Is an 870 SAT score good enough?

Hey everyone, I recently took the SAT and got an 870. I'm wondering if this is a good score or if I should consider retaking the test. What range of colleges might accept a score like this? Looking for some advice!

An 870 SAT score is below the national average, which is around 1060. While this score might not be considered strong for highly selective colleges, it is important to remember that various colleges have different expectations when it comes to test scores. There are schools that have more lenient test score requirements and take a holistic approach to evaluating applicants. That being said, retaking the SAT might be beneficial if you're aiming to improve your chances of admission at more competitive schools.

When looking for colleges that might accept an 870 SAT score, prioritize colleges with test-optional or test-blind admissions policies or schools that are less selective in their admissions process. Test-optional colleges do not require submitting SAT or ACT scores, and test-blind schools do not consider test scores at all. In such cases, the focus will be on other aspects of your application like your GPA, your extracurriculars, essays, and letters of recommendation.

It may be helpful to spend some additional time preparing for the exam if you decide to retake the SAT. Consider using resources like the official College Board practice materials, the Bluebook™ app, or free tools like Khan Academy. These resources can help you identify the areas where you need improvement and guide your study plan.

In summary, consider retaking the SAT to aim for a higher score. Research colleges that may be more accepting of lower test scores and consider applying to test-optional or test-blind schools as part of your college search process. Good luck!