Is 800 a Good SAT Score? Test Insights + Tips

Realistically, 800 isn’t a good SAT score. The score falls well below the national average of 1050 and won’t meet the admissions criteria for most four-year colleges. That said, just taking the SAT is a step in the right direction—and each score report offers an opportunity to learn and improve.

In this blog, we’ll break down what an 800 SAT score really means, whether it’s worth retaking the test, what kinds of colleges might still be within reach, and how to strengthen the rest of your application to stay in the game.

• How Good Is an 800 SAT Score?
• Colleges You Can Get into with an 800 SAT Score
• Should You Retake the SAT?
• How to Improve Your SAT Score
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Good Is an 800 SAT Score?

Scoring an 800 on the SAT puts you around the 16th percentile, meaning most test-takers scored higher. That can definitely feel discouraging—but don’t panic. Your score doesn’t mean college is off the table.

That said, if you’re aiming for highly selective schools—like the Ivy League or top 50 national universities—it’s important to be realistic. These schools typically admit students with SAT scores well over 1400, often closer to 1500+. In those competitive applicant pools, an 800 SAT score likely won’t carry much weight and could be a weak point on your application.

To really understand where your score stands, let’s take a look at the average SAT ranges for Ivy League schools—so you can see how your 800 SAT score compares and start thinking about what steps to take next, whether that’s a retake, building a test-optional list, or strengthening other parts of your application.

So, how does an 800 SAT score stack up? Honestly, when it comes to Ivy League schools, it falls well below the typical range. Most Ivies report middle 50% SAT scores between 1440 and 1580—which means even students on the lower end of their admitted group are scoring nearly double your current score.

With an 800 SAT score, you’re likely closing the door on many top-tier colleges, especially those that still require or strongly consider test scores. If your goal is to keep as many options open as possible, this score might hold you back. In competitive admissions, every piece of your application matters—grades, essays, activities—and yes, your test scores play a role too.

But don’t worry—this doesn’t mean you’re out of the game. You’ve got options: you can explore test-optional schools, plan a retake, or double down on strengthening the other parts of your application. The key is knowing where you stand and deciding what direction makes the most sense for your goals.

Colleges You Can Get into with an 800 SAT Score

While your 800 SAT score is on the lower end and might rule out some highly selective schools, don’t count yourself out just yet—there are still plenty of great colleges out there that look at more than just test scores. If you’re searching for a school where you can grow, feel supported, and truly belong, here are some standout options to consider:

1. Virginia Union University

Acceptance rate: 98%

Average tuition cost: $5,265

SAT range: 750-1010

Virginia Union University (VUU) was founded in 1865 to educate newly emancipated freedmen in a setting rooted in ethics, religion, and support. It remains committed to that mission today. As a historically Black university, VUU values the richness of the African Diaspora while welcoming students of all backgrounds.

VUU offers undergraduate liberal arts programs and graduate degrees in Christian ministries, with a focus on moral values, ethics, and personal growth. Students in fields like humanities, science, business, and theology benefit from a campus culture grounded in excellence, diversity, and service.

2. Central State University

Acceptance rate: 89%

Average tuition cost: $2,707

SAT range: 770-950

Central State University was founded over 135 years ago to provide African Americans access to higher education. Despite challenges—including a major tornado in 1974—it remains a resilient institution and is proud to be an 1890 Land-Grant University.

It grew out of Wilberforce University, the nation’s oldest private HBCU and a key stop on the Underground Railroad. That legacy of education and empowerment continues at Central State, where students are prepared to lead and serve their communities.

CSU’s academic offerings include programs in Accounting, Communication, Visual Arts, Humanities, and Social Work—each designed to equip students with the skills to make a meaningful impact.

3. Gallaudet University

Acceptance rate: 61%

Average tuition cost: $9,144

SAT range: 750-993

Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864 and located in Washington, D.C., is the world’s only university designed specifically for deaf and hard of hearing students. It offers bilingual instruction in American Sign Language (ASL) and English.

Its origins trace back to 1816, when Laurent Clerc and Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet helped establish the first U.S. school for deaf education. The university was later founded through an act of Congress signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

Today, Gallaudet is a global leader in deaf education and advocacy. Top academic programs include deaf studies, interpretation, psychology, and business.

4. Rust College

Acceptance rate: 79%

Average tuition cost: $6,692

SAT range: 440-1339

Rust College, founded in 1866 by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, is Mississippi’s oldest HBCU and one of the oldest still operating in the U.S. It began in a local church under Pastor Samuel Moses, with support from missionaries and African American builders like James Wells, father of Ida B. Wells.

Located in Holly Springs and affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Rust offers a close-knit environment with a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Small class sizes promote strong connections between students and professors.

As a liberal arts institution, Rust has graduated over 20,000 students who have gone on to become leaders in education, law, religion, entertainment, government, and community service.

5. Mid-Atlantic Christian University

Acceptance rate: 63%

Average tuition cost: $22,120 (per year)

SAT range: 760-1160

Consider Mid-Atlantic Christian University (MACU) in North Carolina if you’re seeking a faith-based education with a strong sense of mission. This Christian college focuses on leadership, ministry, and service, offering majors such as biblical studies, counseling, business, and youth & family ministry. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, MACU provides a highly personalized learning experience.

MACU is also committed to making education accessible—97% of its students receive financial aid. Graduates go on to pursue meaningful careers in nonprofits, churches, and schools, supported by a close-knit community and a mission-driven foundation.

Should You Retake the SAT?

So you scored an 800 on the SAT—now you’re probably wondering: Should I retake it? The honest answer? It depends on your goals. An 800 SAT score is on the lower end of the scoring scale, which means it could limit your options if you’re applying to schools that still care a lot about test scores.

But before you rush to register for a retake, let’s talk through your options:

When a retake makes sense

If you’re aiming for colleges that require SAT scores or where test scores are a big part of the decision, then yes—retaking the SAT could be a smart move. Many colleges have middle SAT ranges well above 1000, so raising your score—even by a couple hundred points—could really expand your choices.

You should consider retaking the SAT if:

• You’re applying to schools where a higher score could boost your chances.
• You didn’t study much the first time and believe you could do better with a prep plan.
• You qualify for an SAT fee waiver, so retaking it won’t cost you anything.
• You’re motivated and have time to study before the next test date.

When a retake might not be necessary

The good news? More and more colleges are test-optional or test-blind, meaning an 800 doesn’t have to define your future.

• Test-optional schools let you decide whether to submit your score. If it’s not strong, you can skip it and let your GPA, activities, and essays speak for you. Some top test-optional schools you can consider are Rice University and Carnegie Mellon University.
• Test-blind schools don’t look at test scores at all—even if you send them. They’ll focus completely on your grades, recommendations, personal story, and involvement. UC schools are known for being test-blind.

If your dream schools fall into these categories, retaking the SAT may not be the best use of your time. Instead, you might want to double down on writing a killer personal statement, locking in strong letters of recommendation, or showcasing your passions through your extracurriculars.

Bottomline: an 800 SAT score doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It just means you need to be smart about your next steps. Whether that’s retaking the test or pivoting to a test-optional strategy, the path forward is still wide open.

How to Improve Your SAT Score

So, you scored an 800 on the SAT—and while that’s a start, you probably know there’s major room for improvement. If you’re even considering retaking it, the key is to prep smart, not just hard. Here’s how to boost your score and aim higher with confidence:

1. Start by figuring out what went wrong.

Your score report (or even your practice test results) is like a roadmap—it shows you exactly where things didn’t go as planned. Maybe time ran out, or maybe algebra questions tripped you up. The SAT isn’t just about what you know—it’s also about how well you:

• Stay calm under pressure
• Manage your time
• Follow instructions
• Pick out important info quickly
• Solve problems creatively

Even if you haven’t officially taken the SAT yet, try a full-length practice test through Khan Academy or College Board. It’ll give you the same insights.

2. Figure out how you learn best.

Before diving into prep, take a step back and ask yourself: What kind of learner am I?

• Do you focus better with a tutor or in a group class, or are you more of a solo studier?
• Do visuals like charts and diagrams help things stick, or do you prefer hearing explanations?
• Do you thrive with structure, or do you need flexibility?

Knowing your learning style helps you study in a way that actually works—for you.

3. Set a realistic, strategic goal.

You’re at 800 now, but where do you want to be? If your dream schools are selective, you’ll likely need to aim for at least a 1200–1400 to really expand your options.

• A 1450+ puts you in the top 5%—that’s where many top public and private schools want to see you.
• If you’re gunning for an Ivy, you’ll need to shoot even higher—1500–1550 is the norm for admitted students.

4. Register early for your next test date.

SAT test centers can fill up fast, especially in busy areas. Don’t wait until the last minute—book your spot early so you’re not stuck traveling far or testing at an awkward time.

5. Build a study plan—and stick with it.

Spoiler alert: cramming doesn’t work. Give yourself at least two months to prep steadily:

• Set a weekly schedule—aim for 3-5 study sessions a week.
• Take full-length, timed practice tests every 2–3 weeks to track progress.
• Zero in on your weak spots instead of reviewing everything.

Knowing the SAT format helps too:

• Reading & Writing: 54 questions in 64 minutes (≈1 min/question)
• Math: 44 questions in 70 minutes (≈1.5 min/question)

Pro tip: Take a diagnostic test one month out to measure how far you’ve come.

6. Track your progress—don’t just “hope” it’s working.

Logging study hours isn’t enough. You need to analyze your mistakes:

• Do certain question types always trip you up?
• Are you making silly mistakes when you’re rushed?
• Is there a pattern with your math or reading scores?

Keep a score tracker so you can tweak your prep as needed.

7. Take care of yourself.

You can’t perform your best if your brain’s running on fumes. Prioritize:

• Sleep: Aim for 8–9 hours a night (seriously, rest matters).
• Nutrition: Eat brain foods—think protein, healthy fats, and whole grains.
• Hydration: A dehydrated brain is a slow brain.

8. Focus on progress—not perfection.

No one goes from an 800 to a 1500 overnight. Even the best athletes mess up—it’s all part of the process. Each study session, each practice test—it all adds up. Stay consistent and don’t get discouraged by off days.

9. Retake the SAT—only if it makes sense.

If your next practice test shows a solid improvement, or if you’re aiming for colleges that still care about test scores, then yes—a retake is totally worth it. Just don’t overdo it. Taking the SAT two or three times max is usually enough.

10. Consider getting a tutor.

If you’re really struggling to move the needle on your own, a private tutor can help you focus your time where it matters most. They can break down tricky concepts, teach test-taking strategies, and keep you accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is an 800 SAT score good?

An 800 SAT score is considered low—it’s around the 16th percentile, meaning you scored better than only about 16% of test-takers. Since the SAT is scored out of 1600, an 800 typically won’t meet the admission standards for most 4-year colleges, especially competitive ones.

2. What is the SAT?

The SAT is a standardized test used by many U.S. colleges to assess a student’s readiness for college-level work. It measures skills in reading, writing, and math. While some schools have gone test-optional, a good SAT score can still boost your application, help you qualify for scholarships, or make up for a lower GPA.

3. How many times can you take the SAT?

There’s no official limit! You can take the SAT as many times as you want, though most students take it 2–3 times. Colleges usually look at your highest score or use superscoring (combining your best section scores from multiple tests).

4. What is an 800 SAT to ACT score?

An 800 SAT score is equivalent to a 14 ACT score.

Takeaways

• While an 800 SAT score is on the lower end, it doesn’t mean your college dreams are out of reach. Many schools focus on more than just test scores, especially test-optional and test-blind colleges, where your GPA, extracurriculars, and personal statement carry more weight.
• If your target schools still consider SAT scores, retaking the test with a solid prep plan could improve your chances.
• Some of the schools that accept an 800 SAT score include Virginia Union University, Central State University, and Gallaudet University.
• Want to improve your SAT score to improve your chances of getting into Ivies? Check out our SAT and ACT tutoring services for personalized and expert guidance.