Key takeaways
A 1020 SAT score is an average score that can provide access to many colleges, especially when complemented by a strong GPA and application. While it may not be sufficient for highly selective institutions, it keeps options open for numerous accredited universities across the U.S.
- A 1020 SAT score places you in the 43rd percentile, meaning you scored higher than nearly half of all test-takers (College Board).
- Many public universities and less selective private colleges accept a 1020, particularly if other application components are strong.
- Schools like Eastern Washington University and Missouri Western State University have mid-range SAT scores that include 1020, indicating competitiveness (2023 data).
- Consider retaking the SAT if your target schools expect scores above 1150 or if you faced challenges during your initial test.
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Getting a 1020 on the SAT can leave you feeling uncertain—it’s neither high enough for top-tier colleges nor too low for many solid universities. A 1020 SAT score is right around average and opens up real opportunities, especially when paired with a strong GPA and thoughtful application.
What Does a 1020 SAT Score Mean for College Admissions?
It places you in about the 43rd percentile, which means you scored higher than nearly half of all test-takers across the country. While that might not open doors to highly selective schools, it absolutely keeps you in the game for hundreds of accredited colleges across the U.S.
Which Colleges Accept Students with a 1020 SAT Score?
Many public universities and less selective private colleges welcome students with 1020 scores—especially when other parts of the application shine. Here are some examples:
| College | SAT Mid-Range | Notes |
| Eastern Washington University | 950-1140 | 1020 is in the middle |
| Missouri Western State University | 980-1130 | You’re competitive |
| University of Michigan–Flint | 980-1160 | 1020 is a match |
| South Carolina State University | 970-1120 | You’re comfortably in range |
| California State University–San Bernardino | 960-1130 | A good fit |
How Competitive Is a 1020 for Public and Private Schools?
Here’s how a 1020 stacks up across different types of schools:
| School Type | Competitive at 1020? | Sample Colleges & SAT Ranges | Notes |
| Public (Regional) | Yes | Texas State (1010-1180), Eastern Michigan (970-1150) | Solid GPA and extracurriculars can strengthen your application |
| Public (Flagship) | Borderline | Georgia State (1030-1260), San Francisco State (950-1150) | May be below average; other factors like GPA and essays are crucial |
| Private (Mid-tier) | Yes | Piedmont University (990=1200), Cumberland University (920-1160) | Holistic review processes can favor strong overall applications |
| Private (Highly Selective) | No | NYU (1350-1530), Boston College (1410-1540) | 1020 falls significantly below average admitted scores |
Is a 1020 Considered a Good SAT Score?
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A 1020 might be:
- Good for schools with mid-ranges around 950-1150
- Average for many state universities
- Below average for more selective programs or scholarship tiers
Should You Retake the SAT After Scoring a 1020?
You might consider retaking if:
- Your target schools expect 1150+
- You didn’t study much the first time
- You want to qualify for better scholarships
- You had issues on test day—timing, nerves, or tech
“Write down your target schools. Look up the median and 75th percentile SAT scores for those schools. If you are not within that range, study and retake. If you’re in 11th grade and you’re not happy with your score, there is little reason not to put in some effort and retake it once or twice”
— u/ikefalcon, Reddit
Can You Get Scholarships with a 1020 SAT Score?
Yes. While many scholarships require scores of 1200+, there are plenty of exceptions—especially at public schools or for in-state students.
Examples:
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Middle Georgia State University
- University of Louisiana at Monroe
Also check out third-party platforms like Going Merry and Fastweb, which match scholarships to your profile.
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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, Fastweb, Reddit
