Is an 880 SAT score competitive?

Hey everyone, I recently took the SAT and got an 880. I know it's not the best score, but I'm unsure if it's considered competitive enough for college admissions. Should I retake the test or try to focus on improving my application in other ways?

An 880 SAT score is below the national average, which hovers around 1050, and will likely not be competitive for many colleges and universities. However, it could still be considered by some schools that have lower average scores, so it's important to research the institutions you're interested in to see where your score fits within their admitted student profile.

Given your current score, it might be beneficial to retake the SAT if you have enough time before the application deadlines. You can focus on improving your test-taking strategies, identifying areas of weakness, and studying more effectively. Utilize free resources like Khan Academy and the College Board's Bluebook™ app for practice tests and personalized study plans.

At the same time, don't forget that extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation can play a significant role in your college application. Even if your SAT score doesn't end up where you want it to be, a strong application with compelling and meaningful supplementary materials can make a difference.

Finally, keep in mind that many colleges have adopted test-optional policies in recent years, which means they do not require SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process. You can research test-optional schools and determine if any of them align with your academic and personal goals. That being said, if you can raise your SAT score, it would still be beneficial for merit-based scholarships and future opportunities.