The SAT is an important part of the college admissions process, but every time you retake the test, you need to invest a lot of extra time and energy, so it’s natural to wonder if your 800 SAT score is good enough. It’s not the lowest possible score (you’ll receive 400 points for a test without any correct answers), but you may have hoped for something higher.
If you’re wondering whether you need to retake the SAT or not, Empowerly can help. In this guide, we’ll break down what an 800 SAT score really means, suggest colleges where you may still be competitive, and provide insights into whether retaking the exam is a good idea for you.
What Does an 800 SAT Score Mean?
The SAT is scored out of 1600. It has two sections, Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math, that each contribute 800 points. Your final SAT score is calculated by adding your points on the EBRW and Math sections together. Therefore, An 800 SAT score represents your total score between both sections.
The average SAT score is between 1050-1100. An 800 SAT score places you at the lower end of the scoring range, within the bottom 10%. Depending on the colleges you’re looking at, this score can present some admissions challenges. However, while an 800 is below average, colleges look at more than just standardized test scores during the admissions process, so may still stand a chance.
So, Is 800 a Good SAT Score?
Unfortunately, by most standards, an 800 is not considered a competitive SAT score. Top-tier colleges generally look for scores well above 1200, and the most selective schools look for applicants who score within the 1400-1600 range. However, an 800 doesn’t completely rule out your chances of getting into college. Plenty of colleges have more flexible admissions policies, and test scores are only one factor in admissions decisions.
Additionally, some schools are test-optional, meaning they don’t require SAT or ACT scores for admission. Therefore, if you have strong extracurriculars, a solid GPA, and other achievements, you can choose not to submit your 800 SAT score–and you could still be accepted.
Colleges That Accept an 800 SAT Score
While it may seem like your options are limited, there are still colleges where you can apply with an 800 SAT score. Many of these colleges have a more holistic admissions process, where your full application matters more than just your test scores.
Here are ten schools where an 800 SAT score gives you a fighting chance:
1. Texas Southern University
- Average SAT Score: 810-990
- Average GPA: 2.9
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Location: Houston, TX
- Average Tuition Cost: $8,972 (in-state), $21,443 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: Texas Southern University is a historically Black university that prides itself on expanding access to higher education for students from all backgrounds. TSU takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they consider more than just test scores. If your application includes strong personal essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular involvement, and community service, your SAT score won’t weigh as heavily. TSU’s high acceptance rate reflects its commitment to helping students prove their academic potential in a supportive environment.
2. Delaware State University
- Average SAT Score: 860-1070
- Average GPA: 3.19
- Acceptance Rate: 62%
- Location: Dover, DE
- Average Tuition Cost: $8,358 (in-state), $18,280 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: Delaware State University is a historically Black college that values diversity, leadership, and community engagement. While an 800 SAT score is below their average, DSU looks for well-rounded students who have demonstrated resilience, leadership, and ambition. So, if you can showcase your motivation and maturity in other parts of your application, like your essays, GPA, and leadership roles, you may still be a competitive applicant.
3. Bowie State University
- Average SAT Score: 700-1091
- Average GPA: 3.18
- Acceptance Rate: 84%
- Location: Bowie, MD
- Average Tuition Cost: $8,574 (in-state), $19,224 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: Bowie State University, part of the University System of Maryland, offers a range of academic programs and is known for supporting first-generation and underrepresented students. The university’s admissions process is specifically designed to look beyond standardized tests to explore a student’s full potential. In fact, Bowie State University is test-optional. If you can demonstrate leadership, persistence, and commitment to your studies and community, you may have a strong chance of admission. Bowie State also offers extensive academic support services, so if you struggled academically in high school, Bowie State can help you succeed at the college level.
4. Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO)
- Average SAT Score: 850-1080
- Average GPA: 2.7
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Location: New Orleans, LA
- Average Tuition Cost: $7,692 (in-state), $16,838 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: The Southern University at New Orleans is a public, historically Black university with a mission of making higher education accessible to all. They recognize that standardized test scores don’t always reflect a student’s full potential. SUNO looks at other parts of your application, such as your personal statement and high school GPA, to gauge your likelihood of success. If you can show a passion for learning and a commitment to your future goals, SUNO may be willing to give you a chance, even with an 800 SAT score.
5. Paine College
- Average SAT Score: 798-943
- Average GPA: 2.56
- Acceptance Rate: 51.5%
- Location: Augusta, GA
- Average Tuition Cost: $14,186
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: Paine College is a small, private, historically Black college that focuses on providing a nurturing academic environment. The admissions process considers your GPA, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities, and SAT scores are optional. Paine places a significant emphasis on personal growth and integrity, making it a viable option for students who may have struggled with standardized tests but excel in other areas. Showcasing your dedication to personal development and service can strengthen your application.
6. University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP)
- Average SAT Score: 870-1090
- Average GPA: 3.28
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Location: El Paso, TX
- Average Tuition Cost: $9,744 (in-state), $24,952 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: UTEP is a public research university that offers broad access to higher education, particularly for first-generation students. With a 100% acceptance rate, UTEP welcomes a wide range of students, including those with lower SAT scores. In fact, UTEP is a test-optional school, and you can submit a strong writing sample in lieu of the SAT. UTEP prioritizes student success, offering extensive support services, from tutoring to career counseling, to help students thrive, regardless of their starting point.
7. Voorhees College
- Average SAT Score: 810
- Average GPA: 2.0
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Location: Denmark, SC
- Average Tuition Cost: $12,630
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: Voorhees College is a private, historically Black institution committed to student success. If you demonstrate a strong work ethic, leadership abilities, and dedication to your community, Voorhees is likely to consider your full profile, despite a low SAT score. The school is focused on helping students reach their potential through small class sizes, academic support programs, mentorship, and personal growth opportunities.
8. Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
- Average SAT Score: 830-1070
- Average GPA: 2.37
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Location: Cheyney, PA
- Average Tuition Cost: $10,904 (in-state), $16,170 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: Cheyney University, the nation’s first historically Black college, has a mission to provide educational opportunities to students who may not have access to other institutions. Cheyney places a strong emphasis on character, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. An 800 SAT score won’t necessarily disqualify you, especially if you demonstrate leadership potential, resilience, and a passion for learning. Cheyney also offers robust student support services to ensure all students can succeed once admitted.
9. University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB)
- Average SAT Score: 878-1043
- Average GPA: 2.9
- Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Location: Pine Bluff, AR
- Average Tuition Cost: $8,326 (in-state), $15,544 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff is a public HBCU with a mission to help students from underserved communities succeed in higher education. UAPB takes a holistic approach to admissions and is known for giving students the chance to prove their academic capabilities. If you have demonstrated perseverance, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to your education, UAPB will seriously consider you, despite a lower SAT score.
10. Western Kentucky University (WKU)
- Average SAT Score: 940-1130
- Average GPA: 3.49
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Location: Bowling Green, KY
- Average Tuition Cost: $10,992 (in-state), $27,048 (out-of-state)
- Why You Can Still Be Competitive: WKU is known for providing a welcoming environment for students from varying academic backgrounds. With an acceptance rate of 98%, they are open to students who may not meet higher SAT score benchmarks but show potential in other areas. WKU is a test-optional score that considers factors such as GPA, extracurriculars, and personal essays in their admissions process. If you can demonstrate academic growth, involvement in your school or community, and the motivation to succeed, you’ll be given a chance. Additionally, WKU offers programs designed to help students improve academically once they’re admitted.
Should You Retake the SAT?
If an 800 SAT score doesn’t align with your college goals, retaking the test might be a good idea. Many students improve their scores by studying the specific areas where they performed poorly. You could also explore whether the ACT would be a better fit for your abilities and learning style.
Timing also plays a key role in deciding whether you should retake the SAT. Registration, studying, and retaking the exam requires significant effort. So, if it’s already September of your senior year, you may want to redirect your energy towards other aspects of your college applications. However, if you are a junior, you have plenty of time to retake the SAT or try the ACT.
Finally, consider the schools you are interested in. What are their admissions requirements and average SAT scores? Do they have a holistic admissions process? Do you have a strong GPA and well-rounded extracurriculars that can balance out that 800 SAT score? Weigh all these factors.
If you believe a higher SAT score will significantly improve your chances of getting into your preferred colleges, then retaking the test could be worth it. Just make sure that you have enough time to study; otherwise, you may not see a meaningful difference in your scores.
Tips for Retaking the SAT
If you do decide to retake the SAT, prepare carefully beforehand so that you can maximize your chances of improving your scores. Try these tips for retaking the SAT:
- Practice Tests. Take official SAT practice tests to help you identify areas of improvement and guide your studying.
- SAT Prep Books. Use resources like the College Board’s SAT prep books to help you prepare.
- Tutoring. Enroll in an SAT prep course or hire a one-on-one tutor for personalized support.
- Time Management Practice time management strategies to ensure you have enough time to complete each section without rushing.
- Strategic Study Techniques. Use your prior SAT experience to tailor your study habits to your weak areas. You can also try breaking up your study sessions into smaller, more manageable chunks
- Day-Of Preparation. Get enough sleep before you take your exam, eat a healthy breakfast, and practice stress reduction techniques to make sure you’re physically and mentally prepared for test day.
- Try, Try, Again. If you have the time and energy, take the SAT more than once to see if you can improve any section of your score, especially if you are applying to any colleges that superscore your results.
Alternatives to the SAT:
Many colleges are test-optional, meaning you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores. Additionally, some schools may place more weight on other aspects of your application, such as essays, interviews, and extracurriculars. Researching test-optional schools can help you avoid the pressure of needing to retake the SAT if standardized tests aren’t your strength.
Strategies for Improving Your SAT Score:
Believe it or not, you don’t have to take the SAT at all. If you’re looking for an alternative to the SAT:
- Try the ACT, a different college preparation test that pairs better with some students’ learning styles.
- Look for colleges that are test-optional, meaning you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores.
Remember, if you are unhappy with your SAT score, you still have options!
Get SAT Support with Empowerly
An 800 SAT score may not be ideal, but it doesn’t mark the end of your college dreams. Whether you decide to retake the SAT or explore test-optional schools, there are plenty of paths to success, and Empowerly is here to guide you every step of the way.
Our team of college admissions experts spends 25x more time with students than the average high school counselor, and 99% of the Class of 2024 got into the top 100 US colleges. We’re here to help you prepare for the SAT or ACT, build your college list, and refine your essays. No matter what you need, Empowerly’s got your back.
Schedule a free 30-minute consultation with our team today!
