15 Top Colleges Accepting a SAT Score of 1290
If you scored 1290 on the SAT, you’re likely wondering how you stack up against other students and if it’s strong enough for your college aspirations. So, is a 1290 good? While there’s no single answer because, like you, millions take the SAT each year to boost their chances of reaching their dream schools.
Alongside the ACT, this standardized test aims to give admissions officers a glimpse of how applicants might fare in college-level coursework. A solid score frees you to focus on other application aspects, while a lower one might necessitate a retake. The higher you score, the better your chances of getting into your top choices. Of course, other factors come into play, but admissions officers heavily weigh SAT scores when making acceptance decisions.
Luckily, this guide breaks down your score and percentile, reveals where you’re competitive, and helps you navigate your next steps.
Is 1290 a Good SAT Score?
While a 1290 SAT score is commendable, it might not be sufficient for admission to highly selective colleges. Despite placing you in the 87th percentile nationally, it falls short of the average scores at many top-tier schools.
This doesn’t diminish your achievement of outscoring the majority of test-takers. However, for the most competitive universities, admissions officers prioritize applicants with scores closer to the 1500 mark, reflecting their exceptional academic caliber.
Consider strengthening other aspects of your application, such as extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation, to showcase your holistic strengths and stand out from the crowd.
Colleges Accepting a SAT Score of 1290
While a 1290 SAT score places you above the majority of test-takers, it can significantly limit your options for highly selective universities. These schools, typically with acceptance rates below 20%, prioritize students with exceptional scores. This isn’t to discourage you, but to highlight the potential impact of improving your score.
Aiming for a higher SAT can open doors to prestigious institutions like the top 10 universities and Ivy League schools, such as Harvard, MIT, and Princeton. While many excellent state colleges welcome students with your current score, consider retaking the SAT for a wider range of possibilities.
List of Colleges Accepting a SAT Score of 1290
Colleges on this list have historically welcomed students with 1290 SAT scores, making them potential destinations for your competitive application. However, don’t forget that colleges consider more than just test scores, so a well-rounded profile is key.
| College/University | Average SAT Score Range |
|---|---|
| Florida State University | 1220–1360 |
| Clemson University | 1230–1310 |
| University of Georgia | 1220–1400 |
| Michigan State University | 1110–1320 |
| San Diego State University | 1130–1340 |
| Auburn University | 1240–1370 |
| Ohio State University: Newark Campus | 950–1160 |
| Baylor University | 1170–1360 |
| University of Kentucky | 1080–1280 |
| Purdue University | 1210–1450 |
| University of Hawaii at Manoa | 1080–1290 |
| University of Houston | 1170–1330 |
| Georgia State University | 960–1170 |
| University of California, Davis | 1160–1370 |
| Pepperdine University | 1290–1460 |