Is 1450 a Good SAT Score? Colleges That Accept a 1450 SAT

If you're wondering, is 1450 a good SAT score, the answer is yes. It's well above the national average and competitive for many selective colleges. A 1450 can strengthen your application at public and private universities, open up scholarship opportunities, and help you qualify for honors programs. While top-tier schools like the Ivy League may require even higher scores, many respected institutions across the U.S. accept applicants with a 1450 SAT.

Below, we have a list of colleges that fall within or below this SAT range but still offer quality academics and support services. All schools are regionally accredited and offer programs that align with common student goals, such as flexibility, affordability, and strong student outcomes. Instead of focusing on elite or high-cost options, we've selected colleges that are more accessible and may offer better value for your investment.

Is 1450 a Good SAT Score?

A 1450 SAT score is considered excellent. It places you well above the national average and signals strong academic readiness for college-level work. Most students with this score rank in the top 5% to 10%of all SAT test-takers.

While it doesn't guarantee admission to every school, it can strengthen your application at many competitive public and private universities. You may also qualify for merit-based scholarships or honors program consideration.

How Is the SAT Scored?

The SAT is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600. This total score combines two main section scores: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) and Math. Each section is scored between 200 and 800.

The scores are based on the number of correct answers (raw score), which are then converted to scaled scores through a statistical process. The College Board uses this conversion to ensure fairness across different test dates. Your total score gives colleges a snapshot of your academic strengths in reading, writing, and math.

What Percentile Is 1450 on the SAT?

A 1450 SAT score typically places you in the 96th percentile. This means you scored better than 96% of students who took the test. Percentiles show how your score compares to others and help colleges evaluate your academic performance in a national context.

For example, if you're applying to selective public universities, a 1450 puts you well above the average admitted student. If you're aiming for highly selective or Ivy League schools, it may be slightly below their median SAT ranges.

Will Colleges Accept a 1450 SAT Score?

Yes, most colleges will accept a 1450 SAT score, and many will consider it highly competitive. It's above the average score at most U.S. universities, including several flagship public institutions and private colleges.

A 1450 can help you meet admission standards and may increase your eligibility for scholarships. While some schools have become test-optional, submitting a strong score like this can still benefit your application. If you're looking for more flexible or open-admission schools, you can also apply to some of the colleges that accept everyone.

Is 1450 a Good SAT Score for Ivy League?

A 1450 SAT score is strong but may be slightly below the typical range for Ivy League schools. Most Ivy League institutions report middle 50% SAT scores between 1450 and 1570, meaning a 1450 puts you at the lower end of their admitted student range.

While it doesn't disqualify you, these schools are extremely competitive and place a heavy emphasis on academic rigor, leadership, extracurriculars, and essays. If you're applying with a 1450, a high GPA and standout accomplishments can help strengthen your application and improve your chances.

Should I Retake the SAT if I Got a 1450?

Whether to retake the SAT depends on your college goals. If you're aiming for ultra-selective schools like the Ivy League, raising your score closer to 1500 or above could help. But for most competitive public universities and many private colleges, a 1450 is already well within or above their average admitted range.

If your GPA, activities, and essays are strong, retaking the SAT may not be necessary. Consider your target schools' score ranges and whether a higher score could meaningfully improve your admissions or scholarship chances.

Colleges That Accept a 1450 on the SAT

A 1450 is a very good SAT score that places you well above the national average and can help you qualify for admission at a wide range of colleges, including some selective public universities. If you're searching for colleges that accept a 1450 SAT score, the list below includes schools with competitive admissions policies that still welcome scores in this range.

1. Auburn University

Auburn University offers both test-optional and test-required admission paths. If you submit a 1450 SAT score, you'll stand out among applicants and may qualify for merit scholarships.

The university focuses on a student's GPA, academic rigor, and overall class performance. Freshman applicants are reviewed holistically, and submitting test scores is encouraged for students with strong academic records.

Auburn has a growing number of online offerings, including programs in business and education. Its student-centered resources include academic advising, career development, and campus engagement opportunities.

SAT requirements: 1210 to 1380 average

Average in-state tuition: $6,659 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $18,011 per year

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

2. City University of New York Hunter College

The City University of New York (CUNY) Hunter College reviews freshman applicants based on their GPA, course rigor, and optional test scores. A 1450 SAT score is at the top of the admitted student range and may increase your chances for competitive majors and scholarships.

Located in Manhattan, Hunter offers in-person and online learning options, including remote courses in public health, education, and social work. The college supports students through career services, advising, and research programs, making it an accessible choice for students seeking strong academics and an urban campus.

SAT requirements: 1220 to 1453 average

Average in-state tuition: $6,930 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $18,600 per year

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

3. University of Alabama

Students applying to the University of Alabama are not required to submit SAT scores, but doing so can improve your chances for merit-based scholarships and certain program placements. A 1450 is well above the school's average range, which may make your application more competitive.

You'll also want to demonstrate a GPA of at least 3.0 in core academic subjects. The college performs a holistic review, including extracurriculars and leadership experience. In addition to its Tuscaloosa campus, the university offers flexible online degrees in nursing, commerce, and criminal justice.

SAT requirements: 1130 to 1350 average

Average in-state tuition: $11,684 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $34,542 per year

Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati (UC) offers test-optional admissions, allowing you to choose whether to submit your SAT scores. A 1450 falls above the middle 50% of accepted students, which can support your application for selective programs or scholarships. Admissions decisions also consider GPA, academic rigor, and extracurricular involvement.

UC encourages students to apply early for competitive majors. The university's co-op program, where students gain real-world experience while earning a degree, is nationally recognized and available in both traditional and online formats for select fields.

SAT requirements: 1160 to 1350 average

Average in-state tuition: $13,976 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $14,576 to $29,310 per year

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Ohio State University

Ohio State University (OSU) requires a strong academic record, with most admitted freshmen ranking in the top of their high school class. A 1450 SAT places you squarely within the average range for admitted students and can enhance your application.

OSU focuses on a combination of GPA, class rank, curriculum strength, and leadership or service experience. The university offers online and in-person degrees, with a growing number of remote options in health sciences, business, and education.

SAT requirements: 1340 to 1490 average

Average in-state tuition: $13,244 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $40,222 per year

Accreditation: HLC

6. University of Oklahoma

Strong academic performance in core subjects plays a major role in admissions at the University of Oklahoma (OU). A 1450 SAT score exceeds the school's average range and can improve your chances for scholarships and honors programs. While test scores are not required, submitting high marks can strengthen your overall application.

OU evaluates students on more than test scores; class rank, GPA, and curriculum rigor are important, as well as leadership, service, and personal achievements. You'll also find support programs for first-generation students and those interested in research or graduate studies.

SAT requirements: 1160 to 1320 average

Average in-state tuition: $10,440 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $45,600 per year

Accreditation: HLC

7. Michigan State University

Michigan State University (MSU) uses a holistic admissions process that considers GPA, test scores (if submitted), high school curriculum, and non-academic achievements. The school is test-optional, but submitting a 1450 SAT can strengthen your application, especially for competitive majors or merit aid.

MSU provides over 200 undergraduate programs and has online offerings in areas like health administration, supply chain management, and education. First-year applicants typically need a strong record in college prep courses and should aim for a GPA of 3.5 or higher.

SAT requirements: 1100 to 1310 average

Average in-state tuition: $16,118 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $43,502 per year

Accreditation: HLC

8. University of Connecticut

A 1450 SAT score puts you at the top of the middle 50% of students admitted to the University of Connecticut (UConn), especially for competitive programs. While UConn is test-optional, submitting high scores can strengthen your application and qualify you for additional scholarships.

Admissions also consider GPA, course rigor, and extracurricular activities. The university offers dozens of majors and has growing online and hybrid learning options, especially for business and health fields. Students can apply to the main Storrs campus or one of UConn's regional locations.

SAT requirements: 1320 to 1460 average

Average in-state tuition: $17,010 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $26,028 to $39,678 per year

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

9. University of Minnesota Twin Cities

With a 1450 SAT score, you'll fall at the higher end of the typical admitted student range at the University of Minnesota (UMN) Twin Cities. Admissions are selective and consider GPA, curriculum strength, class rank, and optional test scores. The university uses a holistic review process and encourages early applications for priority consideration.

While most undergraduate degrees are in person, UMN offers select online programs in areas like health sciences, business, and education. The school is also known for its research focus and access to internship opportunities in Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

SAT requirements: 1320 to 1470 average

Average in-state tuition: $18,094 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $40,556 per year

Accreditation: HLC

10. Florida Institute of Technology

Florida Institute of Technology (FIT) is a private STEM-focused university with a test-optional policy for most undergraduate applicants. That said, a 1450 SAT score places you above the typical admitted range and may help with merit-based financial aid. Admissions decisions weigh GPA, course difficulty, and personal accomplishments.

FIT offers fully online programs in fields like cybersecurity, aviation management, and business, designed for working professionals and remote learners. Students benefit from small class sizes, industry-aligned faculty, and research opportunities across science and engineering disciplines.

SAT requirements: 1120 to 1310 average

Average in-state tuition: $41,760 to $44,620 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $41,760 to $44,620 per year

Accreditation: SACSCOC

How We Rank Schools

To help students identify strong college options, we evaluate each school using key academic and admissions benchmarks. The colleges listed here admit students with a 1450 SAT score or higher, offer accredited degree programs, and provide resources to support student success. Our ranking considers multiple factors to ensure the schools are both academically credible and accessible.

• Accreditation: Each college is accredited by a recognized regional accrediting body, which ensures academic quality and access to federal financial aid.
• Admissions requirements: Schools were selected based on their SAT score ranges, with a focus on those that accept or welcome a 1450 SAT score, using both colleges' published information and College Board's as well.
• Program reputation: Colleges are evaluated based on national recognition, academic offerings, and the strength of support services that contribute to student achievement.

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