Key takeaways
A 1420 SAT score puts you in a good position for college admissions and merit scholarships, showing strong academic potential. Although it may not be the highest score meeting the minimal standard for Ivy League best schools, it opens doors to many competitive universities and scholarship opportunities.
- A 1420 SAT score places you in the 95th percentile, meaning that you did better than 95% of test-takers nationwide.
- Many selective colleges, such as the University of Michigan and the University of Florida, consider a 1420 competitive, so you get better admission prospects.
- Many universities offer automatic or competitive scholarships for students who has scores in this range, including the University of Alabama and the University of Kentucky.
- Retaking the SAT may not be necessary if you are not targeting top schools. Just focus on strengthening your application instead.
Contents
What Does a 1420 SAT Score Represent?
A 1420 places you around the 95th percentile. That means you scored higher than approximately 95% of students nationwide.
Is a 1420 Enough for Selective College Admissions?
Yes, if you have got a 1420, you can consider the following:
- Emory University: Middle 50% SAT range is 1420-1540
- University of Notre Dame: Middle 50% SAT range is 1410-1550
What Are the Average Score Ranges at Different Colleges?
| College | SAT Middle 50% Range | Admission Outlook with 1420 | Notes |
| Harvard University | 1480-1580 | Below Average | 1420 is below the 25th percentile, exceptional other credentials needed |
| University of Chicago | 1510-1580 | Below Average | 1420 is below range, strong emphasis on holistic review |
| University of Michigan | 1340-1530 | Competitive | 1420 is within range, in-state applicants may have an advantage |
| University of Texas at Austin | 1230-1500 | Competitive | 1420 is above average, automatic admission for top 6% of Texas students |
| Ohio State University | 1250-1440 | Competitive | 1420 is near the upper range, strong GPA enhances prospects |
What are the Colleges that Accept a 1420 SAT Score?
A score of 1420 is a competitive at many selective public and less selective private universities. It puts you at or above the mid level at several schools in the top 50-100 range.
| College | SAT Mid-Range | Notes |
| University of Maryland–College Park | 1330-1510 | 1420 is above the median |
| University of Florida | 1320-1470 | Strong fit |
| Boston University | 1340-1510 | 1420 is solid for most programs |
| University of Wisconsin–Madison | 1280-1460 | 1420 is near the top |
| University of Washington–Seattle | 1220-1450 | 1420 is highly competitive |
| Penn State University–Main Campus | 1200-1410 | You’re above the range |
Should You Retake the SAT After Scoring 1420?
A 1420 is already a very strong actual SAT score, and for most students, a retake won’t be of great difference. But, of course, you can retake it and get a higher SAT score, if:
- Your target schools include Ivy League or top 20 schools, where 1500+ is expected
- You had an unbalanced score breakdown, for example 780 Math, 640 RW
- You’re extremely close to a merit aid threshold: some awards start at 1450+
- You didn’t prepare seriously and know you can improve with focused study and practice tests
Can a 1420 SAT Score Qualify You for Scholarships?
Yes, many universities offer automatic or competitive scholarships for students with SAT scores in this range.
Examples:
- University of Alabama
- University of Kentucky
- University of Mississippi
- University of Texas at Arlington
You can also look at outside scholarships like the ones listed on Going Merry or Scholarships.com for opportunities that don’t depend too much on your score.
How to Strengthen Your Application with a 1420 SAT Score?
We help students build the confidence and skills they need to succeed on the SAT® and ACT®. If you’re serious about improving your score, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
There are several things that can help you strengthen your application with a 1420 SAT score:
- Write a personal statement to the college board that’s specific and honest, skipping clichés
- Ask teachers who’ve seen your academic growth to write letters of recommendation
- Apply for early action or priority deadlines if you can, as it can improve your chances
- If you’re applying test-optional to some colleges, make sure to mention your 1420 SAT score where it can make a strong impact
“Having a 1420 SAT proves that you are capable of rigorous college work. Also, AOs are well aware that SAT medians are inflated compared to their actual class averages”
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Top Tips from Our Expert
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Maya Robinson, AP Program Advisor at Legacy Online School
Sources: College Board, Going Merry, Scholarships, Reddit
