Is 1500 a Good SAT Score? Colleges That Accept a 1500 SAT

You may be wondering if 1500 is a good SAT score. Scoring 1500 places you well above the national average and within reach of many selective colleges across the U.S. This score shows strong academic readiness and can strengthen your application, whether you're applying to a research university, a liberal arts college, or a STEM-focused school.

This article highlights accredited colleges that accept a 1500 SAT score, focusing on those with higher acceptance rates and affordable tuition instead of highly selective colleges. Each school offers unique opportunities such as online programs, strong faculty support, and access to internships or research.

Is 1500 a Good SAT Score?

A 1500 on the SAT is widely considered an outstanding score. It ranks well above the national average and demonstrates strong academic skills in both math and evidence-based reading and writing.

With a 1500, you're likely to fall within or above the middle 50% score range at many top colleges and public universities. This score can improve your chances of admission, qualify you for merit-based scholarships, and support honors program consideration.

How Is the SAT Scored?

The SAT is scored on a total scale of 400 to 1600. It includes two main sections: Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW), each scored between 200 and 800. These two section scores are added together to create your total score.

In addition to the main scores, the SAT includes subscores that break down performance on specific skill sets, such as algebra or command of evidence. Colleges typically focus on your total and section scores when reviewing your application, especially in competitive admissions.

What Percentile Is 1500 on the SAT?

A 1500 on the SAT usually places you in the 97th to 98th percentile nationally. That means your score is higher than nearly all students who took the test. This percentile demonstrates exceptional performance and signals to colleges that you're well-prepared for college-level work.

Percentiles can help colleges compare applicants within a broader context. If you're applying to selective universities, this high percentile may give your application an extra edge, especially when combined with a strong GPA, rigorous coursework, and strong personal achievements.

Will Colleges Accept a 1500 SAT Score?

Colleges across the country, including highly selective universities, readily accept a 1500 SAT score. Many schools have test-optional admissions, but choosing to submit this score can improve your application's competitiveness. A 1500 often exceeds the middle range of accepted scores at many public and private colleges.

It can also boost your chances for merit aid or honors program admission. If you're applying to less selective or open-access colleges, a 1500 is well above their typical range. You might also consider colleges that accept everyone if you're looking for guaranteed admission.

Is 1500 a Good SAT Score for Ivy League?

A 1500 SAT score is considered competitive for Ivy League schools, though it typically falls at the lower end of their average admitted score range. Ivy League schools often report middle 50% SAT ranges from about 1450 to 1570.

While a 1500 won't guarantee admission, it demonstrates strong academic potential. To stand out, you'll still need an exceptional GPA, rigorous courses, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays.

Should I Retake the SAT if I Got a 1500?

Retaking the SAT after scoring 1500 is generally not necessary unless you're applying to a school where average scores exceed 1550 or you're seeking competitive scholarships that require higher benchmarks. A 1500 already places you in the top few percent of test-takers, and improving it may not significantly change your application's strength.

Instead, focus on other areas like GPA, personal statements, and extracurriculars. These elements often carry more weight, especially at test-optional schools. For most students, a 1500 is more than enough to remain competitive across top-tier institutions.

Colleges That Accept a 1500 on the SAT

A 1500 is a very good SAT score that puts you well above the national average and within range for admission at some of the most competitive colleges in the country. These colleges that accept a 1500 SAT score offer a mix of academic rigor, research opportunities, and campus resources that can support your long-term goals.

1. Auburn University

Auburn evaluates first-year applicants with or without test scores, depending on the applicant's preference. With an average SAT range of 1210 to 1380, submitting a 1500 could place you in the top tier of applicants and improve your eligibility for merit scholarships.

Located in Alabama, Auburn offers a classic campus experience with a focus on academic rigor and student engagement. Hands-on learning opportunities are available in agriculture, business, and health sciences, with select online courses that add flexibility to your studies.

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

At Hunter College, which is a part of the City University of New York (CUNY), applicants are evaluated using GPA, coursework, and optional test scores. With an SAT range of 1220 to 1453, a 1500 score would strengthen your chances, particularly for competitive majors like nursing or psychology.

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Hunter gives students access to a vibrant academic and professional environment. Flexible scheduling is supported by online and hybrid course options, ideal for commuters or working students.

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 Oklahoma

The University of Oklahoma focuses most on GPA and coursework for admissions, with test scores considered optionally. SAT scores between 1160 and 1320 are typical among admitted students, so a 1500 could help highlight academic readiness and qualify you for additional scholarships.

From undergraduate research to mentoring programs, students are encouraged to pursue both intellectual growth and career readiness. The school also supports personal development through leadership opportunities and one-on-one advising.

SAT requirements: 1160 to 1320 average

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

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

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. University of Alabama

As a test-optional school, the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa lets students decide whether to submit SAT scores. Though GPA plays a leading role in admissions, submitting a 1500 could enhance your application and increase access to merit-based scholarships.

The university offers flexible degree formats, including online programs in nursing, commerce, and more. The campus combines tradition and modern academic resources to support student success.

SAT requirements: Test optional

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

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

Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati considers both academic and extracurricular factors through a test-optional process. Students who do submit scores typically fall between 1160 and 1350, so a 1500 would clearly stand out and could improve your admissions profile.

The school's co-op model integrates paid work with academics, and online options are available for added flexibility. Its urban location also gives students access to internships and professional networks across Ohio.

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: HLC

6. University of Arizona

With a test-optional policy in place, the University of Arizona places greater emphasis on GPA and high school course performance. While a strong SAT score is not required, a 1500 can enhance applications for competitive majors or scholarship consideration.

Students can explore both on-campus and online programs in psychology, business, and science-related fields. Located in Tucson, the university is also home to research centers and cultural programs that enrich student life.

SAT requirements: Test optional

Average in-state tuition: $13,900 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $43,100 per year

Accreditation: HLC

7. University of Colorado Boulder

At the University of Colorado Boulder, students are admitted through a holistic process that includes GPA, course rigor, and optional SAT scores. The reported SAT range is 1180 to 1390; a 1500 score may help you stand out, particularly in competitive programs.

Known for innovation and research, the university offers strong programs in environmental science, aerospace, and liberal arts. Hybrid and online course formats allow students greater scheduling flexibility.

SAT requirements: 1180 to 1390 average

Average in-state tuition: $14,606 to $20,678 per year

Average out-of-state tuition: $44,748 to $48,736 per year

Accreditation: HLC

8. Michigan State University

While Michigan State University (MSU) is test-optional, students with an SAT score in the 1500 range would fall well above the average (1100 to 1310) and likely receive additional attention during the review process. The university considers academic performance, course rigor, and leadership activities.

With programs in STEM, social science, and business, MSU encourages students to pursue research and internships. Online degrees are available in fields such as education and nursing.

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

9. University of Minnesota Twin Cities

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities' admissions process is competitive, with a middle SAT range of 1320 to 1470. A 1500 SAT score falls at the top end of the spectrum, making you a strong candidate for both admission and institutional scholarships.

The school is known for research in health, engineering, and public affairs, and offers flexible online options. Students benefit from the campus's proximity to industry and cultural institutions in Minneapolis.

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 admits students through a holistic review process, and submitting a 1500 SAT could position you well above the average admitted range of 1120 to 1310. This private institution specializes in STEM and offers programs in aerospace, marine science, and IT.

The campus provides small classes and access to research from the start. Fully online programs are available for students seeking technical degrees with scheduling flexibility.

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

Each college listed above was selected based on a combination of academic quality, accessibility, and relevance to students with a 1500 SAT score. We considered institutions that not only accept or welcome high-scoring applicants but also offer strong academic and professional pathways across a variety of fields.

• Accreditation: All colleges included are regionally accredited, ensuring their degrees are widely recognized and meet rigorous educational standards.
• Admissions requirements: Schools were selected based on their compatibility with a 1500 SAT score, test-optional policies, and emphasis on GPA and coursework.
• Program reputation: Institutions were considered for their academic strengths, student outcomes, and the variety of on-campus or online programs that support long-term success.

Explore Online Degree Programs

Whether you want to pursue a traditional on-campus experience or prefer the flexibility of remote learning, accredited colleges across the U.S. offer degree options that meet your academic and professional goals. Use Learn.org to discover online and hybrid programs that match your interests and qualifications.