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Is a 1280 SAT Score Good? 

Is a 1280 SAT Score Good? 
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Is a 1280 SAT Score Good? 

A 1280 on the SAT puts you well above average—and potentially on track for both college admission and merit scholarships. While it may not get you into ultra-selective schools, it’s a competitive score for many strong public and private universities. If you’re wondering what this score means for your future, you’re not alone—and the answer depends on where you’re applying and what else is in your application.

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What Does a 1280 SAT Score Represent?

A 1280 places you in about the 84th percentile. That means you scored higher than approximately 84% of students nationwide.

Is 1280 a Competitive Score for College Admissions?

Yes. A 1280 is a strong SAT score at most non-Ivy colleges and puts you firmly in the middle-to-upper range at many public flagship universities and test-optional private schools.

It can be especially helpful if:

  • Your GPA is slightly below the school’s average, and you want to show academic potential
  • You’re applying to a merit-based honors program
  • The school values SAT scores even in test-optional policies

Does a 1280 Open the Door to Selective Colleges?

No. Highly selective schools like UCLA typically report SAT middle ranges in the 1300-1500 zone. With a 1280, 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

What Are the Average Score Ranges at Different Colleges?

Here’s how a 1280 compares to SAT middle 50% ranges at a few popular schools:

College SAT Mid-Range Notes
University of Minnesota–Twin Cities 1260-1450 1280 is in the lower-middle of the range
Penn State University (Main Campus) 1200-1410 You’re right in the mix
University of Pittsburgh 1250-1420 Competitive for most programs
University of Colorado Boulder 1170-1370 1280 is above the median
DePaul University Test-optional 1280 is strong if submitted
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Which Colleges Accept a 1280 SAT Score?

With a 1280, you’re in a strong position for both admission and scholarship consideration at many institutions. Here’s a list of well-known universities where a 1280 SAT score falls within or near the middle 50% admitted range:

Institution Mid 50% SAT Range Admission Outlook with 1280 Notes
Temple University (PA) 1120-1340 Competitive You land in the upper half of their admitted pool
University of Oregon (OR) 1150-1340 Competitive A 1280 is safely within range
University of Iowa (IA) 1130-1330 Strong May qualify for direct entry into selective majors
Michigan State University (MI) 1100-1320 Above Average 1280 may open access to merit aid
University of Tennessee (TN) 1170-1330 Strong Close to top of middle 50% range
University of Alabama (AL) 1070-1370 Competitive + Scholarship Eligible May qualify for merit-based tuition reduction

Should You Retake the SAT After Scoring 1280?

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., 710 Reading, 570 Math)
  • You didn’t prepare seriously the first time
  • You’re close to qualifying for a scholarship bump

Can a 1280 SAT Score Qualify You for Scholarships?

Yes, especially at public universities.

Some schools offer automatic merit-based scholarships for students with SAT scores starting at 1280, particularly if paired with a 3.5+ GPA.

Examples:

  • Texas Tech University
  • University of Alabama
  • University of Mississippi
  • University of Missouri

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 Beyond a 1280 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.

Raising your score from 1280 to 1300+ is doable—and for many students, it takes 4-6 weeks of focused prep. 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 went from 1280 to 1530 in just 2.5 months (a 250 point increase). Granted it took me 150 hours of studying. My friend was also able to go from 1270 to 1510 during that same time period with just 50-60 hours of studying”

Reddit

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Top Tips from Our Expert

 

  • A 1280 SAT score is a strong result—it places you ahead of the national average and qualifies you for many respected schools
  • Always check each college’s middle SAT range before deciding to retake
  • Some colleges offer scholarships at 1280, so don’t rule out merit aid
  • Retake only if you’re ready to prep differently—not just “try again”

Alyssa Mendoza, AP Coordinator and College Prep Specialist

Sources: College Board, Going Merry, Scholarships, Reddit

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FAQ

Q: Is a 1280 SAT score good enough for college admissions?
A: Yes. A 1280 SAT score places you in the 84th percentile, which makes you a competitive applicant at many public universities and mid-tier private colleges. It’s above the national average and meets the admissions criteria at dozens of respected institutions.
Q: What should I consider with a 1280 SAT score when applying for scholarships?
A: Many public universities offer automatic merit scholarships starting at 1280, especially if your GPA is 3.5+. You should check each school’s scholarship matrix—some increase awards for just a 20-point score boost. Don’t forget to explore external scholarships via platforms like Scholarships.com or Going Merry.
Q: How does a 1280 SAT score compare to the middle 50% of admitted students?
A: A 1280 typically falls within or slightly above the middle 50% at schools like the University of Oregon, Temple University, and Michigan State. It may be below the midpoint at more selective schools like Boston University, but still solid for general admission at most state flagships.
Q: Can a 1280 SAT score help my chances of getting into a selective college?
A: It depends on the college. At highly selective schools like NYU or Emory, a 1280 is below average, but can still be part of a strong application—especially with a compelling essay, high GPA, and standout extracurriculars. You may also consider applying test-optional at those schools.
Q: What is considered a good SAT score by colleges?
A: “Good” is relative to the schools you’re applying to:

- 1200-1300: Strong for public universities
- 1300-1400: Competitive at selective schools
- 1400+: Excellent for scholarships and top 50 colleges

Always compare your score to the middle 50% SAT range of your target colleges.
Q: Should I aim for a higher SAT score if I got a 1280?
A: Only if:

- Your dream schools have average scores above 1300
- You’re close to a scholarship cutoff
- You feel you can raise your score with new prep

Otherwise, 1280 is a solid score—especially if the rest of your application is strong.
Q: How do SAT and ACT scores compare if I have a 1280 SAT score?
A: A 1280 SAT score roughly converts to a 27-28 ACT score. Both scores are in the same percentile range and considered strong. If you feel more confident with science-based sections, you might do even better on the ACT.
Q: What is the minimum score needed for college admissions?
A: There’s no single “minimum,” but most 4-year colleges look for at least 1000-1050 on the SAT. Open-enrollment and community colleges often don’t require test scores at all. A 1280 places you well above the baseline and in the “ready” range for general education courses.
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Co-Founder & Adviser
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Vasilii Kiselev is a leading expert in online and virtual education and serves as a co-founder and advisor at Legacy Online School. He directs the development of dynamic, interactive, and accessible virtual learning environments, with a focus that spans K-12 education and homeschooling alternatives.

His approach integrates advanced technology to deliver high-quality, flexible learning experiences. Vasilii views Legacy Online School as a platform for empowering students and equipping them with essential digital skills for the future. His work has been featured on platforms such as eLearning Industry and Forbes Councils.