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High school students consider the SAT to be a crucial checkpoint for their path toward college enrollment. The 400 to 1600 point scoring scale of the SAT produces varied effects on student placement in percentiles and their future college admission and scholarship chances when a student scores 1390.
This article explores the details about scoring 1390 on the SAT and evaluates its standing compared to average scores as well as its influence on college admission opportunities and when students should consider taking the SAT again.
What is the Percentile for a 1390 SAT Score?
Understanding the 1390 SAT Score Percentile
Students who score 1390 on the SAT demonstrate strong academic performance according to common perception.
Statistical data from College Board as of 2024-2025 shows that students who earn a 1390 on the SAT will be in the top 93% of all test-takers. Out of all SAT test-takers only 7% manage to score better than 1390 points.
Students who earn this score typically stand above most test-takers because they demonstrate strong understanding of the topics tested in the assessment.
How Does a 1390 Compare to Average SAT Scores?
The national student SAT average ranges between 1050-1100 according to the yearly trends and test population makeup. The 1390 SAT score surpasses typical student median results by a wide margin thus placing the student at an elevated performance level.
The comparison holds great importance because it reveals both the student’s natural abilities and their readiness to handle college-level academic requirements.
Is 1390 SAT Score Considered a Good SAT Score?
Evaluating the 1390 SAT Score in College Admissions
The University of Florida together with the University of Texas at Austin and multiple other educational institutions use 1390 SAT scores as their admissions benchmark.
Students who achieve the SAT score of 1390 stand to improve their admission chances but need strong grades along with extracurricular activities and compelling personal statements.
What Colleges Accept a 1390 SAT Score?
University of Miami together with University of Michigan are among various institutions which accept students with a 1390 SAT score. Students who seek acceptance at numerous state universities and liberal arts colleges should consider these institutions because they typically accept students with scores equal to or lower than 1390 on the SAT.
Here are two types of schools that accept the score of 1390 on SAT.
Safety schools are schools where a score of 1390 is above average and target schools are colleges where a score of 1390 is in the middle of acceptance.
| Safety schools | Target schools |
| University of Arizona | University of Florida (UF) |
| University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) | University of Georgia |
| Louisiana State University (LSU) | University of Wisconsin–Madison |
| University of Oregon | Penn State University – University Park |
| Texas Tech University | Binghamton University (SUNY) |
Legacy Online School would be offering additional insight into what colleges SAT scores can let them get into by taking classes with them.
Is a 1390 SAT Score Enough for Scholarships?
Most merit-based scholarships take SAT test results together with GPA performance and extracurricular activities for evaluation.
Students need to research scholarship opportunities from their future college choices since certain academic institutions grant major financial incentives through scholarships for students ranking above the 93rd percentile.
Should You Retake the SAT if You Score 1390?
When is it Worth it to Retake the SAT?
Students who dream about entering UCLA or similar competitive colleges should take the SAT examination again to elevate their test score thus improving their college admissions opportunities. Students who have reached satisfaction with their 1390 SAT score should evaluate their application strength before making the decision to retake the test.
How to Decide Whether to Retake the SAT?
Students need to examine the following three variables to determine their SAT test strategy:
- College admission averages
- Individual test readiness
- How extracurricular activities and personal statements will influence the decision.
Students who maintain SAT performance at or above the middle 50% scores of their target schools will probably gain minimal benefits from repeating the test. A retake of the SAT exam might benefit applications when the current scores sit close to but below the average SAT scores of accepted students.
Impact of Retaking on Average SAT Scores
The decision to retake the SAT must involve a comprehension of the effects it will have on overall SAT score averages. The majority of SAT retakers achieve better scores in their subsequent sessions because they improve their results.
Transferring to take the exam again does not have a definite positive impact on scores because extra pressure could create additional stress that disrupts performance. Students need to conduct thorough risk assessment while considering their readiness and their colleges’ admission expectations.
How Does a 1390 SAT Score Affect College Admissions?
Understanding the Role of SAT Scores in Admissions
The SAT score of 1390 stands out as significant when students present their complete application file including academic records and reference letters and written materials. The SAT score serves as an admissions factor that differentiates applicants since universities use this data in competitive admissions.
Comparing 1390 SAT Score to Middle 50% Ranges
The evaluation of a 1390 SAT score demands comparing it against the middle 50% ranges of admitted students of different colleges. Most educational institutions show their admitted student SAT scores using middle 50% ranges that correspond to the test results of students between 25th and 75th percentile rankings.
The position of a 1390 SAT score compared to competitive educational institutions’ middle 50% score ranges allows prospective students to better predict admission chances while planning their college admissions approach.
What Are the Implications of a 1390 SAT Score for GPA?
Colleges attempt to find parallel results between SAT results and GPA scores because it demonstrates students maintain a steady academic performance level. Students who achieve good SAT results together with high grades in classes will create stronger academic profiles that colleges will find appealing.
Both college admission officials and students agree that superior SAT scores do not always balance out below-average academic grades. A student requires identical academic achievements in GPA results alongside SAT scores to create a successful college application.
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What Are the Section Scores for a 1390 SAT Score?
Breaking Down the Total Score into Section Scores
The SAT comprises two mandatory sections of Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math together with the optional Essay section. The total SAT score reaches 1390 when scoring across sections is equal while each individual section spans between 200 points and 800 points.
Students usually achieve an EBRW score of about 680 combined with a Math score of roughly 710 with a 1390 SAT score. This section breakdown gives students vital information about their academic skills so they can direct their preparation efforts properly if they want to repeat the SAT examination.
Legacy Online School breaks down more SAT scores and what they mean on their blog.
How Section Scores Impact Overall SAT Performance
Each individual section score determines how educational institutions judge the complete SAT performance of students. The scoring weighting system at different colleges corresponds to their academic program makeup.
The priority of section scores depends upon the academic specialization of the college where applicants wish to enroll.
Interpreting Section Scores for College Readiness
Success in all sections demonstrates that students possess balanced expertise that schools frequently look for in their candidates. Students who earn significantly high scores on a single section often demonstrate such strengths that it directs them to select their major focus or study field.
Students need to assess their section ratings both for understanding their existing academic abilities and developing plans for their future educational progression.
FAQ
Q: Is a 1390 SAT score considered good for college admissions?
A: Yes, a 1390 SAT score is generally considered good, as it places you in the 93rd percentile. This means you scored better than 93% of test-takers, making you a competitive applicant for many universities in the United States.
Q: What is the average score for admitted students at the University of California?
A: The average SAT score for admitted students at the University of California varies by campus, but it typically falls within the middle 50 range, which is often around 1300 to 1500, making a 1390 a solid score for many UC campuses.
Q: How does a 1390 SAT score compare to the 25th percentile of admitted students?
A: A 1390 SAT score is above the 25th percentile of admitted students at most colleges, meaning you have a better chance of being accepted than students who score below this threshold.
Q: Can students with a 1390 SAT score be admitted to Ivy League schools?
A: While a 1390 SAT score is competitive, Ivy League schools typically have higher middle 50 SAT scores for admitted students, often ranging from 1400 to 1600. Therefore, while it is possible to gain admission, a 1390 may put you at a disadvantage compared to other applicants.
Q: How do SAT scores impact my college list and chances of getting admitted?
A: A 1390 SAT score can help you create a balanced college list with a mix of reach, match, and safety schools. It places you in a good position for many public universities, but you may need to strengthen other aspects of your application, such as letters of recommendation and extracurricular activities, to enhance your chances of getting admitted.
Q: What are the benefits of a prep program if I aim for a higher SAT score?
A: A prep program can provide you with structured study materials, practice tests, and strategies to improve your score. If you are aiming to move from a 1390 to a higher percentile score, these programs can help enhance your test-taking skills and increase your overall SAT score.
Q: What does the term “test-optional” mean when applying to colleges?
A: “Test-optional” means that colleges do not require SAT scores for admission. However, submitting a 1390 can still strengthen your application, especially if your scores align with the middle 50 of admitted students at your target schools.
Q: How can I improve my SAT score from 1390 to be more competitive?
A: To improve your SAT score, consider focusing on areas where you scored lower. Utilize study materials, take practice tests, and consider enrolling in a prep program to enhance your skills in specific sections of the SAT. Setting a study schedule and consistently practicing can lead to significant improvements.
Q: What SAT scores do competitive applicants typically achieve?
A: Competitive applicants often score within the middle 50 of admitted students for their chosen colleges, which can range from around 1300 to 1500 or higher, depending on the institution. A 1390 puts you in a good position for many public universities and some private colleges, but for elite institutions, higher scores may be necessary.
