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The 1320 points earned on the SAT creates a substantial turning point during the college admission process for numerous high school students. The placement of a 1320 SAT score along with its effect on college admissions acceptance is essential as standardized admission tests remain essential for colleges to evaluate their applicants.
This article dives into the consequences of getting a 1320 SAT score through an exploration of college applications as well as effective study approaches and extra factors relevant to admissions decisions.
Is a 1320 SAT Score Good for College Admissions?
What Percentile Does a 1320 SAT Score Fall Into?
A SAT score of 1320 places students at the 87th percentile since 87% of the total test takers achieved results below this mark. The 87th percentile position shows that scores at 1320 provide a solid performance standing compared to the rest of SAT test-takers nationwide.
This score provides enough advantage to highschoolers seeking admission to colleges or universities without guaranteeing acceptance in top Ivy League programs. A student’s percentile rating allows them to establish appropriate application goals for college admission and select colleges at their academic level.
Legacy Online School dives into all different scores and what they mean for every student and their plans in the future. Check them out on Legacy’s blog!
How Do Colleges View a 1320 SAT Score?
A 1320 SAT score stands as a commendable achievement in college admissions since it accompanies powerful other student application components. Admissions officers assess SAT scores as part of a holistic review process, considering the following factors:
- GPA
- Extracurricular activities
- Personal essays.
The score of 1320 holds academic significance since it demonstrates a student’s academic readiness. This value carries different admissions weight for colleges based on their admission selectivity. The 1320 score stands as a competitive entry for numerous state colleges alongside particular private institutions though selective universities demand higher scores.
Is a 1320 SAT Score Competitive for Selective Colleges?
The 1320 SAT score position ranks above average but falls short for admission into Harvard and Ivy League institutions that normally set their requirements at minimum 1400 SAT scores and beyond.
Students who excel in GPA performance and extracurricular activities can secure admission into various target schools despite their SAT score standing at 1320. To determine admission chances it is critical for students to check each school’s average SAT scores and position their 1320 score accordingly.
What Colleges Can You Get Into with a 1320 SAT Score?
List of Colleges Accepting a 1320 SAT Score
A large number of educational institutions accept students based on their SAT score of 1320 for admission purposes. The University of Florida and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as well as the University of Wisconsin-Madison make up a selection of these institutions. These educational institutions accept a 1320 SAT score from students who show additional solid parts of their application.
Here is the list of both public and private colleges that accept the score of 1320 listed below.
Public Universities:
- University of Washington – Seattle – WA
Avg SAT: ~1220–1460 - University of Iowa – IA
Avg SAT: ~1130–1340 - University of New Hampshire (UNH) – NH
Avg SAT: ~1110–1320 - University of Oklahoma – OK
Avg SAT: ~1150–1340 - Temple University – PA
Avg SAT: ~1130–1330
Private Universities
- DePaul University – IL
Avg SAT: ~1090–1320 - The Catholic University of America – DC
Avg SAT: ~1130–1330 - University of Dayton – OH
Avg SAT: ~1130–1330 - Gonzaga University – WA
Avg SAT: ~1200–1360 - Hobart and William Smith Colleges – NY
Avg SAT: ~1180–1350
Are There Any Notable Universities for a 1320 SAT Score?
Private universities besides state institutions accept students who achieve 1320 SAT scores in their admissions process. The 1320 SAT score places students in position to pursue admissions at Marquette University and the University of Denver. Many educational institutions review student applications beyond test scores to provide admission opportunities to exceptional candidates with strong writing abilities even when their marks fall under the typical SAT range for admitted students.
How to Research Colleges Based on Your SAT Score?
Here is how students can effectively research colleges based on their SAT score shown below:
- Compile a list of institutions that align with a student’s academic and career aspirations
- Check out resources like CollegeVine to seek assistance in identifying schools that match the score range
- Review each college’s average SAT score
- Consider the following factors: location, size, and available majors
- Attend college fairs and speak with admissions counselors to get a better insight into how the score of 1320 at SAT can fit into the overall admissions process.
Should You Retake the SAT to Improve Your 1320 Score?
When is it Worth Retaking the SAT?
The decision to retake the SAT becomes beneficial when the target schools accept prospective students with higher SAT scores. Students should evaluate the possibility of retaking the test when their actual abilities scored lower than expected due to test anxiety alongside insufficient preparation.
How to Prepare for a Retake of the SAT?
Here is how students can prepare to retake their SAT exam shown below:
- Analyze previous test results to identify areas for improvement
- Utilize SAT practice tests to become familiar with the test format
- Enroll in SAT preparation courses to use online resource that provide structured study plans and/or techniques
- Continue consistent practice and review mistakes.
What Improvement Can Be Expected from a Retake?
According to research students who repeat the SAT usually earn better results as their scores show growth between 50 to 100 points based on their educational preparation activities. A student’s college admissions will be strengthened if he or she will target his or her SAT score at the 1400 range and achieve results accordingly. Once the student improves his or her scores, it will open more opportunities which lead to increased scholarship offerings.
Legacy Online School offers assistance to every student when it comes to SAT/ACT score improvements and SAT/ACT preparation. Every student and every parent can improve their college application chances while taking part in the following SAT and ACT prep!
How to Improve Your SAT Score from 1320?
What Study Techniques Can Help You Raise Your Score?
Create a study schedule that allocates time for each section of the test, focusing on weaker areas. Techniques such as spaced repetition, active recall, and summarizing information can enhance retention of information. Additionally, breaking down complex problems into manageable steps can simplify the study process and improve overall understanding.
Are Practice Tests Effective for Improving Your SAT Score?
The process of taking practice tests stands as an essential instrument to boost results on the SAT exam. Students who practice full-length timed tests develop skills for enduring actual test periods since they learn to handle the time constraints effectively.
The evaluation of answered questions afterwards shows students where they need improvement and what errors they make repeatedly. The consistent inclusion of practice tests within students’ educational plan will result in progressive score enhancements. Legacy Online School explores more strategies for scores improvements, including both SAT and AP classes.
What Resources Are Available for SAT Preparation?
Here are multiple resources from free/low cost to high cost that are available for students listed below.
Best Free & Low-Cost SAT Prep Platforms:
- Khan Academy (Official College Board Partner)
- Completely free
- Personalized practice based on your previous PSAT/SAT scores
- Videos, full-length tests, and practice questions
- College Board
- Official SAT practice tests and materials
- Directly connected to Khan Academy
- Includes sample questions, test-taking tips, and scoring guides
- Magoosh (Blog + YouTube)
- Free blog posts, YouTube videos, and flashcards
- Affordable full online courses (starting at ~$100)
- PrepScholar
- Offers a free diagnostic quiz and blog content
- Paid programs include personalized study plans
Best Paid SAT Prep Platforms:
- Princeton Review
- Live and on-demand classes
- Score guarantees available (e.g., +140 points)
- One of the most comprehensive programs
- Kaplan
- Live, on-demand, and tutoring options
- Partnered with College Board for official test content
- Includes test-taking strategies and practice exams
- UWorld
- Extremely detailed explanations for each question
- Focuses on building understanding through practice
- Great for visual learners and self-studiers
- Varsity Tutors
- Offers live classes, one-on-one tutoring, and free SAT prep tools
- Good mix of flexible formats
- Testive
- Combines AI-powered practice with weekly human coaching
- Ideal for structured independent study
- ArgoPrep
- Budget-friendly SAT video lessons, practice problems, and test strategies
- Good for students who want extra video explanation.
What Other Factors Impact College Admissions Beyond SAT Scores?
How Important are GPA and Extracurricular Activities?
During high school the GPA system shows educators what students have accomplished academically since their first year.
The colleges place great importance on extracurricular activities because these activities help institutions understand a student’s authentic interests along with their leadership development capability. A complete admissions package which includes both school performance records and student organization participation will improve their chances of getting accepted to college.
The Role of College Essays and Letters of Recommendation
The admissions process relies heavily on college essays together with letters of recommendation for supplying personal insights about the student. Strong essays allow candidates to demonstrate their personal traits and history combined with their future goals thus making them distinct from other students with comparable SAT results. The application becomes more powerful through teacher or mentor recommendations which validate both character and academic accomplishments of the applicant.
How Do Scholarships Factor into the Admissions Process?
The admissions process depends on scholarship opportunities because they enable students to decrease college education expenses. Colleges deliver merit scholarships through the combination of SAT results and GPA performance along with complete application assessment.
Using an outstanding SAT score enables students to obtain better scholarship opportunities because of its critical importance in application evaluation. The research of targeted school scholarship possibilities becomes a useful tool to drive SAT score improvement along with application enhancement.
FAQ
Q: What colleges can you get into with a 1320 SAT score?
A: With a 1320 SAT score, you have a good chance of being accepted to a wide range of colleges, including many state universities and some private institutions. Schools where the average accepted students have scores in this range often include regional universities and some selective schools.
Q: What is the college admissions process like for students with a 1320 SAT score?
A: The college admissions process for students with a 1320 SAT score typically involves submitting your test scores along with your high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. While a 1320 is above the national average, it’s important to present a strong academic record and extracurricular involvement to enhance your application.
Q: Are there scholarship opportunities for students who got a 1320 on the SAT?
A: Yes, there are scholarship opportunities available for students who got a 1320 on the SAT. Many colleges offer merit-based scholarships that consider your SAT score alongside other factors, such as GPA and involvement in extracurricular activities.
Q: How can I improve my SAT scores if I currently have a 1320?
A: If you’re aiming to improve your scores from a 1320, consider focusing on your weak areas through targeted study. Utilizing online prep resources, taking practice tests, and possibly enrolling in a test prep course can help you score higher on a retake.
Q: Does a 1320 SAT score provide a better shot at Ivy League admissions?
A: A 1320 SAT score may not provide a competitive edge for Ivy League admissions, as these elite institutions typically look for scores closer to 1550. However, it can still be part of a strong application if combined with exceptional coursework and personal achievements.
Q: What is considered a strong academic record for students with a 1320 SAT score?
A: A strong academic record for students with a 1320 SAT score usually includes a high GPA, challenging coursework such as Advanced Placement (AP) classes, and involvement in extracurricular activities. This combination can help strengthen your application during the college admissions process.
Q: Which colleges have higher acceptance rates for students with a 1320 SAT score?
A: Colleges with higher acceptance rates for students with a 1320 SAT score typically include regional public universities and some private institutions that value a holistic review process. Researching schools that have acceptance rates favorable to your score can help you identify suitable options.
Q: Is the SAT score important if I plan to apply to test-optional schools?
A: While many test-optional schools do not require SAT scores, submitting a 1320 can still enhance your application, especially if other aspects of your profile are weaker. It shows commitment and can help you stand out in the college admissions process.
Q: How do colleges view students who have a 1320 SAT score and are aiming for highly competitive schools?
A: Colleges may view students with a 1320 SAT score as having potential, but they also encourage applicants to improve their scores or present a strong overall application. Highlighting unique experiences, leadership roles, and strong letters of recommendation can help balance the admissions criteria.
