts of your application, like your essays and extracurriculars.
- Use SAT prep tools like official practice tests, Khan Academy, and vocabulary-building strategies to improve your score.
- For personalized help and guidance to improve your SAT score, check out AdmissionSight’s Private Consulting Program to develop a tailored strategy for your college application journey.
