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Top Colleges That Accept a 1050 SAT Score | Great Schools You Can Get Into

Last Updated on Jul 19, 2025

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The SAT Exam is a test that many colleges use to see how ready you are for college-level work. It checks your skills in reading, writing, and math. A 1050 SAT score is a little above the national average SAT score, which is around 1024. This means you scored better than 48th to 58th percentile of the students who sat for the exam. While a 1050 may not be high enough for very competitive schools, it’s still a strong score that gives you many college options—especially at public and private universities that have flexible admissions. Many schools also look at your GPA, activities, and essays, not just your SAT score. So, if you got a 1050, don’t worry—you still have a great shot at getting into a good school and starting your college journey strong.

🚀 Use Testbook’s SAT Score Calculator to Find Your SAT Scores! 

Is 1050 a good SAT score for the First Time?

A 1050 SAT score is slightly above the national average, making it a strong starting point for your first attempt. It shows that you have a good grasp of the skills tested in reading, writing, and math. Many public and private colleges accept students with this score, so you already have some great options. If you’re aiming for more competitive schools, you can always study and retake the test. Most students improve their score the second time around with practice.

What Colleges Accept a 1050 SAT Score?

With a 1050 SAT score, you can get into many good colleges across the U.S. Schools like Texas State University, University of North Texas, and Eastern Michigan University often accept students with this score. These colleges offer strong academic programs, fun campus life, and chances to grow. Your GPA, activities, and essays also matter in the application. So, even with a 1050, you have a solid chance at many public and private schools if your full application is strong.

📌 What is the SAT Calculator Policy? Read Here!

How Does a 1050 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 1050 SAT score is slightly higher than the national average. In 2024, the average SAT score was around 1024, so a 1050 puts you a little above most test-takers. This means you scored better than many students, which can help your college applications. It shows that you’re ready for college-level work. While it might not be high enough for top schools, it’s still a strong score and gives you plenty of options for good colleges across the country.

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Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1050?

If you got a 1050 on the SAT, it might be worth taking the test again—especially if you're a junior. A 1050 is a good starting point, but raising your score by even 100 points can give you more college options and help your applications stand out. Most students who retake the SAT improve their scores by 60–70 points. Look over your test to find your weak areas, then focus your studying there. Take practice tests with a timer, use SAT prep books, or join a test prep class at school to help boost your score.

If you're a senior, you might not have much time before applications are due, but some schools accept scores from summer or early fall SATs. If retaking the test isn’t possible, focus on making the rest of your application strong. Write a great personal essay, get teacher recommendations, and ask your counselor to review your work. You can also apply to test-optional colleges that focus more on your grades, essay, and activities instead of SAT scores.

📌 Find out How Long is the SAT?

1050 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 1050 SAT score is about the same as a 20 on the ACT Exam. Both scores are a little above average and show that you're ready for college-level work. Colleges use SAT and ACT scores in a similar way, so if you're not sure which test to take, knowing the score match can help. Try taking a practice test for both exams to see which one you’re more comfortable with and which helps you get a better score.

📌 Know about SAT vs ACT: Which Test Should You Take for College Admissions?

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 1050 SAT Score

A 1050 SAT score can qualify you for merit-based scholarships at many colleges. While the amount may vary, some schools reward students in this score range with financial aid or academic awards. Here are a few examples:

  • Texas State University – Offers merit scholarships like the President’s Honor Scholarship for students meeting GPA and SAT criteria.
  • University of Southern Mississippi – Provides Academic Merit Scholarships starting with a 1050 SAT and a solid GPA.
  • Northern Arizona University – Awards the NAU Merit Scholarship for residents and non-residents with a 1050+ SAT.
  • Eastern Michigan University – Offers the Education First Opportunity Scholarship based on GPA and test scores.
  • Middle Tennessee State University – Provides Guaranteed Academic Scholarships to eligible students with scores starting at 1050 SAT.

📌 Read about ACT to SAT Conversion: Convert SAT Scores Into ACT Scores

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 1050 SAT Score

A 1050 SAT score is slightly above average and gives you a good chance of getting into many colleges. While it might not be enough for super competitive schools, it can still open doors to solid public and private universities. These schools offer strong academic programs, fun campus life, and financial aid options. Below is a list of 15 great colleges where a 1050 SAT score can help you get accepted.

University Name

SAT Score Range

Average GPA

ACT Score Range

Acceptance Rate

Tuition Fees (In-state)

Graduation Rate

Enrollment

Sam Houston State University

970–1140

3.3

19–24

85%

~$8,536

52%

21,000+

Portland State University

1010–1230

3.4

20–25

93%

~$9,105

48%

22,000+

San Francisco State University

950–1150

3.4

19–24

94%

~$7,484

53%

27,000+

Marshall University

910–1120

3.5

20–25

97%

~$8,128

45%

13,000+

Radford University

950–1150

3.2

19–24

93%

~$11,916

49%

9,000+

East Carolina University

1040–1200

3.3

19–24

88%

~$7,239

59%

28,000+

Texas State University

1010–1180

3.4

20–25

81%

~$10,280

54%

38,000+

Georgia State University

1030–1260

3.4

20–25

76%

~$9,286

52%

34,000+

San Jose State University

1030–1260

3.4

20–25

67%

~$7,852

55%

32,000+

University of Hawaii at Manoa

970–1270

3.4

20–25

83%

~$11,304

58%

17,000+

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

890–1080

3.2

19–24

85%

~$3,418

41%

7,000+

University of Southern Mississippi

960–1150

3.3

19–24

96%

~$8,624

49%

14,000+

Western Carolina University

1010–1180

3.3

19–24

85%

~$4,452

55%

12,000+

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

980–1160

3.3

19–24

56%

~$10,382

47%

16,000+

California State University, Fresno

950–1150

3.3

19–24

58%

~$6,587

51%

24,000+

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and pertain to in-state students. Graduation rates and enrollment figures are based on the most recent data available from official university sources.

A 1050 SAT score gives you many college options to choose from. It shows that you're ready for college-level work and can get into a variety of good schools. While it may not meet the cutoff for the most selective colleges, it’s still a strong score. Keep building a strong application by focusing on your GPA, activities, and essays. With effort, you can find the right college that fits your goals.

Latest SAT Exam Updates

Last updated on Jul 19, 2025

-> The next SAT 2025 Exam is going to be held on June 7, 2025. The Regular Registration Deadline for the same has ended on May 22, 2025 and the late registration deadline ended May 27, 2025. 

-> According to the SAT Exam Schedule, the next fall semester SAT after the June exam is on August 23, 2025.

-> Top US Universities use SAT Scores to measure a student’s preparedness for college-level studies in a consistent and standardized way.

-> The candidates can attempt the SAT Practice Tests by Testbook that offers a suite of solutions for high schoolers who want to improve their SAT score above 1400.

Colleges That Accept 1050 SAT Score FAQs

 Yes, a 1050 SAT score is slightly above the national average (around 1024). It shows you’re ready for college-level work and gives you access to many public and private universities across the U.S.

Yes, many colleges offer merit-based scholarships for students with a 1050 SAT score, especially when paired with a solid GPA. Examples include Texas State University, Northern Arizona University, and University of Southern Mississippi.

 If you're a junior, retaking the SAT could be a smart move—most students improve their scores. Even a 100-point increase can expand your college and scholarship options. Seniors with limited time should focus on other strong parts of their application.

 A 1050 SAT score roughly equals a 20 on the ACT. Both scores are slightly above average and are considered acceptable by many colleges with flexible admissions.

Several colleges accept students with a 1050 SAT score, including Sam Houston State University, Georgia State University, Eastern Michigan University, and University of Louisiana at Lafayette, among others.

Absolutely! A 1050 SAT score opens doors to many reputable colleges with strong academic programs and student support services. Schools also consider GPA, essays, and extracurriculars in the admissions process.