<span>1300 SAT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 1300 SAT Score</span>

1300 SAT Colleges: Best Schools That Accept a 1300 SAT Score

The SAT is a college entrance exam measuring academic proficiency in math, reading, and writing. Scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, a 1600 is considered a perfect score on the SAT. Clocking in at only 300 points shy of the highest available score, a 1300 demonstrates that you ranked in the upper echelon of all students who took the exam and answered a large majority of questions correctly.

 

Is a 1300 Sat Score (87th Percentile) Good? 

Yes. A 1300 on the SAT indicates good performance in all sections of the exam and places you around the 87th percentile of all test takers, meaning you scored higher than 87% of all test takers. 

A score of 1300 makes it possible to apply to just about every college and university in the country and be competitive for admission at the vast majority, including a number of selective schools. One of the goals of taking the SAT is to open up a large number of college options to choose from, a 1300 is very effective with this objective in mind.

 

What Colleges Can I Get Into With An SAT Score of 1300? 

With a 1300 SAT score, you can competitively apply at a majority of colleges, so you can be choosy about where you spend the next 4-years. Schedule a meeting with your college counselor and ask them to suggest a list of schools that might be a good fit based on your social and academic needs. In addition, supplement this information by attending sessions with visiting admissions officers from those schools to get to know them better.

If you already have a list of 7 to 10 colleges that you’re interested in, check the commonly accepted SAT scores. Institutions typically provide two numbers, the 25th and 75th percentiles. If your score falls at, near, or above their 75th percentile, you’re in great shape and are likely a competitive applicant at the college or university. If this is the case, keep up with your classes and focus on maintaining your GPA.

 

Should I Retake The SAT With a 1300 Score? 

The only reason to consider retaking the SAT after earning a 1300 score is if you have your sights set on a very selective or elite school, such as those in the Ivy League. The 25th percentile for these institutions hovers around 1390, which means you may fall short as a competitive candidate. The good news is that you’re close to being eligible. Schedule a test date 4 to 6 weeks out and utilize free SAT prep resources online, pick up a test prep book, or even consider hiring a tutor if it’s an option. The goal for a competitive Ivy League application is 1540.  

Depending on where you are in your senior year, it will likely be difficult to retake the SAT with enough time to study, take the test, and receive your score before college application season starts. The good news is that a 1300 is a great score and makes you a competitive candidate at many colleges and universities. Concentrate on all other aspects of your application, your personal statement, recommendations, and GPA, with the goal of making them as strong as your SAT score.

 

1300 SAT to ACT Equivalent

Earning a 1300 on the SAT is equivalent to earning a 27 on the ACT. Colleges and universities don’t have a preference for one standardized test over the other, nor is one test harder than the other. Simply put, they’re just a bit different and depending on what type of test taker you are, you may ultimately do a bit better on one over the other. 

For instance, the ACT asks you to solve more complex mathematical problems, but the SAT has a no-calculator portion, which may prove more difficult for some. On the other hand, the SAT requires line citations in the Reading portion, while the ACT tests graph and chart reading skills in the “science” section. 

One of the most distinct differences between the tests, however, is the actual taking of the test — time. The ACT has a very demanding time limit, often asking takers to complete more problems than there are minutes. The SAT has a bit more wiggle room if you get stuck on a problem. 

 

Scholarships for a 1300 SAT Score? 

More likely than not, your potential college or university should offer a significant amount of merit aid for your 1300 SAT score, but you should also apply for as many scholarships from other organizations, business, and individuals as possible. Beyond the cost of tuition is the price for books, housing, meal plans, possibly car maintenance or public transportation, and more, so get applying!

 

View All Scholarships

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 1300 a good SAT score?

The average composite SAT score is 1059, and the highest possible score is 1600, putting 1300 above average and competitive. A 1300 SAT score allows you to apply competitively to a large number of schools, making it an objectively good score for most students. 

 

What colleges can I get into with a 1300 SAT score? 

You can apply competitively to a good number of colleges with a 1300 SAT score. Among the many you consider, you may want to look at Pennsylvania State University, Syracuse University, and University of Georgia, all of which accept students with an average composite SAT score near 1300.  

 

What percentile is a 1300 SAT score? 

A 1300 SAT score puts you at the 87th percentile, meaning you scored higher than 87% of all other test takers. 

 

What is the ACT equivalent of a 1300 SAT score? 

Earning a 1300 on the SAT is equivalent to earning a score of 27 on the ACT.

 

What scholarships can you get with a 1300 SAT score? 

You’re eligible to apply for a majority of merit-based scholarships requiring an SAT score. It’s best to start applying to scholarships as early as possible so you can build up some funds to help with the cost of not only college tuition, but also books, housing, meal plans, and more. 

 

View All Scholarships

 

Advanced Search

Founded in 1855 as the New Jersey State Normal School, The College of New Jersey is a 4-year public institution in the Trenton area. TCNJ is home to seven colleges and schools including the oldest teacher-training program in the state.  Today it is...

“…

College does change an individual, and I certainly am no exception. I went to TCNJ expecting to gain better writing skills and become immersed in learning about the journalistic world. In actuality, the real learning came from outside the classroom...

” – Brianna from Matawan, NJ

Originally founded as a normal school, East Tennessee State University is a 4-year public university and part of the State University and Community College System of Tennessee. ETSU is home to 11 colleges and schools granting undergraduate degrees...

“…

I have learned a lot in the classes I have taken so far. I really learned a lot in my computer class and have enjoyed my teachers thus far. After taking sociology class, I decided to take more sociology in the future possibly making it a minor.

” – Morgan from Bluff City, TN

Nestled in the Santa Barbara foothills, Westmont College is a Christian liberal arts college in southern California. Westmont confers bachelor’s degrees in 26 fields of study and is also home to 11 pre-professional academic programs. As a Christian...

“…

Westmont has a really talented, engaging body of faculty members. They are willing to engage with students and strike a really good balance between sharing their expertise and letting students expand and share their ideas. Of course, a lot of this...

Founded in 1846, Taylor University is a private institution and one of the oldest evangelical Christian colleges in the nation. The school is based in Upland, Indiana. All students, staff, and faculty are required to resist tobacco, alcohol, and drug...

“…

Taylor is a great place to learn. Taylor makes sure you have knowledge in a broad spectrum of subjects while still focusing on your own major. Professors are great. Most of them are very willing to help you outside of class and help you do well. I...

” – Heidi from Upland, IN

Champlain College is a four-year private school with a beautiful campus in the heart of Burlington, Vermont, overlooking Lake Champlain and the Adirondack mountains. Champlain offers career-focused undergraduate degrees in 33 fields of study. Its...

“…

Champlain has a lot of great teachers that don't hesitate to take their personal time to make you the best you can be. Whenever people said that I'd always think they were being paid but honestly it's true. It's only been one year but I've improved a...

” – Amber from Warren, RI

Founded in 1842, Roanoke College is a 4-year liberal arts institution, the second-oldest Lutheran-affiliated college in America. Roanoke offers over 100 areas of study on its Salem, Virginia, campus, all of which are complemented by a core curriculum...

“…

The teachers on campus try and reach every student. You have to want to learn! The teachers aren't going to bother with someone who doesn't want to learn.

” – Dayla from Pomfret, MD

Simmons University is a private, liberal arts university located in Boston, Massachusetts. Simmons offers a women’s undergraduate education in 60+ majors and programs, as well as four graduate schools for its co-ed graduate population. The university...

“…

My classes at Simmons have proved to be exciting and stimulating, and there are also a lot of social opportunities at Simmons. This includes frequent events such as plays, movie nights, sporting events, city outings, special guests and more. Not to...

” – Anne from Philadelphia

College placeholder image

Albion College is a private liberal arts college associated with the United Methodist Church, though the institution is committed to religious diversity and non-discrimination. It is included in the 2019 Top 100 Liberal Arts Colleges in the US...

“…

I'll be a sophomore for the 2009-2010 school year. The classes I took last year were mainly the basic classes for starting your science major and I felt like I was learning a lot and it was challenging but manageable.

” – Ashley from Waterford, MI

Founded by the Church of the Nazarene in 1902, Point Loma Nazarene University is a Christian liberal arts college in San Diego. PLU offers undergraduate degrees in over 60 fields of study and the university’s Office of Strengths and Vocation provides...

“…

The school has a great academic atmosphere. Because of the policy prohibiting drugs or alcohol on campus, students can focus on learning and enjoy their studies in a healthy environment. The school provides great opportunities for extra-curricular...

” – Adam Corfman from San Diego, CA

Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Oklahoma City University is a 4-year liberal arts and sciences university in Oklahoma’s capital city. OKCU hosts 10 colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees in over 70 academic majors. For...

“…

I feel that I am challenged by several of my teachers. My English composition teacher Ms. Keller really helped me learn how to write a cohesive and interesting essay. My public speaking teacher helped me get over my fear of formally speaking in front...

” – Shavonne from Oklahoma City, OK

Founded in 1907, Olivet Nazarene University is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. Olivet Nazarene confers bachelor’s degrees in over 140 academic areas of study. As a Christian institution, ONU holds twice...

“…

Because I was an undeclared major my freshman year I took a lot of different classes. I learned a lot of things in all of them. All the teachers that I had were very good and really cared about their students.

” – Andy from Peoria, IL

Youngstown State University is a 4-year public school and urban research university based in northeast Ohio. Youngstown State awards undergraduate degrees in over 115 academic majors and is home to research centers including the Center of Excellence...

“…

Of course. The teachers are very helpful and will lend a hand whenever you need it.

” – Shanelle from Jeannette, PA

Located on a 150-acre wooded campus, Nazareth College is a 4-year private school in western New York State. Nazareth confers bachelor’s degrees in over 60 academic majors featuring a general education curriculum linked to internships and career...

“…

The professors at Nazareth are great. However, to be a realist, you will always run into those professors that you feel just may not know quite as much as they make it seem. Although once in a great while this happens, all of the professors are open...

” – Alyson from Newark, NY

Morehead State University is a public institution situated at the base of the Daniel Boone National Forest in Morehead, Kentucky. MSU has one of only five space science programs in the nation and offers all students a chance for undergraduate...

“…

Love this school...not to small yet its right between home and Lexington. Campus is beautiful the lake is gorgeous. The housing on campus is getting updated and renovated, to make it more modern. Morehead is AHMAZING!!!

” – Jenna from Ashland, KY

Named for a former state governor, Austin Peay State University is a public institution in north Tennessee. Austin Peay is home to colleges of Arts & Letters, Business, Education, Health Sciences, and STEM conferring undergraduate degrees. In...

“…

Members of Austin Peay's faculty are very friendly and helpful. Most professors have an open door policy and are willing to do anything to help their students learn. Also, with the honors program, there are multiple opportunities to build on the...

” – April from Clarksville, TN

Stephen F. Austin State University is a public institution located in Nacogdoches, Texas. It ranks #22 in Top Public Schools by the U.S. News & World Report. The university offers its students the chance to participate in Moot Court, Model UN, and...

“…

Four out of five of my classes, and I'm ignoring my math class because it's not my strong point, had teachers that were not afraid to engage with you and make sure you know what you needed and wanted to know. When I feel like a teacher wants me to...

” – Jennifer from Hitchcock, TX

Founded in 1862, the University of South Dakota is the state’s oldest public university and is a designated R2 research university by the Carnegie Foundation. The Vermillion campus is located along the bluffs of the Missouri River and home to seven...

“…

From day one the teachers are really excited about teaching. Many professors, while not able to get to know students in class, welcome office visits with open arms. The class variety makes it easy to explore options and get a taste of other majors...

” – Anne

Xavier University of Louisiana is an historically black college and university (HBCU) located in New Orleans. This 4-year, liberal arts institution is one of 10 to receive a Building Infrastructures Leading to Diversity (BUILD) award for their...

“…

At Xavier professors care, they are always available to you. Xavier being a small school your classes are a lot smaller and you get the chance to interact with your professors and really get an understanding of what they are teaching. Also when you...

” – Antoinette from Washington, DC

Regent University is a private, non denominational evangelical institution based on the coast of Virginia Beach, VA. It is a military-friendly university with a “selective” admissions process. Many students choose to study communications, biblical...

“…

With seven different schools, stretching from psychology and law to theater and cinema production (offered at both grad and undergrad levels), Regent University is the place to be if you are a blossoming Christian leader. The learning environment...

” – Lauren from Senoia, GA

Founded in 1907, the University of Central Arkansas is a 4-year public school and one of the oldest universities in the state. UCA awards undergraduate degrees in 86 academic programs and is one of the largest producers of teachers in Arkansas. For...

“…

I am a second semester freshman. In the classes i have taken so far, I have learned so much! The science department here is a really great one. If you are struggling in any of your classes there are people, including your professors that are here and...

” – Megan from Sherwood, AR

Saint Mary’s College is a private, Catholic, women’s college in Notre Dame, IN with a focus on “creating leaders & women of action.” The college offers more than 50 academic programs, which include six nationally accredited programs, and four...

“…

My current intended major is Nursing, but I'm learning so many other great things that I feel more informed about the world than ever before. Not only is St. Mary's good at teaching her students about the past, but also on keeping us updated about...

” – Allison from Battle Creek, MI

Founded by the Reformed Presbyterian Church in 1887, Cedarville University is a 4-year Baptist school in southwest Ohio. Cedarville offers undergraduate degrees in more than 150 biblically integrated academic programs and each program features a...

“…

Cedarville University has much to offer its students in everything from academics to volunteer ministry opportunities. Its faculty are all top notch, with most having their doctorate in their chosen fields. They are all passionate about teaching and...

” – Melody from De Pere, WI

The University of Central Oklahoma is a 4-year public school in the Oklahoma City metro area and one of the oldest universities in the southwest United States. UCO oversees six colleges granting bachelor’s degrees in 121 areas of study and operates...

“…

The classes here are challenging, but the instructors understand that you have other classes so they don't overload you.

” – Lauren from Bixby, OK

Truman State University is a 4-year public liberal arts college in northeast Missouri. Truman confers bachelor’s degrees in 36 academic majors and its Liberal Studies program combines “traditional learning” and “personal investigation.” Truman hosts...

“…

There is a wide selection of classes to choose from and while it is sometimes difficult to get into a desired class there are many more options open. The smaller class sizes really allow you to interact better with your teacher and so get more out of...

” – Keara from Wildwood, MO

Northern Kentucky University is a 4-year public university in the greater Cincinnati area. NKU confers bachelor’s degrees in over 70 academic fields of study. In addition to classroom facilities, the Northern Kentucky campus is home to a laser...

“…

The school is quickly becoming well-known for its academics now more than ever.

” – Olivia from Cincinnati, OH

Originally founded as Mankato Normal School, Minnesota State University-Mankato is a 4-year public school overlooking the Blue Earth River valley in central Minnesota. MSU Mankato operates six colleges offering bachelor’s degrees in 130 fields of...

“…

You are able to learn the material in a matter of time and your time will not be wasted. The professors are willing to schedule days in which they can give you one on one help. There will be a lot of information that comes at once that you will need...

” – Antonio from Minneapolis, MN

Originally founded as the Alaska Agricultural College and School of Mines, the University of Alaska Fairbanks is a public school and flagship campus of the U of A System. The oldest institution of higher-learning in the state, UAF is home to nine...

“…

I am a current student at UAF studying Chemistry Forensics. While I have only taken my general requirement classes, I feel that a majority of the classes are very well planned out and teach new information. Some of the classes are easy to pass with...

” – Rianna from Fairbanks, AK

With campus a short walk from the Mississippi River, Winona State University is a public institution in southeast Minnesota and the oldest school in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. WSU is home to five colleges conferring...

“…

Winona is a great college! I am absolutely learning a lot of information in a variety of classes! I am a nursing major, and I brought a year's worth of credits in with me from taking PSEO classes during my junior and senior years of high school...

” – Krystal from Echo, MN

The California Institute of the Arts is a private university that offers degree programs in visual and performing arts. CalArts offers degrees in more than 70 degree-granting programs in Art, Music, Dance, Theater, and Film, with all undergraduate...

“…

Really awesome if you know what you want. This university is all about the business, you don't want to muck around waiting for someone to tell you what you're going to do.

” – Marvin from Norwalk, CA

Molloy University is a coeducational Catholic institution on Long Island. Molloy confers degrees in over 50 undergrad and graduate programs and the college is home to one of the largest nursing programs in the United States. As a Catholic university...

“…

At Molloy, you have to be try to not get involved in the campus life. There is always a ton of events going on and although it is a small school, the campus life is easily comparable to any larger school. I have been given opportunities here that I...

” – Robert from Smithtown, NY

Founded in 1842, Willamette University is a liberal arts institution in northwest Oregon and the oldest university in the western half of the United States. Willamette’s College of Liberal Arts offers undergraduate degrees in over 40 academic fields...

“…

Each day at Willamette I have anywhere from two to five hours of class, at least this semester, and for each class I come out learning something new. Of course some days I learn more than others, but everyday I go to class I know that I will learn a...

” – Zachery from California

Founded by The Society of Jesus, Le Moyne College is a Jesuit institution in Syracuse, NY. The first co-ed Jesuit college in the United States, Le Moyne offers degrees in over 100 majors, minors and special programs. For students interested in the...

“…

At Le Moyne since it is a small school all the teachers know you on a personal level, and are very understanding. Teachers make sure that you are understanding the lessons and if you need extra help most of the time they are available for help during...

” – Kristin from Putnam Valley, NY

Hanover College’s campus is nestled along the banks of the scenic Ohio River. Founded in 1827, Hanover is the oldest private college in Indiana. Our stunning natural campus is just an easy drive from one of 3 major metropolitan areas- Indianapolis...

“…

Hanover is more than a college, it's a community. I've never felt so accepted and welcomed in such a great environment. I feel like I wouldn't be the same person without my liberal arts education I've received here.

” – Shana from Hanover, IN

College placeholder image

The University of Dallas is a small, private Catholic institution based in Irving, Texas. The school offers programs in business, liberal arts, and ministry. A majority (approximately 80%) of students participate in the Rome study abroad programs. It...

“…

This University is definitely a challenge. You will learn to make connections between two or more subjects you're studying simultaneously, and can therefore more easily apply your knowledge to everyday life and your future career...UD is big on the...

” – Amanda from Clint, TX

Houston Christian University is a 4-year institution located on 100 acres of land just outside of its namesake town in Texas. The university promotes academic, spiritual, and academic excellence centered around their central confession “Jesus Christ...

“…

HBU has a lot to offer and has a very well rounded academic selection.

” – rohana from Houston, TX

With campus overlooking the St. Mary’s River,  St. Mary’s College of Maryland is a liberal arts institution in the Chesapeake Bay region. One of only two public honors colleges in the nation, St. Mary’s offers bachelor’s degrees in 24 academic majors...

“…

I am consistently challenged at St. Mary's. Each of my classes has been interesting and informative, even in areas that I had already studied previously. As a sophomore, I have already learned so much academically, and I've also learned a lot about...

” – Rachel from Marriottsville, MD

Founded in 1847, Saint Francis University is a Catholic liberal arts institution in western Pennsylvania and is the oldest Franciscan Catholic university in the United States. Saint Francis confers undergraduate degrees in 50+ academic fields of...

“…

Saint Francis University has been great in transitioning me from living at home, to living away from family members. The environment is very welcoming and all of the faculty and staff are more than willing to help any student in need. Saint Francis...

” – Jordan from Pittsburgh, PA

At York College of Pennsylvania, we believe that a life of passion and purpose is built by learning and experiencing every day. At York College, our approach to education is practical and experiential, focusing on real-world experiences that allow...

“…

so far i have only taken core classes but they were very useful to my major. The college will not put you in classes you don't need.

” – Hilary from West Deptford, NJ

College placeholder image

Elmira College is a private, coeducational liberal arts school located in Elmira, New York, and nationally recognized as the “Twain Site” as the guardian to the Quarry Farm and home of the Center for Mark Twain Studies, as well as the Mark Twain...

“…

I have learned a lot through the required freshman courses. Freshman writing has taught me a lot about writing that I didn't learn in high school. Encore has helped me to broaden my view on music and performing arts. Community service has taught me...

” – Megan from Lawrenceville, NJ

California State University, Monterey Bay is changing the way students experience college! Featuring a diverse student body on a campus located just one mile from the beautiful Pacific Ocean. California State University, Monterey Bay offers students...

“…

The classes are not too large so the teachers have more one-on-one time with their students. The only problem are furlough days that take away more time to learn.

” – Pauline from Whittier, CA

Founded in 1855, Berea College is a liberal arts college in Kentucky and the first coed and interracial college in the south. Berea confers bachelor’s degrees in 32 academic majors and the college provides free tuition to all students through the...

“…

The professors all make sure that you are keeping up, but at the same time, you are expected to keep up to the rigorous pace they set. We currently operate on a 4-1-4 calendar year. That means that fall semester is 4 months, we have a January Short...

” – Morgan from Campbellsville, KY

Founded in 1819 and situated near the Great Smoky Mountains, Maryville College is a 4-year liberal arts college in east Tennessee. Maryville confers bachelor’s degrees in more than 60 academic programs. Surrounded by a 140-acre forest, Maryville...

“…

Maryville College taught me how to write a premier college paper. MC also taught me how to manage my time through my freshman classes, faculty, and student body. Maryville College made school interesting and fun through the activities that occur in...

” – Ryan from Knoxville, TN

Founded in 1887, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is an Historically Black College and University in Tallahassee and the only public HBCU in the state of Florida. Florida A&M is home to 12 colleges and schools granting bachelor’s...

“…

The professors come from all over the world and are always willing to share their personal perspective upon request...

” – Karl from Dallas, TX

College placeholder image

Messiah College is a private liberal arts and sciences institution based in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. It was founded by the Brethren in Christ Church and has a “more selective” admissions process. Students are required to sign a Community Covenant...

“…

Mostly my classes have been small enough to be able to get to know the teacher, yet large enough to have a discussion that has representatives from many different worldviews. Even the lecture classes have been small, especially considering what...

” – Messiah Student, Health and Exercise Science Major

Ohio Northern University is a private institution based in Ada, OH, associated with the United Methodist Church. ONU is a sister university of a private school in Seoul, South Korea, the Dankook University. ONU offers one of the only pharmacy...

“…

Smaller school but a lot of majors to choose from. Teachers will take an interest in their students

” – HS Senior looking for the right college

Dallas Baptist University is a private Christian institution that features a “Christ-centered,” liberal arts curriculum with “selective” admissions. DBU operates three campuses around Texas in Dallas, Hurst, and Plano. A majority of students choose...

“…

Looks like a great place to be, and is perfect for pursuing my call to Ministry.

” – David from Center, TX

The University of Nebraska at Omaha is a public institution and doctoral/research facility according to the Carnegie Foundation. It is home to a Biomechanics Research Building, Barbara Weitz Community Engagement Center, and Baxter Arena. UNO is a...

“…

The professors at UNO are exceptional and all those I have had are extremely knowledgeable in their fields. Also the course offerings are extremely diverse giving me a lot of new knowledge.

” – Stephanie from Smithville, MO

The University of Maryland-Baltimore County is a 4-year public institution based in Baltimore and part of the University of Maryland system. UMBC is home to seven colleges and schools hosting over 55 undergraduate degree-granting programs. In...

“…

I did not expect to learn much due to entering this college with AP credits, but I have still learned many new things due to the immense variety of classes. In my internship, 90% or more of my daily activities were taught.

” – Roxanne from Glen Burnie, MD

Founded in 1885, Goucher College is a private liberal arts institution based in Towson, Maryland. Goucher College places academic focuses on the “3Rs: Relationships, Resilience, and Reflection.” The campus is listed on the National Register of...

“…

Goucher is a place where students honestly learn as much inside as outside the classroom about people, society, and our country's role in the world. My professors were all incredibly accessible and ready to answer any questions i had and offer any...

” – Grace from Philadelphia, PA

North Central College is a private comprehensive institution located just 30 miles west of Chicago in Naperville, Illinois. Founded in 1861, North Central offers nearly 100 different majors, minors and programs that serve the needs and interests of...

“…

The classes have been small and very informative. I have had no problems scheduling classes when I want them or changing time/day if I need to. I was also allowed to apply to the teacher education program before starting my sophomore year. The...

” – Tyler from Sandwich, IL