Wondering what a 660 SAT score means for your college prospects? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know.
- Understanding the SAT Scoring System: Learn how the SAT grading structure works, from its split into Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing to the 1600 score cap.
- Good or Bad Score?: Get insight into whether a 660 SAT score is competitive and where it falls in comparison to other test-takers.
- Colleges and Scholarships: Discover colleges that accept your score and potential scholarship opportunities you could unlock.
Let’s unravel the implications of a 660 SAT score and how to improve if needed.
Is 660 a Good SAT Score?
When it comes to standardized tests like the SAT, the term “good” is subjective and largely dependent on individual goals, aspirations, and target institutions. However, let’s evaluate a 660 score in a broader context.
According to the data available from the College Board’s annual report, a 660 score falls significantly below the national average, which is approximately 1050. This score would likely put you in the bottom 30% of SAT test takers nationwide, meaning that out of 100 test-takers, around 70 would score higher than you.
Educational Aspirations and 660 SAT Score
Considering educational aspirations greatly determines whether a 660 score might be sufficient. This score could be acceptable, or even competitive at:
- Community colleges: While these institutions traditionally have open admissions policies, a 660 score can strengthen your academic profile. If your GPA is strong, a 660 score could work in synergy.
- Certain state universities: Some less competitive or regional state universities may accept a 660 score, especially if coupled with high school achievement, strong recommendation letters, and a successful personal essay.
While the 660 score is not per se ‘good’ on a universal scale, it might be good enough depending on your college goals. It’s crucial to remember that the SAT score is just one part of your overall college application and some schools don’t even require SAT scores for admission decisions.
Is 660 a Bad SAT Score?
Again, terms like “bad” are relative when it comes to standardized test scores. But, for students with burning ambitions to enter exclusive top-tier institutions, a 660 score could pose significant challenges.
660 SAT Score and Selective Schools
Students often dream of studying at a place like Harvard, Princeton, Stanford, or MIT. However, these highly selective colleges generally expect SAT scores in the top percentile. In fact, these institutions, including the Ivy League, often see median SAT scores exceeding 1400.
Here are the average SAT scores at some highly selective schools:
- Harvard University: 1460-1580
- Princeton University: 1440-1570
- Stanford University: 1420-1570
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): 1490-1570
In comparison, a 660 score falls significantly short of these numbers. But remember, these are highly selective universities and are not representative of all universities.
While a 660 score considered ‘low’ for these schools, it should be noted that even a perfect SAT score does not guarantee admission since these colleges review the applications holistically.
660 SAT Score Percentile
The SAT score percentile ranks show how well a student has performed compared to others. Essentially, they indicate the percentage of students whose scores fall below a particular score.
Given the data from the College Board, a 660 SAT score places you in the bottom 30th percentile of all test takers. That means that 70% of all students who took the test scored higher than 660. Given this percentile ranking, it’s clear that a 660 SAT score is not competitive by national standards.
However, interpret these percentiles in context. While a 660 score may not be competitive for Ivy League Schools, it could still be acceptable or even competitive for many community colleges or less-selective state universities.
660 SAT Score to ACT
If you’re more comfortable with the ACT structure or format, you may wonder how a 660 score on the SAT translates to an ACT score.
The SAT and the ACT are both standardized tests used for college admissions in the United States, but they have different scoring systems. The SAT is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600, while the ACT is scored on a scale from 1 to 36.
According to most conversion charts:
- A 660 SAT score corresponds to an approximate ACT score of 14-15.
- An ACT score of 14-15 is at the 13th to 19th percentile of all ACT test takers.
By this conversion, a student with a 660 SAT is likely to achieve an ACT score of around 15. Remember, just like with the SAT score, an ACT score is just part of your college application, and most schools look at other elements like your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, and personal essays.
Should I Submit a 660 SAT?
The decision to submit a 660 score hinges primarily on the standards and expectations of the institutions you are targeting. It also depends on how the rest of your application looks like.
Target Schools and 660 SAT Score
- Selective Institutions: At highly selective colleges such as Yale, UCLA, and Princeton, where the average SAT scores are significantly higher, a 660 SAT score would be viewed unfavorably. Submitting such a score might be detrimental unless other aspects of your application are exceptionally strong.
- Test-Optional Schools: Some schools have adopted a test-optional or test-blind policy, where the SAT/ACT scores are not mandatory for admission. In those cases, it may be best not to submit a 660 score and instead focus on enhancing other elements of your application.
Your Overall Application
Consider the strength of the other parts of your application. A strong overall application can offset a low SAT score. Keep in mind:
- GPA: High GPAs can sometimes counterbalance lower SAT scores. If your GPA is strong, you may still be considered a competitive applicant despite a 660 score.
- Recommendation letters and Essays: Exceptional recommendation letters and compelling essays can convince the admissions committee of your potential, despite a lower SAT score. Highlight your strengths, accomplishments, and dedication.
The decision to submit a 660 SAT score is a strategic one that should reflect your overall educational goals, target institution matches, and other application strengths.
660 SAT Score Colleges
A 660 score may not be competitive for highly selective colleges, but several institutions would consider an application with this score. Here are some colleges that have accepted students with a similar SAT score:
- California State University – Bakersfield: This public university in California reported an average SAT score range of 780 to 920 for admitted students.
- Johnson & Wales University: At this private, career-focused university, the middle 50% of enrolled students had an SAT score range from 830 to 1080.
- Kent State University at Trumbull: This regional campus of Kent State University in Ohio reported an average SAT score range of 880 to 1100 for admitted students.
These are just a few examples and are by no means exhaustive. Each college maintains unique admission standards, and SAT score isn’t the sole deciding factor.
660 SAT Score Scholarships
It’s important to remember that scholarships aren’t strictly based on SAT scores. While higher scores often correlate with merit-based scholarships, other factors are considered as well. These could include:
- Academic Achievements: Your GPA, AP/IB course load, class rank, and subject-specific achievements can contribute to scholarship eligibility.
- Leadership and Community Service: Your involvement in school clubs, community service, and leadership roles can be grounds for certain scholarships.
- Unique Talents and Interests: If you have unique skills, talents, or interests (in arts, athletics, etc.), there may be scholarships designed specifically for students like you.
Keep in mind that local and smaller scholarships often have less competition, and your 660 score might be less of a hindrance for these opportunities.
Tips to Improve Your 660 SAT Score
If you’re unsatisfied with your 660 score, take heart – there are many strategies to improve:
Understand Your Weak Points
Look at the section-wise breakdown of your scores. This will help you identify areas where you lost the most points and need to focus on improving.
Create a Regular Study Schedule
Consistency is key. Set aside regular, daily study time is much more effective than last-minute cramming.
Use Quality Study Materials
The official SAT study guide, reputable online SAT prep sites, or good SAT prep books can provide useful practice questions and explain strategies.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Limited timed practice tests can familiarize you with question formats and improve your time management skills.
Consider a Prep Course or Tutor
If you can afford it, a good SAT prep course or a private tutor can provide personalized help and strategies.
Remember, perseverance and determination are the crucial elements in improving your SAT score.
For more information about improving your SAT score we recommend checking out: The College Board Website
SAT Scores 400 to 1600
Conclusion
While a 660 score falls below the national average, it doesn’t mean the end of your college aspirations. Your SAT score is just one aspect of your college application. Many schools take a holistic approach to admissions, considering other factors like your GPA, recommendation letters, essays, and extracurriculars.
Moreover, it’s entirely possible to improve your SAT score with focused preparation and strategic studying. If your dream college requires a higher score, feel empowered knowing that you have the resources and the ability to reach that goal.
Ultimately, remember that a score like 660 doesn’t close all doors. Every student has many strategies, resources, and possibilities available to achieve their college goals.