Decoding your 520 SAT Score can be a key step to planning your college admissions journey.
- Understanding the SAT Scoring System: Knowing how the SAT is scored and understanding your 520 SAT Score percentile positioning can guide your preparations.
- Is 520 a Good SAT Score?: Unpack the significance of a 520 SAT score and how it fits into the college admissions landscape.
- Improving your 520 SAT Score: Learn actionable strategies to elevate your 520 SAT Score and open up further opportunities.
Prepare yourself for the journey from a 520 SAT Score to successful college admissions.
Understanding the SAT Scoring System
The Range of Scores
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) uses a scoring system that ranges from 400 to 1600. This range is a combined total of two main sections: Mathematics and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.
Each of these sections can earn a score between 200 and 800, with a higher score indicating a higher level of proficiency in the subject. The sum of the scores from both sections gives the overall SAT score, which can range from 400 (lowest possible) to 1600 (highest possible).
SAT Score Percentiles
In addition to raw scores, the SAT results also provide percentiles. The percentile is not directly about a student’s score but the comparison of this score to the scores of other test takers. So, if a student falls in the 50th percentile, for example, this means the student scored higher than 50% of test-takers.
The Role of SAT Scores for College Admission
It’s crucial to remember that while SAT scores do play a role in the college admissions process, they aren’t the only factor schools look at. Undergraduate college admissions also consider high school Grade Point Average (GPA), personal essays, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and interviews.
A 520 SAT Score
When it comes to an SAT score of 520, it’s important to remember that 520 is not the minimum score, it’s over 100 points more than minimum but is still towards the lower end of the spectrum. Despite that, having a score of 520 does not automatically close all doors as many factors aid in the final admission decision.
According to the SAT Composite Score Range, an SAT score of 520 falls in the lowest percentile (<1%). This means that the majority of the students taking this test have scored higher than 520.
Is 520 a Good SAT Score?
The term “good” is relative when it comes to SAT scores, as what may be seen as good in one circumstance might not be regarded as satisfactory in another. However, the merit of an SAT score can usually be gauged by assessing it against national averages and the admissions requirements of various colleges.
As per the College Board, which directs the SAT, the average SAT score for the class of 2019 was 1059. A 520 score is, therefore, much lower than the average SAT score on a national level, indicating that further preparation and an attempt to retake the test might be beneficial.
On the other hand, your personal goals and ambitions also play a role in determining whether an SAT score is “good”. If you’re aiming for admission in top-tier, selective schools, a 520 SAT score may not meet their competitive standards. However, various community colleges and less-selective universities might consider this score.
Is 520 a Bad SAT Score?
Equally, the term “bad” is also subjective when it comes to SAT scores. If a 520 SAT score falls short of meeting your goals—academically or professionally—then it could be seen as a disappointing score.
Having an SAT score of 520 may bring certain limitations in the college application process. Admissions to top-ranking Ivy League schools, for example, Harvard, MIT, Yale, or Princeton may be quite challenging with this score, as these universities tend to admit students with scores in the top five percentiles.
However, the most important thing is not to lose heart. It’s essential to set realistic expectations for an SAT score and understand the range of possibilities that lie ahead with your current score.
520 SAT Score Percentile
SAT Score Percentiles represent the percentage of students whose scores fall below a specific score. In simpler terms, a percentile rank shows the percentage of students you’ve scored higher than. For example, if you’re in the 95th percentile, it means that you’ve scored higher than 95% of the students who took the test.
Determining the percentile of a 520 score, one finds it at the lowest percentile. The exact figures can vary slightly from year to year, but a score of 520 generally falls below the 1st percentile. This percentile rank implies that more than 99% of the test takers scored higher than 520.
This specific score percentile can have its challenges. It may limit options for college admissions and scholarships that are heavily based on SAT scores. However, it’s important to remember that colleges always consider a holistic approach for admissions, taking into account other factors like GPA, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays.
520 SAT Score to ACT
The SAT to ACT Conversion
Students often wonder how their SAT score would convert if they had taken the ACT instead, or vice versa. Thanks to conversion charts developed using data from the College Board and ACT, Inc., students can see an accurate conversion of their scores.
According to the SAT to ACT conversion data, a 520 SAT score equates to approximately an 11 on the ACT.
Differences Between SAT and ACT
It’s important to note that there are differences between the SAT and ACT in terms of their structure, content and scoring systems. The SAT, for instance, emphasizes vocabulary more compared to the ACT, which is more aligned with the high school curriculum.
The ACT also includes a Science section, unlike the SAT. In terms of scoring, the ACT has a scale of 1-36, unlike the SAT’s 400-1600.
Just as being in a low percentile for the SAT, the equivalent ACT score also falls in the lower percentile, indicating that the majority of the students scored higher. Therefore, regardless of the test, additional preparation may be beneficial to increase opportunities for college acceptance and scholarships.
Should I Submit a 520 SAT?
Deciding whether to submit an SAT score of 520 primarily depends on the application requirements of the colleges you’re interested in. Each college or university has its own set of standards and expectations, and it’s essential to research those thoroughly.
Understand the College SAT Score Requirements
Firstly, consider the average SAT scores for admitted students and the minimum SAT score cutoff at the colleges to which you’re applying. Schools like UCLA, for example, have an average SAT score around 1400. Therefore, submitting a score of 520 for such universities may not help your application.
If the universities you’re interested in have a score range that surpasses 520, or if they explicitly state a minimum score cutoff higher than 520, it may be best to consider retaking the test or focusing on other aspects of your application that can stand out positively.
Leverage Other Accomplishments and Strengths
Secondly, consider your other accomplishments and strengths. Do you have an exceptional GPA, robust extracurricular activities, or compelling personal essays? These elements can make a significant impact on your application and serve as your strength.
The holistic admissions process many colleges follow allows your other strengths to potentially compensate for a lower SAT score. Admissions staff look at the entire application package — your SAT score is just one part of that.
As a rule of thumb, if your SAT score is below the average score for your dream colleges, consider retaking the exam if you believe you can improve your score with further preparation.
520 SAT Score Colleges
There are a number of colleges that consider SAT scores around 520. While it is towards the lower end of the SAT scores, it does not automatically eliminate you from being accepted into a good college. Here are some colleges where a 520 score is within the SAT score range of admitted students:
- Wiley College in Marshall, Texas
- Bennett College in Greensboro, North Carolina
- Livingstone College in Salisbury, North Carolina
- Paine College in Augusta, Georgia
- Voorhees College in Denmark, South Carolina
Remember, an applicant’s SAT score is not the only criteria for admission. A strong application might include a good high school GPA, excellent letters of recommendation, significant extracurricular activities or contributions to the community, and a persuasive personal statement.
520 SAT Score Scholarships
Scholarships often require meeting a certain academic threshold, which frequently includes SAT scores. With a 520 SAT score, it might be more challenging to gain scholarships that are heavily based on academic performance.
However, there are plenty of scholarships that focus on other criteria. These might include:
- Need-based scholarships: These are determined primarily by the financial circumstances of your family.
- Talent-based scholarships: These awards are for outstanding performance in a particular area, such as music, art, or athletics.
- Community service scholarships: These scholarships are awarded based on your contributions to your community.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that scholarships are not exclusively associated with high SAT scores. Many opportunities are available that reward various dimensions of a student’s profile.
Tips to Improve Your 520 SAT Score
If you’re unsatisfied with a 520 SAT score and desire to retake the exam, here are some actionable strategies to consider:
Focus on Understanding Concepts
SAT is a conceptual exam. Gain a firm understanding of the concepts that the SAT tests instead of focusing solely on rote memorization.
Regular and Consistent Practice
Practice regularly using SAT prep books, online resources, and practice tests. Set a study schedule and stick with it.
Develop Time Management Skills
The SAT is a timed test, and time management is critical. Develop your skills by timing yourself while doing practice problems to get a sense of your pacing.
Consider Hiring a Tutor or Joining a Prep Class
If self-study isn’t yielding the desired results, consider hiring a tutor or joining an SAT prep class to focus on your weak areas and receive personalized guidance.
Use Reputable Study Materials
Ensure you’re studying from reliable sources that offer updated, accurate content aligned with the current SAT version.
Most importantly, adopt a positive mindset and believe in your ability to improve your score.
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
While SAT scores indeed play an essential role in college admissions and scholarships, it’s crucial to understand that a 520 SAT score does not define your potential. Colleges consider a host of factors beyond test scores — your GPA, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and interviews leave an equally significant impression.
If a 520 SAT score doesn’t align with your academic or professional aims, remember that it’s certainly possible to improve. By focusing on understanding concepts, practicing regularly, and utilizing reliable study resources, you can enhance your SAT score to increase your opportunities for college acceptance and scholarships.
Stay committed to your academic goals, and maintain a positive attitude throughout. After all, your SAT score is only a single facet of your overall application and personal story.