How do colleges view an SAT score of 980?

Hi everyone, I recently got a 980 on my SAT and I'm a bit stressed about how it looks for college applications. Are there any colleges that still accept applicants with scores around this range? Any help or advice is appreciated.

A 980 SAT score may be considered low for highly competitive universities, but there are still many colleges that accept applicants with scores in this range. What is most important is that your target schools are a good fit for your academic profile, including your GPA, extracurricular activities, and other factors in addition to your test score.

While you might not be eligible for top-tier schools with a 980 SAT score, you still have options at numerous small liberal arts colleges, regional public universities, and some larger state schools that place more emphasis on a holistic application review. By looking for schools with averages or middle 50% test score ranges that include your SAT score, you can find institutions that are more likely to accept you.

One strategy to maximize your chances of admission is to research schools that are test-optional, which means they do not require SAT or ACT scores as part of the application process. At test-optional schools, you can choose not to submit your SAT score; these colleges will then place more weight on other aspects of your application, such as your grades, essays, extracurricular involvement, and recommendations.

If you're committed to improving your SAT score, consider retaking the exam after taking some time to study and practice, using resources like Khan Academy or test-prep books. By increasing your score through retaking the SAT, you might open up more college options and potentially qualify for merit-based scholarships.

At the end of the day, remember that your SAT score is only one factor in your college application. Make sure to focus on maintaining good grades, getting involved in meaningful extracurricular activities, and writing strong application essays, as these pieces will also contribute to your overall application strength.