Quick Links

Home / SAT Exam / Top Colleges That Accept 1550 SAT Score

Top Colleges That Accept 1550 SAT Score | Ivy Leagues & More

Last Updated on Jun 09, 2025

IMPORTANT LINKS

SAT Test Dates 2025 Average SAT Score Good SAT Score SAT® Score Calculator What's a Good SAT Score for Ivy League? Highest SAT Score ACT to SAT Conversion SAT Superscore SAT Preparation Courses SAT Test Sections SAT Free Practice Test How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges Grammar Rules SAT Preparation Tips How to Prepare for Both SAT & ACT? SAT Reading Tips PSAT vs SAT SAT Vocabulary SAT Myths Subject Tests SAT Score Range SAT Math Preparation SAT Changes Digital SAT Pacing Why Should You Take Both SAT & ACT? Should You Guess On SAT & ACT? SAT Writing Section SAT Writing Tip How to Reschedule the SAT How to Write an SAT Essay? SAT Percentiles & Score Ranking SAT Practice Questions with Answer SAT Test Scores Guide How Long Is The SAT When Should You Take the SAT? Digital SAT Format SAT Preparation Guide SAT vs ACT SAT Tutoring Course SAT Registration SAT Syllabus SAT Eligibility SAT Books SAT Admission Ticket SAT Calculator Policy SAT School Day SAT Test Optional Top Colleges That Accept a 1590 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1570 SAT Scor Top Colleges That Accept a 1600 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 1510 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1540 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1520 SAT Score Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 1500 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1410 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1400 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1390 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1380 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1370 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1360 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1350 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1310 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1300 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1290 SAT Score Colleges that Accept 1580 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1280 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1270 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 1260 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1490 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1250 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1240 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1230 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1220 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1560 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1550 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1530 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1210 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1200 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1190 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1180 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1170 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1110 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1100 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1090 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1080 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1070 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1060 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1450 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1440 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1430 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1420 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1480 SAT Scor Top Colleges That Accept 1470 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1460 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1050 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1340 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1040 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1030 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1020 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1010 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1330 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1320 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 1000 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 990 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 980 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 970 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 890 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 960 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 830 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 950 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 820 SAT Scor Colleges That Accept a 940 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 880 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 870 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 930 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 920 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 800 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 790 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 780 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 770 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 760 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 750 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 740 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 910 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 900 SAT Score Colleges That Accept an 850 SAT Score Colleges That Accept an 840 SAT Score Colleges That Accept an 810 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 730 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 720 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 690 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 700 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 710 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1160 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 860 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 660 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 650 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 640 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 630 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 620 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 610 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 600 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 590 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1150 SAT Scor Top Colleges That Accept a 1140 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1130 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1120 SAT Score

Scoring an SAT 1550 is an impressive scholarly achievement. With the highest SAT score being 1600, a 1550 puts you firmly in the top 1% of SAT test-takers across the country. This exceptional score reflects your scholarly prowess and test-taking abilities, making you a top contender at the most selective colleges and universities in America. Here in this guide, we discuss the best colleges to accept a 1550 SAT score, contrast it with national averages, review scholarship opportunities, and assist you in deciding whether you should retake the test.

Is 1550 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

Absolutely. A 1550 is an outstanding first-time SAT score. It puts you in the uppermost tier of applicants, opening the doors to Ivy League schools and other top-ranked institutions. With this score, you’ve already proven your academic preparedness, allowing you to focus on other vital application components like essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendations. Many students take the SAT multiple times and still don’t achieve this score. You're already ahead of the curve. Tip: Use this momentum to refine your college list and explore competitive scholarships that reward academic merit.

Attempt the SAT Practice Test to Improve your SAT Scores!

Ace your SAT Preparation with 50+ Full Digital SAT-Like Tests, 3000+ Practice Questions, Topic-Level Notes, Desmos Calculator Integration, Personalized Dashboard and Custom Study-Planners.

What Colleges Accept a 1550 SAT Score?

With a 1550, nearly every elite university in the U.S. is within reach. Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, along with top private universities like MIT, Stanford, and Caltech, actively admit students with scores in this range. While admission is not guaranteed—since these schools consider holistic factors—a 1550 will place your application in a highly competitive light.

Get a List of All Colleges That Superscore the SAT!

How Does a 1550 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

The national average SAT score for the class of 2024 was 1024. It is generally around 1050, so your 1550 represents about a 500-point deviation from the mean. This huge difference puts you in the top 1% of all test-takers and puts you very much in control of your own destiny when it comes to getting into college. Stat Insight: Admissions directors at highly competitive institutions seek out signals of readiness for college academics and intellectual capacity—your 1550 provides both.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1550?

In most cases, no. A 1550 is already an elite score. Unless you’re aiming for a perfect 1600 for personal reasons or targeting extremely competitive scholarships that require a 1600, there's no significant strategic benefit to retaking the test. Instead: Invest your time in strengthening other parts of your college application—like leadership roles, research, or community service.

1550 SAT to ACT Equivalent

A 1550 on the SAT is equivalent to an ACT score of 35–36. This places you at the top of the ACT scale, making you just as competitive at ACT-preferred institutions. Colleges that accept the SAT also accept equivalent ACT scores for admissions.

College Scholarships That Accept a 1550 SAT Score

A 1550 SAT score qualifies you for some of the most generous merit-based scholarships across the U.S. Here are a few notable programs:

University of Alabama – Presidential Elite Scholarship: Full tuition, housing stipend, and research.
University of Southern California (USC) – Trustee Scholarship: Full-tuition merit-based scholarship to outstanding students, such as those who achieve SAT scores of 1550+.
Vanderbilt University – Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship: Full tuition plus summer stipend given for academic achievement.
Duke University – Robertson Scholars Leadership Program: Full ride scholarship that covers tuition, room and board, and enrichment funds.
University of Georgia – Foundation Fellowship: A highly competitive public university scholarship, frequently given to high SAT achievers.
Princeton University – Need-Based Aid: Though not a merit award, students with an SAT score of 1550 frequently receive substantial packages based on financial need.

Colleges That Accept a 1550 SAT Score

Below is a list of top universities where a 1550 SAT score falls well within or above the 75th percentile range:

Harvard University

Renowned for its rigorous academics and influential alumni, Harvard consistently ranks as one of the best universities globally.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Harvard University
SAT Score Range	1460-1580
Average GPA	4.18
ACT Score	34-36
Acceptance Rate	4.6%
Tuition Fees	$51,904
Graduation Rate	98%
Enrollment	31,000

Stanford University

Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford is a leading institution in innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Stanford University
SAT Score Range	1510-1580
Average GPA	3.96
ACT Score	32-35
Acceptance Rate	4.3%
Tuition Fees	$56,169
Graduation Rate	94%
Enrollment	15,878

Yale University

Renowned for its elite law school and globally ranked faculty, Yale provides a superior academic experience with a robust emphasis on humanities and social sciences.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Yale University
SAT Score Range	1500-1560
Average GPA	4.19
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	6.6%
Tuition Fees	$59,950
Graduation Rate	97%
Enrollment	12,000

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

A global leader in technology and engineering, MIT is at the forefront of scientific innovation and research.

Statistic	Value
University Name	MIT
SAT Score Range	1520-1570
Average GPA	4.17
ACT Score	34-36
Acceptance Rate	6.7%
Tuition Fees	$53,790
Graduation Rate	94%
Enrollment	11,000

California Institute of Technology (Caltech)

Caltech leads in science, engineering, and technology with a limited student enrollment and an emphasis on high-impact research.

Statistic	Value
University Name	California Institute of Technology
SAT Score Range	1530-1580
Average GPA	4.19
ACT Score	35-36
Acceptance Rate	6.4%
Tuition Fees	$56,862
Graduation Rate	93%
Enrollment	2,200

Princeton University

A highly selective Ivy League school, Princeton is known for its close-knit community and commitment to undergraduate education.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Princeton University
SAT Score Range	1510-1580
Average GPA	4.07
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	5.8%
Tuition Fees	$53,890
Graduation Rate	97%
Enrollment	8,500

Columbia University

Situated in New York City, Columbia offers a diverse academic environment and access to one of the world’s most dynamic urban settings.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Columbia University
SAT Score Range	1510-1560
Average GPA	4.12
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	5.0%
Tuition Fees	$64,380
Graduation Rate	96%
Enrollment	31,455

University of Chicago

Famous for its rigorous academics and research programs, UChicago is known for fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.

Statistic	Value
University Name	University of Chicago
SAT Score Range	1500-1580
Average GPA	4.48
ACT Score	34-36
Acceptance Rate	6.2%
Tuition Fees	$63,029
Graduation Rate	94%
Enrollment	17,000

University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)

A prestigious Ivy League school, UPenn blends strong business, health, and liberal arts programs with a focus on interdisciplinary learning.

Statistic	Value
University Name	UPenn
SAT Score Range	1500-1570
Average GPA	3.9
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	8.4%
Tuition Fees	$59,974
Graduation Rate	96%
Enrollment	21,000

Duke University

A top-tier university known for its strong programs in research, health, and business, Duke offers a vibrant academic and social community.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Duke University
SAT Score Range	1520-1570
Average GPA	4.13
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	8.3%
Tuition Fees	$61,331
Graduation Rate	95%
Enrollment	15,000

Northwestern University

With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Northwestern is a leading university offering excellent programs in arts, sciences, and communication.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Northwestern University
SAT Score Range	1500-1560
Average GPA	3.94
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	9.1%
Tuition Fees	$60,276
Graduation Rate	94%
Enrollment	21,000

Johns Hopkins University

A global leader in medical research and public health, Johns Hopkins provides a rich academic environment with a focus on scientific inquiry.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Johns Hopkins University
SAT Score Range	1530-1570
Average GPA	3.9
ACT Score	33-35
Acceptance Rate	9.2%
Tuition Fees	$63,000
Graduation Rate	94%
Enrollment	24,000

University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)

One of the top public universities, UC Berkeley offers exceptional academic programs across a wide range of disciplines, particularly in science and technology.

Statistic	Value
University Name	University of California, Berkeley
SAT Score Range	Optional
Average GPA	3.89
ACT Score	29-35
Acceptance Rate	14.8%
Tuition Fees	$14,226 (In-State) / $44,008 (Out-of-State)
Graduation Rate	92%
Enrollment	42,327

New York University (NYU)

Located in the heart of New York City, NYU offers a diverse range of programs and a vibrant urban campus experience.

Statistic	Value
University Name	New York University
SAT Score Range	1480–1570
Average GPA	3.7
ACT Score Range	32–35
Acceptance Rate	12.8%
Tuition Fees	$56,500
Graduation Rate	85%
Enrollment	58,226

Rice University

Known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education and research, Rice offers a collaborative environment in Houston, Texas.

Statistic	Value
University Name	Rice University
SAT Score Range	1510–1560
Average GPA	4.0
ACT Score Range	34–35
Acceptance Rate	8.0%
Tuition Fees	$52,070
Graduation Rate	92%
Enrollment	7,124

A 1550 is highly competitive but does not guarantee admission to ultra-selective colleges. Make sure to have strong recommendation letters, leadership roles, and personal essays. With a 1550 SAT score, you're well-positioned to compete at the most prestigious colleges in the U.S. The focus now should be on crafting a well-rounded application. Use your score as a launching pad for exploring scholarships, developing your personal statement, and researching best-fit colleges. Remember, admissions are holistic—show who you are beyond your numbers.

Latest SAT Exam Updates

Last updated on Jun 9, 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 1550 SAT Score FAQs

Is a 1550 a Good SAT Score?

Yes! A 1550 SAT score puts you in the top 1% of test-takers nationally. It's an elite score, and it qualifies you for virtually all top universities in America, including Ivy League and highly selective private institutions.

What Colleges Accept a 1550 SAT Score?

With a 1550 SAT, you are extremely competitive for Harvard, Stanford, MIT, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Caltech, and the University of Chicago. Top public schools such as UC Berkeley and the University of Michigan will also consider you an top candidate.

Should I Retake the SAT if I Scored a 1550?

In most cases, no. A 1550 is an outstanding score. Unless you’re aiming for a perfect 1600 for personal reasons or for a specific scholarship, it’s better to focus on strengthening the other parts of your college application, like essays, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters.

How Does a 1550 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

The national average SAT score is generally 1050–1060. A 1550 is almost 500 points higher, so you really stand out to college admissions officers and scholarship committees.

What is the ACT Equivalent of a 1550 SAT Score?

A 1550 SAT approximately equates to a 35 on the ACT. Both scores reflect near-perfect academic preparedness and are extremely competitive for any college or scholarship program.

Is There a Scholarship for a Student with a 1550 SAT Score?

Yes! A 1550 SAT can get you numerous high-end merit scholarships. Some examples are the USC Trustee Scholarship (complete tuition), Vanderbilt's Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship (complete tuition), and the University of Alabama's Presidential Elite Scholarship (complete tuition and additional funds).