The SAT is a college entrance examination and a nationwide test for high school students in reading, writing, and math. The scoring scale runs from 400 to 1600, with the average test taker receiving a composite result between 1050 and 1100. A 950 falls in the 31st percentile, short of what most colleges and universities would like to see on applications for admission.
Is A 950 SAT Score (31st Percentile) Good?
With a 950 SAT score, you’re eligible to apply to a lengthier list of colleges compared to scores in the 800s. But it’s not a score that’s considered competitive. If we take a closer look at the percentiles, it’s easier to understand.
Upwards of 2 million students take the SAT each year. The average score is between 1050 and 1100, so earning a 1050 puts you at the 50th percentile — meaning a 1050 is better than a full half or 50% of all other test takers. Likewise, a 950 on the SAT puts you at the 31st percentile, meaning you score higher than 31% of all test takers, which is a bit below that halfway mark that traditionally makes college applicants competitive.
Since one of the purposes of the SAT is to make it possible to choose from a wide variety of higher education institutions, a 950 only partially accomplishes that mission.
What Colleges Can I Get Into with an SAT Score of 950?
There are a few colleges and universities that will consider a score of 950 and we’ve put together a list of them below. Be aware that an SAT score is only one part of the college admissions process, but all of these institutions have established a precedent of admitting students with a 950.
Should I Retake the SAT with a 950 Score?
Yes, it’s definitely worth retaking the SAT with a score of 950. You’re so close to hitting that national average between 1050 and 1100 that it's definitely worth another go-around. On average, when students retake the SAT, they improve by between 60-70 points!
To reach that 1000 mark, it would only take getting four more questions correctly. To hit 1050, you’d need to answer only eight more questions correctly. It’s 100% doable, right? So hit the books and try again!
If you’re a junior or senior early in the fall semester, consider retaking the SAT, especially knowing the fact that adding a mere 100 points to your score would increase the number of schools you’re eligible to apply to, as well as increase your competitiveness as a candidate.
The best way to improve a score of 950 is to devote more time to studying and preparing for the retake. Become even more acquainted with the exam by picking up a book of practice SATs or downloading a sample test online. Be sure to use a timer while taking the tests to get a better sense of how to budget the time allowed. Additionally, take note of all difficult questions to find out where to concentrate your studies.
For seniors later in their fall semester, it may be difficult to retake the SAT in time for college application season, but there are a handful of colleges that will consider a 950 SAT. Assess your list of colleges and see where you fall on their 25th to 75th percentile scales for acceptance—it may be that simply shifting your safety schools to match schools, your list can still mostly work. Another good route to take is to research test optional colleges, especially if the rest of your academic performance is good. Since they don’t consider standardized test scores when reviewing applications, they put much more focus on GPA, personal statement, and recommendation letters.
You can also consider applying to the local community college. Most feature an open admissions policy, an SAT score of 950 won’t be a factor in the application process. After enrolling, spend the next two years establishing a good academic record with the goal of eventually transferring to a 4-year year college.
950 SAT to ACT Equivalent
A 950 SAT score is equivalent to an 18 on the ACT. Keep in mind that there are some key differences between these two tests, including in timing, tools used, and even content. If the SAT doesn’t seem to fit your testing style, it might be worthwhile to take a practice ACT and see how it treats you.
Scholarships for a 950 SAT Score
Scholarships with requirements in SAT and ACT score or GPA are referred to as scholarships based on “merit.” You’ll likely have a difficult time earning merit scholarships with a 950 SAT score, but there are plenty of other types of scholarships you can search for!
Search for scholarships based on your extracurriculars, life circ*mstances, and passions — you can even do it using our extensive scholarships database. You’ll want to build up a nice little nest egg to offset the cost of tuition, so get started today!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 950 a good SAT score?
When it comes to saying a score is “good” or “not-so-good,” it isn’t just hitting a specific number. The goal is to earn a score that makes you a competitive option at a wide variety of schools, as well as your specific ideal school. A 950 doesn’t quite give you as many college options as we’d like, but there are schools you’ll be competitive at.
What colleges can I get into with a 950 SAT score?
While you’re not a competitive applicant at the majority of schools, there are still several you’re a good candidate for, including , Bowie State University, and Clayton State University.
What percentile is a 950 SAT score?
A 950 SAT score is equivalent to a percentile of 31, meaning you scored higher than 31% of all test takers.
What is the ACT equivalent of a 950 SAT score?
A 950 SAT score is equivalent to an 18 on the ACT. Keep in mind there are a few key differences between these tests that don’t make them a 1:1 match, though.
What scholarships can you get with a 950 SAT score?
Earning scholarships for an SAT or ACT score, or GPA, is typically referred to as “merit aid” or a “merit scholarship.” A 950 SAT score isn’t likely to make you eligible for merit awards, but there are tons of other types of scholarships, including for extracurriculars, life circ*mstances, and passions!
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