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A 1220 SAT score may not be Ivy League material, but it’s absolutely a good score for a wide range of solid colleges. This score places you above the national average and puts you in range for dozens of reputable colleges. But how “good” it is really depends on your goals and what the rest of your application looks like.
What Does a 1220 SAT Score Mean?
A 1220 places you in approximately the 78th percentile. That means your score is higher than nearly 4 out of 5 students nationwide.
Is 1220 Considered a Good Score for College Admissions?
Yes. A 1220 is well above the national average and falls within the accepted range for many popular universities. It’s strong enough to:
- Get you into most mid-tier public universities
- Be considered competitive at many test-optional private schools
- Qualify you for certain merit scholarships, especially when paired with a strong GPA
Does a 1220 Open the Door to Selective Colleges?
No. Highly selective schools like UCLA typically report SAT middle ranges in the 1300-1500 zone. With a 1220, those are probably out of reach unless you’re applying under unique circumstances (like athletic recruitment or a major hook).
That said, some competitive programs may still consider you, especially if you’ve:
- Maintained a strong upward GPA trend,
- Shown leadership or community impact,
- Written a compelling essay that frames your academic journey.
Which Colleges Commonly Accept a 1220 SAT Score?
Many reputable colleges list a 1220 right within or slightly below their middle 50% SAT range.
| College | SAT Mid-Range | Notes |
| University of Oregon | 1100-1310 | 1220 is right in the middle |
| Texas State University | 1010-1180 | You’re above average |
| San Diego State University | 1130-1360 | Competitive fit |
| Temple University (PA) | 1110-1330 | 1220 is a strong match |
| University of Alabama–Huntsville | 1170-1320 | In range and merit-eligible |
| DePaul University | Test-optional | 1220 is considered competitive if submitted |
Should You Retake the SAT After Scoring 1220?
It depends on what you’re aiming for. You should consider retaking the SAT if:
- Your target schools expect 1300+
- Your score is unbalanced (e.g., 620 Reading, 490 Math)
- You didn’t prepare seriously the first time
- You’re close to qualifying for a scholarship bump
What Scholarships Might Be Available at This Score Level?
Many schools offer automatic merit-based scholarships for students with SAT scores starting at 1200, particularly if paired with a 3.5+ GPA.
Examples:
- University of Alabama–Huntsville
- University of South Carolina
- West Virginia University
- Georgia Southern University
You can also look at outside scholarships like those listed on Going Merry or Scholarships.com for opportunities that don’t depend heavily on your score.
How to Improve on a 1220 SAT Score?
Legacy Online School helps students build the confidence and skills they need to succeed on the SAT® and ACT®. All lessons are delivered live online, with real-time support and feedback from qualified instructors who are fully invested in your progress. If you’re serious about improving your score, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re aiming for 1300+, small changes in study habits can go a long way. Here’s how to move the needle:
- Use the Bluebook App from College Board
- Link your scores to Khan Academy for personalized practice plans
- Keep a notebook of error types—traps? vocabulary?
- Even a 50-70 point boost can change your admissions outlook
“I wanted to share my study methods on how I achieved a 300 point increase from a 1220 to a 1520. I’ve broken it up by sections and have included some resources that helped me”
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Top Tips from Our Expert
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Alyssa Mendoza, AP Coordinator and College Prep Specialist
Sources: College Board, Going Merry, Scholarships, Reddit
