Wondering if a 1320 SAT score fits the bill for your dream college?
- Understanding the SAT Scoring System: Let’s decode what a 1320 SAT Score signifies and how it’s calculated.
- Is 1320 a Good SAT Score?: Learn how a 1320 SAT score ranks against other test-takers and what opportunities it might bring.
- Improving Your 1320 SAT Score: If you’re aiming higher, discover effective ways to boost your SAT score from 1320.
Unravel every detail about the 1320 SAT score in this comprehensive guide.
Understanding the SAT Scoring System
To understand a score of 1320 on the SAT, one needs first to comprehend how the SAT scoring system works. The SAT contains two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing. Both of these sections are scored on a scale of 200 to 800 points, leading to a maximum possible score of 1600 points.
Each correct answer counts as one point towards your raw score in its respective section. There is no deduction for wrong answers (“guessing”) or skipping questions. The total raw scores in each section are then converted into a scaled score of 200-800 using a statistical process called “equating.”
Many students incorrectly believe that 1320 is the ‘lowest’ possible SAT score, but this is not the case. Instead, the lowest potential score is 400 (200 points in both sections). Therefore, a score of 1320 is almost two-thirds up the scale on the SAT.
The Role of Subscores
In addition to the overall composite score, you also receive subscores for specific areas within each section, providing more detail about your strengths and weaknesses. These subscores are in the 10-40 range for both the Reading and Writing and Language tests, and in the 200-800 range for the Math test. These subscores help colleges understand your proficiency in more precise areas of the SAT.
Composite Score and Percentile Rank
Your composite score is a combination of your Math section score and your Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score. Your percentile rank represents the percentage of students whose scores were lower than yours.
Is 1320 a Good SAT Score?
A 1320 SAT score places you between the 86th to 90th percentile of all test-takers. This result signifies that you scored higher than approximately 86% to 90% of students, which would traditionally be considered a ‘good’ score.
How Good is ‘Good’?
The definition of a ‘good’ score, however, is relative to your specific goals and the colleges you are targeting. The nationwide average SAT score is around 1050 – 1100, making a score of 1320 significantly higher than average.
For many state universities and less competitive private colleges, a score of 1320 is likely to make a competitive applicant. Moreover, many scholarship opportunities specifically target students who score above the 85th percentile, so a score of 1320 could potentially open the way for financial aid.
The Ivy Leagues and Top-Tier Universities
However, if you are aiming for Ivy League schools or other top-tier institutions, you might find that a 1320 is below their average admitted SAT score. For instance, the median SAT score of admitted students at universities like Harvard, MIT, or Princeton is well above 1400.
Is 1320 a Bad SAT Score?
While a 1320 SAT score is significantly higher than the national average, there are certain contexts in which it might be considered subpar.
Should You Aim Higher?
If you dream of studying at a prestigious university, a 1320 might put you at a disadvantage. Admission into top-tier colleges is extremely competitive, and institutions such as MIT, Harvard, or Princeton often expect SAT scores in the upper percentiles (above the 90th percentile).
With the increasing competitiveness of college admissions, a 1320 score may also fall under the average SAT score for the more selective state universities or leading private colleges.
1320 SAT Score Percentile
As previously mentioned, an SAT score of 1320 usually places you between the 86th and 90th percentile of all test-takers. This means that you have performed better than the majority of students who took the test.
Opportunities in this Percentile
Being in this percentile rank can provide numerous opportunities. Many colleges consider the SAT score an essential factor in their admission process. Therefore, scoring in this high percentile can potentially increase your chances of getting accepted into many reputable schools.
Furthermore, some scholarships are specifically geared towards students who score within certain percentile bands. So a 1320 score might put you in the running for certain types of financial aid.
How Hard Is It to Get a 1320 SAT Score?
Achieving a 1320 on the SAT is not an easy task, and it should not be taken lightly. It requires a solid foundation in high school math and English, as well as a strong work ethic for studying and mastering test techniques.
Preparation and Study
Getting a high score on the SAT typically involves extensive preparation. You can expect to dedicate several hours a week to studying for at least a couple of months before the test.
To effectively prepare for the SAT, you should:
- Familiarize yourself with the format of the test and the types of questions.
- Practice regularly using real SAT tests.
- Review your responses to understand your mistakes and how to improve.
- Consider using a tutor or a prep course if you struggle with self-study.
Skill Levels Needed
To score a 1320, you will need to have a strong command of high school mathematics up to algebra II and geometry. You’ll also need a good grasp of the English language, with the ability to understand complex texts and a robust vocabulary.
Rarity of a 1320 Score
Given that a 1320 score places you in the top 10-15% of all test-takers, it can be considered relatively rare. Only a fraction of students taking the SAT do achieve this score. However, with the right preparation and mindset, such a score can certainly be attainable.
1320 SAT Score to ACT
The ACT, like the SAT, is a standardized test used in college admissions. However, it uses a different scoring system. SAT and ACT scores correlate, though, so it is possible to translate your SAT score into an equivalent ACT score.
Understanding ACT Scores
ACT scores range from 1 to 36, with an average score around 20. As a comparison, SAT scores range from 400 to 1600, with an average score around 1060.
1320 SAT to ACT
A 1320 score approximately translates to an ACT score of 28. A score of 28 on the ACT would typically rank you in the 89th percentile. Meaning, you performed better than 89% of all ACT test-takers.
It’s crucial to note that the conversion isn’t an exact science but a rough estimate. Colleges generally acknowledge the correlation between SAT and ACT scores and primarily look at the percentile ranking rather than the raw numbers.
Should I Submit a 1320 SAT?
Deciding whether to submit your 1320 score can depend largely on the schools you’re targeting.
Considering Your School Choices
If you’re applying to state universities or less selective private colleges, a 1320 score will likely be competitive. However, if you’re aiming for top-tier institutions, this score may fall below their average enrolled SAT score.
For example, at UCLA, the middle 50% of admitted students received SAT scores ranging from about 1330 to 1530 – so a 1320 would be on the lower end of the scale. Meanwhile, at Yale University, the mid-range for SAT scores is significantly higher – typically between 1470 and 1570. In that context, a 1320 would be considered below average.
Timing and Other Score Factors
If this was your first SAT attempt and you have more time before application deadlines, you might consider retaking the test to improve your score. Also, remember that SAT scores are only one part of your application – colleges will also consider your GPA, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essay.
1320 SAT Score Colleges
Achieving an SAT score of 1320 can open the doors to numerous respectable colleges, although you may face more competition at Ivy League schools or top-tier institutes.
State Universities and Liberal Arts Colleges
Many state universities and liberal arts colleges accept students with average SAT scores around the 1250-1300 range. These might include schools such as:
- University of Texas, Austin
- University of Washington
- Georgia Tech
- University of California, Berkeley
- Lafayette College
- Denison University
Remember that admission rates can change year by year and are dependent on various factors – your SAT score is just one piece of the puzzle.
Ivy League and Top-Tier Universities
For Ivy League schools or top-tier universities, thousands of high-scoring students apply each year. The average SAT scores at schools like MIT, Harvard, or Princeton are often over 1480. So while a score of 1320 could be a good start, it’s crucial to pair it with an impressive high school record and other distinguishing qualities.
1320 SAT Score Scholarships
Receiving a 1320 on your SAT can make you eligible for various scholarships, as some programs require applicants to score above a certain percentile on their SAT.
- The National Merit Scholarship Program considers PSAT scores, which correspond strongly with SAT scores.
- Certain states offer scholarships to top-performing students, like the Bright Futures Scholarship in Florida.
- Many colleges automatically consider applicants for merit-based scholarships, with some specifically targeting high SAT scores.
Always check individual scholarship criteria, as some might require more than just a high SAT score, such as a solid GPA or specific extracurricular activities.
Tips to Improve Your 1320 SAT Score
While a 1320 is a strong score, it’s natural to aim higher, especially if you’re targeting top-tier universities. Here are some tips to boost your SAT score:
- Understand the Test Format: Familiarize yourself with the structure, types of questions, and timing of the test.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Regularly work through practice tests under timed conditions.
- Analyze Your Mistakes: Make sure you understand why you answered a certain question wrong.
- Brush Up On Fundamentals: Strengthen any weaknesses in your basic skills in math and English.
- Take a Test Prep Course: Consider investing in a test prep course or hiring a tutor, especially if you have trouble studying alone.
For more information about improving your SAT score we recommend checking out: The College Board Website
SAT Scores 400 to 1600
| 400 | 410 | 420 | 430 | 440 |
| 450 | 460 | 470 | 480 | 490 |
| 500 | 510 | 520 | 530 | 540 |
| 550 | 560 | 570 | 580 | 590 |
| 600 | 610 | 620 | 630 | 640 |
| 650 | 660 | 670 | 680 | 690 |
| 700 | 710 | 720 | 730 | 740 |
| 750 | 760 | 770 | 780 | 790 |
| 800 | 810 | 820 | 830 | 840 |
| 850 | 860 | 870 | 880 | 890 |
| 900 | 910 | 920 | 930 | 940 |
| 950 | 960 | 970 | 980 | 990 |
| 1000 | 1010 | 1020 | 1030 | 1040 |
| 1050 | 1060 | 1070 | 1080 | 1090 |
| 1100 | 1110 | 1120 | 1130 | 1140 |
| 1150 | 1160 | 1170 | 1180 | 1190 |
| 1200 | 1210 | 1220 | 1230 | 1240 |
| 1250 | 1260 | 1270 | 1280 | 1290 |
| 1300 | 1310 | 1320 | 1330 | 1340 |
| 1350 | 1360 | 1370 | 1380 | 1390 |
| 1400 | 1410 | 1420 | 1430 | 1440 |
| 1450 | 1460 | 1470 | 1480 | 1490 |
| 1500 | 1510 | 1520 | 1530 | 1540 |
| 1550 | 1560 | 1570 | 1580 | 1590 |
| 1600 |
Conclusion
Navigating the world of SAT scores can be challenging, but remember that a score of 1320 is, by most standards, an excellent achievement. This score places you in the top 15 percent of all test-takers, which opens a multitude of opportunities in a broad range of colleges and scholarships.
While it may not land you a place in Ivy League or top-tier institutions without other strong achievements, a 1320 score is a substantial stepping stone. But remember, while SAT scores are essential, they are just one facet of your college application – your talents, grades, extracurriculars, and personal essays matter too.
Lastly, remember that every college and university is different, and what might be a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ score can vary based on the institution. So, always aim to give your best, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help or resources to ensure you achieve your goals.