<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

The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga is a 4-year public university in southern Tennessee and one of three campuses in the UT System. UTC hosts colleges of Arts & Sciences, Business, Engineering, and Professional Studies conferring undergraduate...

“…

I've learned so much, not just in classes but being on my own and on campus. Responsibility is huge when in college. You have to study twice the amount of time you're in class. Aside from academics, I've learned how to cope without my circle of...

” – Brittany from Signal Mountain, TN

Southeast Missouri State University is a large, public institution located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau. The school operates three regional campuses around the state in Sikeston, Malden, and Kennett. SEMO offers study...

“…

Southeast is a wonderful university for Education Major. This school is ranked in the Top 10 colleges across America for teaching. The teachers are really understanding of your personal situations and they do their very best to see that you get a...

” – Misty from Malden, MO

Georgetown College is a 4-year Christian liberal arts college in northern Kentucky and the first Baptist college in the region. Georgetown confers bachelor’s degrees in 45 academic majors and also features several programs of distinction such as...

“…

I am only in my first semester at Georgetown, but I already feel like I am learning a great deal. The teachers are very helpful, and will not hesitate to work with you until you understand something. Their doors are always open outside of class also...

” – Caitlin from Florence, KY

Elms College is a 4-year liberal arts institution located in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Founded by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield, MA, Elms is a Catholic college and offers mass Monday through Thursday, as well as missions trips, programs...

“…

Elms College is best described as a friendly, tight knit family. Being a smaller college, students quickly become familiar and comfortable with their professors and fellow students. With a diverse population of students, a beautiful campus, and...

” – Rachel from Ellington, CT

The University of Missouri-St Louis is a 4-year public school and the largest public research institution in eastern Missouri. Part of the University of Missouri System, UMSL is home to nine colleges and schools conferring undergraduate degrees. In...

“…

UMSL is the place for you if you want:
1) Teachers that actually care about your learning experience and about you as an individual.
2) Affordable education with free parking!!!
3) A centrally located school that offers every major under the sun.

” – Samantha from Ballwin, MO

Rockford University is a private, 4-year institution established on a suburban, 150-acre campus in Winnebago County, Illinois. Rockford offers over 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, minors, and concentrations through the College of Arts and...

“…

The teachers are really interested in your learning. So if you ask questions they will give you the best and detailed answer. They will be available to you at every hour so you could ask them questions about the homework or any problem you might have...

” – Erick from Rockford, IL

College placeholder image

The University of Saint Francis is a private, Christ-centered institution located in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The campus features a number of historic facilities, such as the Brookside Mansion, which once was home to the entire college, and now hosts...

“…

The courses at the University are in a word: Fantastic. The class sizes are of course small in comparison to a larger University but its not necessarily the size that accounts for the quality of the education. The professors are the one's who make a...

” – Kyle from Monroe, IN

With campus a short distance from the Ohio River, the University of Southern Indiana is a 4-year public school in southwest Indiana. USI confers bachelor’s degrees in 87 areas of study featuring a community-focused curriculum with an emphasis on...

“…

You learn a lot about yourself. It sounds cheesy, but it's true. You discover just what you're capable of doing and how much effort you're willing to put out there for what you want.

” – Shannon from Bloomington, IN

Columbia College is a 4-year coeducational liberal arts institution in central Missouri. Columbia offers bachelor’s degrees in over 30 academic majors, as well as 10 associate degree-granting programs and eight master’s degrees. Additionally...

“…

The professors here are great at what they do! I come from a pretty studious background, and many people thought college would be way too easy for me, but I am being challenged every day, and constantly learn new things!

” – Jessica from Mexico, MO

Ouachita Baptist University is a private, Christian, liberal arts college established in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. OBU students are required to complete two classes in religion and seven credits of chapel throughout their academic career in order to...

“…

The professors at Ouachita are incredible. They are brilliant in their subjects and have a passion for teaching!

” – Tiffani from The Colony, TX

Henderson State University is one of only 10 public schools in the state and has the alma mater “The School with a Heart.” Rated as having “selective” admissions, HSU offers the only bachelor’s degree in aviation in the state. The Reynolds...

“…

I have taken several classes, and almost every one of them I have learned a lot of new information from. There were only a couple classes that I didn't really retain much, because they seemed to be a review from the college prep classes from high...

” – Brittany from Malvern, AR

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is the second largest public university in the state and maintains six colleges that collectively offer more than 120 majors. Programs at UMass Lowell span and interconnect the disciplines of business, education...

“…

UMass Lowell won't just teach you about writing, math, and science- it takes you beyond to learn about yourself. One must learn to manage time well with so many campus activities. The school also has a great amount of diversity, which helps students...

” – Jessica from Bradford, MA

Randolph-Macon College is a 4-year liberal arts college located in Ashland, Virginia – just 15 minutes north of the capital city of Richmond. This central location offers all the benefits of a safe and walkable community, paired with easy access to...

“…

Although I am only a freshman, I have learned a lot both inside the classroom and out. You are able to learn so much at Randolph-Macon because it is a small private college and helps you show your true potential. The classroom sizes are...

” – Megan from Stafford, VA

College placeholder image

Founded in 1896, Delaware Valley University is a private institution situated in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. DelVal confers undergraduate degrees in 25 majors focused on Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Business, and all academic programs incorporate...

“…

The classes offer a good level of work and challenge that makes sure you will not be forgetting any of it soon.

” – Jossette from Erie, PA

Founded in 1894, Louisiana Tech University is a 4-year public school in northern Louisiana. Louisiana Tech is home to five colleges of Liberal Arts, Applied & Natural Sciences, Business, Education, and Engineering conferring undergraduate degrees...

“…

I'm an entering sophomore this year, and I can already say that I love Tech. The teachers I've had have been pretty great. I'm definitely enjoying the challenge of getting a college education. I think Tech makes the transition from high school to...

” – Tiffany from Bossier City, LA

College placeholder image

Central Methodist University is a private, liberal arts institution established in Fayette, Missouri. While CMU is affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the university values diversity and diplomacy making students of all faiths welcome. CMU’s...

College placeholder image

Nicholls State University is a public institution with “selective” admissions located in the rural town of Thibodaux, Louisiana, 50 miles west of New Orleans. The institution is named after Francis Redding Tillou Nicholls, a brigadier general for the...

“…

The teachers are very friendly & willing to go out of their way to help you to the best of their ability. If you're having trouble with anything all you have to do is ask. The material covered in the classes are interesting & challenging.

” – Amanda from Raceland, LA

With campus along the shore of the St. Joseph River, Andrews University is a Christian school in southwest Michigan and the flagship institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Andrews hosts six colleges and schools featuring over 130 degrees...

“…

The opportunity to learn is definitely obvious at Andrews University. The options are numerous. Classes are challenging and, for the most part, engaging.

” – Danika from Hamburg, PA

College placeholder image

Lebanon Valley College is a private school based in Annville, Pennsylvania, affiliated with the United Methodist Church. The school offers multiple accelerated undergrad/master’s programs that allow students to earn dual degrees in 4-6 years. LVS...

“…

Lebanon Valley excels in all of its programs! As I am currently planning on majoring in Physical Therapy, I will continue onto the next phase of graduate study in only 3 years! This school cuts off one entire year of schooling, condenses it, but...

” – Jennifer from Taneytown, MD

College placeholder image

St. Bonaventure University is a small, private institution located in the rural town of Allegany, New York. It is associated with the Roman Catholic Church and provides a “values-based” curriculum. Journalism, accounting, and marketing are the most...

“…

I know one thing students hate are mandatory classes; but honestly these classes, at Bonaventure called CLARE courses, give you a wider range of knowledge. I'm learning things I wouldn't in my major and I find it really interesting. Granted some...

” – Heather from Penn Yan, NY

Originally founded in 1860 as St. Francis Solanus College, Quincy University is a 4-year liberal arts college in western Illinois affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church. Quincy grants undergrad degrees in over 40 academic majors and provides a...

“…

Quincy University is a campus near the Mississippi river and is gorgeous. The staff are all very friendly and willing to help many people when ever they need to or are needed. Like the staff the students are all very outgoing and willing to meet new...

” – Taylor from Quincy, IL

College placeholder image

Limestone College is an independent liberal arts school located in Gaffney, South Carolina. The school has “selective” admissions and provides a curriculum based on Christian values and ethics. Traditional students attend the “Day” program, while...

“…

Professors are extremely helpful, and are available to help whenever you need them!

” – Katherine from Trenton, NC

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a comprehensive collection of programs designed to position students for success in aerospace, aviation, business, security and intelligence, engineering and beyond. Its campus in Prescott, Arizona, is home...

“…

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott has a huge advantage when it comes to classroom learning. The university is fairly small, an estimated 1500 students total which provides a small faculty-student ratio. Many of my fellow peers who attend...

” – Anna from Fountain Hills, AZ

Chartered in 1835, Oglethorpe University is a private liberal arts college situated in Brookhaven, Georgia. The Oglethorpe University’s Gothic revival-style campus has been added to the National Register of Historic Places. It is home to the Crypt of...

“…

Financial aid is wonderful at this school. It's a private school and is therefore expensive, but they will do their utmost to help you attend.

” – Lindsey from Peachtree City, GA

Since 1808, Mount St. Mary’s University has inspired students to become ethical leaders who lead lives of significance in service to God and others. Surrounded by a peaceful mountain campus in Emmitsburg, Maryland, students are immersed in rigorous...

“…

The core curriculum along with the specific courses tied to my majors are challenging yet the professors make sure the students comprehend the information with before and after class assistance. There are tutors on campus to assist on a one-on-one...

” – Samuel from Middletown, MD

The University of Alaska Anchorage is a public institution in the city of Anchorage. The campus is surrounded by lakes, ponds, and mountains, but has a trail system that  connects the university to midtown Anchorage. Top fields of study include...

“…

The learning experience is amazing. The professors know what they are teaching and enjoy teaching it. Some of them are born and raised in Alaska so they can help you out. The other students are a big help as well.

” – Haley from Kodiak, AK

At Franklin Pierce University, you’ll find a tight-knit community of dreamers and doers who can help you achieve anything. You’ll receive a contemporary, far-reaching liberal arts education that’s financially accessible and be supported by a network...

“…

From my meeting with some of the professors and sitting in on some classes I feel that the teachers will push you to learn. This school may not be Harvard but that may mean that the teachers care a little more about how smart you are, not just how...

” – Kate from Hopedale, MA

Nestled along the coast of Tampa Bay on Bayboro Harbor, the University of South Florida’s St. Petersburg campus offers bachelor’s degree programs in the arts and sciences, business, and education. The St. Petersburg campus is working towards being...

“…

attending usfsp has been quite an experience. my teachers and peers are so wonderful and are more beneficial than i thought they would be. i just love it here!

” – Elna from Valrico, FL

Ripon College is a private, 4-year institution established in the state of Wisconsin. The college features a unique core curriculum, the Catalyst, which consists of five courses throughout each student’s first three years that are designed to teach...

“…

The professors help me and want me to get every piece of information I can get out of the class that I am enrolled in. They try to do anything they can to make sure I am learning everything possible

” – Kyla from Oshkosh, WI

Sweet Briar College is a 4-year women’s college in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Sweet Briar grants undergraduate degrees in 16 academic majors. Outside of the classroom, Sweet Briar is home to a renowned equestrian program and features the...

“…

The level of difficulty in the courses vary just like they would anywhere. Most of the professors give you a syllabus for the semester and expect you to stay on top of the deadlines. If you struggle in a class there is this place called the ARC where...

” – Jessica

Located along central Florida’s I-4 tech corridor, Florida Polytechnic University is the state’s only STEM-focused public university. Florida Poly confers undergraduate degrees in six STEM fields of study and is also home to a Division of Arts...

“…

Outstanding facilities.

” – Tyler from Minneola, FL

Malone University is a private, Christian, liberal arts institution located in Canton, OH. Founded in 1892, Malone has grown to offer 91 undergraduate and 12 graduate programs, some of which are available online. Standing out from the 50-plus majors...

“…

The courses are invigorating and interactive. It seems like the teachers are enjoying you and so you enjoy being there. Classes are tough, but if your heart is in the right place, you get a lot out of classes. It's not like high school where subjects...

” – Lillian from Martinsville, VA

Founded in 1787 thanks to a donation from Benjamin Franklin, Franklin & Marshall College is a 4-year liberal arts college in southeast Pennsylvania. Franklin & Marshall grants undergraduate degrees in 60 academic fields of study. For students who...

“…

Franklin & Marshall is about the liberal arts experience. You are not there to become a doctor, or a lawyer or a business professional; you are there to learn, to create, and to explore. This school emphasizes that this is the ONE CHANCE in your life...

” – Ashley from Burlington, VT

Founded in 1834, Franklin College is a private liberal arts and sciences college located in Franklin, Indiana, about 20 miles from downtown Indianapolis. Franklin's 207-acre campus features 50 majors to choose from that uphold the FC common set of...

“…

Franklin College is providing me with an amazing experience. The professors have proven to want to help me be better at what I want to do in my career. I have zero complaints about the college.

” – Timothy from Camby, IN

Northwest University is a private, Christ-centered institution established in Kirkland, Washington. Full-time undergraduate students and faculty at Northwest are required to attend chapel three times weekly in order to earn spiritual life credit each...

“…

The curriculum is amazing! The profs are amazing as well they challenge your studies!

” – Teresa from Grandview, WA

Parkland College is a two-year community college based in Champaign, Illinois, that confers associate’s degrees and workforce certificates. Serving 54 communities across central Illinois, Parkland offers over 100 degree and certificate programs and a...

“…

Parkland is a really great way to get accustomed to the college life! From my personal experience thus far, the professors truly care about their students and are passionate about the subjects they teach. They are there to help and answer any...

” – Lauren from Champaign, IL

Alma College is a private liberal arts institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. It is a residential college based in Alma, Michigan, in the state’s Lower Peninsula. Alma also operates an ecological research area in Vestaburg, which houses...

“…

The classes here are VERY intense. Be prepared to study A LOT. But also, be prepared to be intelligent and actually have something knowledgeable to contribute to conversations. I like being able to talk about something meaningful with my parents now...

” – Kristin from Charlotte, MI

Originally founded as a women’s college by the Sisters of Mercy, Georgian Court University is a coeducational Catholic liberal arts university in southern New Jersey. GCU hosts colleges of Nursing, Business, Education, and Arts & Sciences conferring...

“…

i would rate georgian court university a 9 on a scale of 10 being the best. when i had transferred to gcu, i was treated with the up-most respect and my needs were accommodated. having been at gcu only two months, my experience here has been amazing...

” – Christina from Jackson, NJ

Chartered in 1845, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor is a Christian school in central Texas and the state’s oldest continuously operating college. UMHB grants bachelor’s degrees in 51 academic programs and all first year students are enrolled in a...

“…

Besides certain classees that EVERYONE takes, the class size is very small, even at the Freshman level. So you will get individualized attention if you need it. The University finds the best professors, every class I have had, the professor has...

” – Ray from Belton, TX

The University of Missouri-Kansas City is a 4-year public school and the largest university in Kansas City. Part of the University of Missouri system, UMKC offers undergraduate degrees in over 125 academic fields of study and is home to an honors...

“…

Most teachers care about you learning, however sometimes don't expect you to know much since we aren't at Mizzou I guess so that offends me esp considering I could have went to Mizzou if I wanted.

” – Jasmine from Kansas City, MO

Gustavus Adolphus College is a private liberal arts college closely affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The school combines interdisciplinary and international programs into all areas of study. A majority of students...

“…

The classes offered at Gustavus are well structured but also very fun and interesting. Most of the classes are based off of class participation which allows for students to give their opinions and ask questions even in the middle of a lecture....

” – Ashlie from Duluth, MN

Marian University is a private Catholic institution located in Indianapolis, Indiana. The curriculum at Marian University combines classroom theory with practical work experience. The school is home to a wetland and lowland forest, the Indy Cycloplex...

“…

Marian is a great place where all the professors make you feel wanted. You're definitely not just a number at this University.

” – Meredith from Indianapolis, IN

Yeshiva University is a private, Jewish institution established in New York City. The college consists of four campuses throughout Manhattan and the Bronx, with an additional campus located in Israel. All of YU’s campuses are home to facilities...

“…

With Judaic studies in the morning and secular courses in the afternoon, your day is filled with inspiring and useful information.

” – Adam from Brooklyn, NY

Founded in 1890, Keuka College is a liberal arts school based in Keuka Park, New York. The Field Period at Keuka College is a required program chosen by the student that explores their interests through an internship, cultural experience, artistic...

“…

Keuka College offers great diversity because of there multicultural affairs office and activities. Also, due to their programs outreaching to Chinese students, there is no limit to the amount of ne ideas and cultures you can learn.

” – Devin from Orchard Park, NY

College placeholder image

Northwood University is a private, 4-year institution established in Midland, Michigan. The college maintains a number of regional education facilities in Michigan, Kentucky, Indiana, Texas, California, and online in order for students to complete...

“…

When I visited they said the professors had a one year contract and if they weren't performing well that they were gone. The school also has many varying options of degrees and classes to take that cover a wide variety of interests.

” – Christian from Zeeland, MI

St. John Fisher College is an independent instution located in Pittsford, NY, that run on the Catholic tradition. St. John's 164-acres of campus house five colleges, has both a Math and Writing Center, and is within 7 miles of Rochester. The "College...

“…

As an upcoming senior, I've realized just how much I've learned in the past few years. Knowledge goes beyond the classroom though and I was able to attend Macquarie University in Australia during my junior year. All my financial aid transferred which...

” – Josue from Rochester, NY

At Carroll, you’ll be challenged and inspired — in our classrooms and in the rugged beauty of Montana’s Rockies. You’ll find community — where our Catholic traditions invite people of all beliefs to pursue lives of meaning. You’ll focus on more than...

“…

Because Carroll College is a Liberal Arts School, students are required to take classes in many different fields of study including science, math, english, theology, and even philosophy. These classes are excellently taught and leave you with a...

” – Palma from Helena, MT

College placeholder image

Auburn University at Montgomery is a public institution based in Montgomery, Alabama. It is a designated military-friend School and has a “selective” admissions process. AUM has one of the largest study abroad programs in the state and takes students...

“…

Even though AUM isn't one the most well known colleges, I have to say that this is very good school to attend to further your education as well as begin it. AUM has some of the best accredited professors who are very educated in their particular...

” – Shannon from Tyler, AL

The University of Illinois is a top-ranked school with a rich legacy of innovation and impact. Founded in 1867 and located in central Illinois, this public institution is home to 11 academic communities and over 150 majors. Its flexible programs and...

“…

The professors are great! They are very accommodating and always willing to help. They are also very educated on the topics they teach making learning more interesting.

” – Samantha from Palatine, IL

Lewis & Clark College is a 4-year liberal arts college in the southwest hills of Portland. Lewis & Clark confers undergraduate degrees in 29 academic majors and 27 minors and all first year students are enrolled in a 2-semester course called...

“…

I find most of my classes interesting, and all of them challenging. I've learned things about subjects that I never thought would interest me!

” – Maelia from Ashland, OR