The SAT tests proficiency in mathematics, reading, and writing with a scoring scale of 400 to 1600, with 1600 being the highest available score. With the average composite score of 2.2 million test takers each year clocking in between 1050 and 1100, a 900 falls shy of that national average.
Is A 900 SAT Score (23rd Percentile) Good?
Assessing scores as “good” or “bad” is objective: the goal is to give yourself a variety of college options and/or make you a competitive candidate at your ideal college. A 900 means you can apply to a bit more than a handful of schools, but the vast majority of colleges will want to see a higher score.
Looking at this from a percentile angle, over 2.2 million students take the SAT each year with the average student earning about an 1150 to a 1100, equalling a percentage of 50. This means that earning a 1150 means you did better than 50% of test takers. With an SAT score of 900, you only did better than 23% of test takers.
What Colleges Can I Get Into With an SAT Score of 900?
A limited number of colleges and universities will consider an application with an SAT score of 900. We’ve put together a list of these schools below. Keep in mind that an SAT score by itself does not guarantee admission, but all of these colleges have a history of admitting students with a 900.
Should I Retake the SAT with a 900 Score?
In order to generate more college options, the best course of action is to retake the SAT and see if you can land in that national average range of 1050-1100. Even raising your score by 50 to 100 points would really open up some options — to do that, you only have to answer 4 or 8 more questions correctly, respectively!
For juniors, the College Board recommends six to eight weeks of practice time to adequately prepare for another exam. In order to be ready for the retake, utilize as many SAT practice resources as possible, including books of sample SAT exams, as well as the free official SAT practice site.
When taking a practice test, use a timer in order to get accustomed to the time constraints on each section of the exam. Practice budgeting your time and the art of skipping questions, especially if they’re taking you longer than 90 seconds to figure out. Keep track of every question that feels especially difficult. This will provide an indication of which subject areas will require more study time when preparing for the retake.
If you’re in your senior year and there isn’t enough time to retake the exam, there are several routes you can take that still have you enrolling in college come fall. Since there are institutions that do accept a 900 SAT, take a look at the list and see if any pique your interest.
The second option is to consider test optional institutions, which don’t require standardized test scores of any kind—they rely on your GPA, your personal statement, recommendations, and possibly even an interview. The third option is to consider attending a 2-year or community college before transferring to earn your baccalaureate. Since most 2-year institutions practice open enrollment, you won’t have to worry about your SAT score at all.
900 SAT to ACT Equivalent
A 900 SAT score is equivalent to a 17 on the ACT. Keep in mind that there are key differences in the SAT and ACT, including time constraints, tools, and even content. If the SAT doesn’t seem to work well with your test taking style, it may be worthwhile to take a practice ACT to see if you’re more suited for that style of standardized test.
Scholarships for a 900 SAT Score
When it comes to earning scholarships for merit, a 900 isn’t likely to make you eligible for most merit scholarships. There are tons of types of scholarships, though, including ones for extracurricular activities, life circ*mstances, and passions. Start applying to scholarships today by searching our extensive database here at Cappex!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 900 a good SAT score?
A “good” SAT score is one that makes you a competitive candidate at a majority of colleges, including your ideal college. A 900 doesn’t give you as many college options as we’d normally like students to have, so raising your score closer to that national average (1150-1100) is encouraged.
What colleges can I get into with a 900 SAT score?
While you can’t apply to the majority of colleges with a 900 SAT, you’re able to be a competitive candidate at a handful, including Wesley College in Delaware, Northeastern Illinois University, and Southern Vermont College.
Your Target schools should all have (roughly) an average accepted SAT score between 875 and 915. Likely schools will fall between 830 and 875, while Reach schools occupy between 915 and 950.
What percentile is a 900 SAT score?
A 900 SAT score is a percentile of 23, meaning you scored higher than 23% of all test takers.
What is the ACT equivalent of a 900 SAT score?
A 900 SAT score is equivalent to a score of 17 on the ACT.
What scholarships can you get with a 900 SAT score?
You’re unlikely to earn merit aid for an SAT score of 900, but there are plenty of other types of scholarships. Search our extensive database for scholarships relating to your extracurricular activities, life circ*mstances, and more. You’ll want to build up a nest egg to offset the cost of college tuition!
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