Is 1050 a Good SAT Score? Colleges That Accept a 1050 SAT

<p>If you're wondering if 1050 is a good SAT score, the answer depends on your college goals. While a 1050 may fall just below the national average, it still qualifies you for admission at a wide range of accredited colleges&mdash;especially public universities and regional schools with holistic or test-optional admissions policies. Many of these institutions also consider your GPA, high school coursework, and class rank, giving you more flexibility in the application process. </p> <p>This article highlights 10 colleges that accept a 1050 SAT score, including several with fully online or hybrid degree programs. These schools span various regions of the country and offer affordable tuition rates along with broad academic offerings. Whether you're pursuing your first degree or returning to college, these institutions provide accessible paths to higher education. </p> <h2 id="section---Is1050AGoodSATScore">Is 1050 a Good SAT Score?</h2> <p>A 1050 SAT score is close to the national average SAT score, putting you in a solid position for many public universities and less competitive private colleges. It's a score that shows you've met basic benchmarks in both reading and writing and SAT math--two key section scores assessed by the College Board. </p> <p>While it may not meet the standards for selective colleges, it still places you near the 50th percentile among test takers, meaning your performance was better than about half of students nationwide. This score can help you gain traction in the college admissions process, especially when paired with strong grades or extracurricular activities. </p> <h2 id="section---HowIsTheSATScored">How Is the SAT Scored?</h2> <p>The SAT is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600, with each of the two main sections, the math section and the eading and writing section, scored from 200 to 800. Your score report will also include details like section scores, subscores, and cross-test scores. These help admissions officers evaluate aspects of your application beyond just a composite number. </p> <p>The College Board also releases the average score and national percentiles, giving students insight into how their score compares with others. Understanding how the SAT test is scored can help you set a realistic target score as you plan for future test dates or review results from your PSAT. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatPercentileIs1050OnTheSAT">What Percentile Is 1050 on the SAT?</h3> <p>A 1050 typically falls just below the average SAT score, landing around the 49th or 50th percentile. That means your score is higher than nearly half of all test takers. This percentile position suggests that while you're not scoring in the top tier, you're still performing at a nationally average level. </p> <p>For students applying to non-selective schools or colleges with high acceptance rates, a 1050 is generally considered competitive. That said, some institutions may also weigh other parts of your application like GPA, personal essays, and course rigor when reviewing college application materials. </p> <h2 id="section---WillCollegesAcceptA1050SATScore">Will Colleges Accept a 1050 SAT Score?</h2> <p>Yes, many accredited colleges across the U.S. accept a 1050 SAT score. In fact, a wide range of public universities and moderately competitive private colleges consider a 1050 within their SAT score range for admitted students. These schools often use a holistic approach, reviewing your full academic background, extracurricular activities, and personal essays as part of their admissions process. </p> <p>Some schools may even be test-optional or a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_that_accept_everyone.html">college that accept everyone</a>, giving you even more flexibility. While your chances of admission may be lower at selective schools, a 1050 is a solid starting point for many target schools. </p> <h2 id="section---ShouldIRetakeTheSATIfIGotA1050">Should I Retake the SAT if I Got a 1050?</h2> <p>Whether you should retake the SAT depends on your target schools and overall academic goals. If your desired colleges list higher scores in their SAT score range, a retake could strengthen your college application. You might benefit from a more strategic study plan, including practice tests and focused test prep to improve weak areas. </p> <p>Raising your score by even 100 points can increase your competitiveness and open more doors for scholarships or admission. However, if your 1050 aligns with the expectations of the schools you're applying to (and the other aspects of your application are strong) you may not need to retake the exam. </p> <h2 id="section---CollegesThatAcceptA1050OnTheSAT">Colleges That Accept a 1050 on the SAT</h2> <p>Students with a 1050 SAT score have access to a wide variety of colleges that recognize both potential and academic readiness and offer many differing online degrees. For students comparing their results to national benchmarks, this score lands near the average on the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/what_is_a_good_sat_score.html">good SAT score scale</a>, meaning it can open doors to solid public universities and online opportunities. Read on to learn more colleges that accept a 1050 SAT score, ranked by affordability. </p> <h3 id="section---1.UniversityOfNorthCarolinaPembroke">1. University of North Carolina Pembroke</h3> <p>University of North Carolina (UNC) Pembroke offers first-year applicants a test-optional path as long as they meet minimum high school GPA and course requirements. Students must complete the required North Carolina high school graduation coursework, including English, math, science, and foreign language. </p> <p>While SAT scores can still be submitted to strengthen an application, they are not required. UNC Pembroke also supports distance learners with a selection of online undergraduate programs in business, criminal justice, and interdisciplinary studies. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $1,000 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $5,000 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) </li></ul><h3 id="section---2.WesternCarolinaUniversity">2. Western Carolina University</h3> <p>Western Carolina University allows applicants with a minimum 2.8 weighted high school GPA to apply without submitting standardized test scores. Students who do not meet this GPA threshold may still apply and will be evaluated holistically. </p> <p>The university emphasizes a strong academic record in college preparatory coursework. WCU offers a range of online undergraduate degrees, including programs in business administration, emergency and disaster management, and innovation leadership. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Not required with a 2.8 GPA </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $7,050 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $11,050 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC </li></ul><h3 id="section---3.SanFranciscoStateUniversity">3. San Francisco State University</h3> <p>San Francisco State University uses a test-optional policy and evaluates applicants based on GPA in college preparatory coursework. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for California residents and 3.0 for nonresidents. </p> <p>Students from participating Western states may qualify for reduced tuition under the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE). The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is a regional tuition savings program coordinated by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). Some example states included in this program are Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Oregon, with 15 participating in all. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $7,950 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $7,950 (WUE) or $20,450 (all other states) </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) </li></ul><h3 id="section---4.UniversityOfSouthernMississippi">4. University of Southern Mississippi</h3> <p>Located in Hattiesburg, MS, the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offers general admission to students with at least a 2.0 high school GPA and a minimum SAT score of 960. Applicants must also complete the state's required college preparatory curriculum, including core subjects like English, math, science, and social studies. Those who don't meet the minimum criteria may still be eligible for admission through a comprehensive review or by participating in USM's summer development program. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 960 minimum with 2.0 GPA </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $10,284 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $10,284 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC </li></ul><h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfHawaiIAtManoa">5. University of Hawai'i at Manoa</h3> <p>The University of Hawai?i at Manoa uses a test-optional admissions policy, though submitting scores can strengthen an application. Admission is based on a minimum 2.8 GPA and completion of high school coursework in math, science, English, and other core areas. Residents of Western states may qualify for reduced tuition through the WUE program. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $11,520 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $17,280 (WUE) or $33,552 (all other states) </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> WASC WSCUC </li></ul><h3 id="section---6.UniversityOfLouisianaAtLafayette">6. University of Louisiana at Lafayette</h3> <p>The University of Louisiana at Lafayette requires first-time freshman applicants to have a minimum SAT score of 1010 along with a qualifying GPA. Students must also complete the Louisiana Board of Regents' core high school curriculum, which includes English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language. Standard admission requires that SAT or ACT scores be submitted alongside the GPA, though test-optional consideration is available for students who meet certain academic benchmarks. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 1010 minimum </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $11,472 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $25,200 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC </li></ul><h3 id="section---7.PortlandStateUniversity">7. Portland State University</h3> <p>Portland State University (PSU) uses a test-optional admissions process that focuses on a student's high school GPA and completion of required college preparatory coursework. Applicants with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are guaranteed admission, while those below this threshold may still be considered through a comprehensive review. </p> <p>PSU participates in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), allowing eligible nonresident students from participating Western states to receive a significant tuition discount. Known for its focus on urban engagement and sustainability, Portland State offers a variety of flexible learning options, including fully online bachelor's degree programs in fields such as business and social science. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $13,000 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $14,093 to $34,600 (depending on state residency) per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) </li></ul><h3 id="section---8.TexasStateUniversity">8. Texas State University</h3> <p>Texas State University offers test-optional admission to students who rank in the top 75% of their high school graduating class. Located in San Marcos, the university evaluates applicants based on high school GPA and successful completion of the state's recommended college preparatory curriculum. While SAT scores are not required for admission, they are strongly encouraged for students seeking merit-based scholarships. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional for top 75% </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $12,220 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $24,520 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC </li></ul><h3 id="section---9.GeorgiaStateUniversity">9. Georgia State University</h3> <p>Georgia State University allows test-optional admission for students with a 3.4 GPA or higher. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic performance and the strength of the curriculum. GSU encourages students to submit test scores if available, especially for competitive majors. </p> <p>The university also considers factors such as rigor of coursework, grade trends, and class rank when reviewing applications. Located in downtown Atlanta, Georgia State is recognized for its strong programs in business, public health, and computer science, and it offers a variety of online undergraduate degrees to support flexible learning. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional with a 3.4 GPA </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $3,030 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $11,730 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC </li></ul><h3 id="section---10.EasternMichiganUniversity">10. Eastern Michigan University</h3> <p>Eastern Michigan University (EMU) provides an accessible admissions process for students with a minimum 2.5 high school GPA, offering a test-optional policy that removes the need for SAT scores. Rather than relying solely on numbers, EMU places emphasis on academic development over time, considering whether students challenged themselves with available coursework and maintained consistent performance. The university promotes student success through personalized advising, strong first-year support, and opportunities to start majors early. </p> <ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional with a 2.5 GPA </li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $16,478 per year </li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $16,478 per year </li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Higher Learning Commission (HLC) </li></ul><h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2> <p>The colleges featured on this list were selected to reflect a wide range of affordable, flexible, and accessible options for students with a 1050 SAT score. Each school meets key standards for academic quality and student support. </p> <ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Only schools with institutional accreditation from recognized agencies were included to ensure degree value and transferability. </li><li><b>Admissions requirements:</b> Colleges that accept a 1050 SAT score, or offer test-optional policies, were prioritized to reflect accessibility and inclusiveness. </li><li><b>Program reputation:</b> Consideration was given to universities known for supporting online learning, offering strong student outcomes, or maintaining positive reviews and rankings within their regions. </li></ul><h2 id="section---ExploreOnlineDegreePrograms">Explore Online Degree Programs</h2> <p>If you're ready to take the next step toward earning your degree, Learn.org offers the tools you need to explore your options. Use our resources to compare colleges, find test-optional schools, and discover online programs that match your goals.</p>