Is 980 a Good SAT Score? Colleges That Accept a 980 SAT
Accredited colleges that accept a 980 SAT score usually have test-optional policies with affordable tuition costs and attainable admissions requirements.
If you're wondering, if 980 is a good SAT score, the answer depends on where you're applying. A 980 may not place you at the top of national percentiles, but it's still high enough to get into a range of accredited colleges across the U.S.—especially schools with flexible admissions policies or test-optional options. These universities often consider GPA, class rank, and course rigor alongside test results.
Below, we'll feature 10 colleges that accept a 980 SAT score. Each school meets national accreditation standards and provides clear admissions criteria and transparent tuition costs. If you're looking for accessible, affordable, and reputable pathways to a college degree, these institutions offer strong starting points.
Is 980 a Good SAT Score?
<p>A 980 on the SAT is slightly below the national average, but it's still a respectable score that can lead to admission at many accredited colleges. While it may not meet the cutoff for highly selective institutions, a 980 is well within the range for universities with more flexible admission standards.
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<p>Students with a 980 often qualify for admission if they also demonstrate a strong GPA, relevant coursework, or rank in the top half of their graduating class. Many schools also use holistic review processes, meaning a 980 SAT score won't automatically disqualify you from consideration.
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<h2 id="section---HowIsTheSATScored">How Is the SAT Scored?</h2>
<p>The SAT is scored on a scale from 400 to 1600, combining results from two sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) and Math. Each section is scored between 200 and 800 points.
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<p>A score of 980 reflects a combined performance across both sections, usually with relatively even scores in each. This total score is then used by colleges as part of their admissions review, sometimes alongside GPA, class rank, extracurriculars, and personal statements.
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<h3 id="section---WhatPercentileIs980OnTheSAT">What Percentile Is 980 on the SAT?</h3>
<p>A 980 SAT score typically falls in the 35th to 40th percentile, meaning you scored higher than about 35% to 40% of students who took the test. While this puts you slightly below the national average, it's not an uncommon score and still offers a viable path to college admission. Schools with inclusive admissions policies or test-optional alternatives may focus more on your coursework and grades, reducing the weight of your test percentile..
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<h2 id="section---WillCollegesAcceptA980SATScore">Will Colleges Accept a 980 SAT Score?</h2>
<p>Yes, many accredited colleges do accept students with a 980 SAT score. In fact, several public universities and regional institutions list 980 as a qualifying score for automatic or assured admission, especially when paired with a decent GPA or class rank. The <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_that_accept_everyone.html">colleges that accept everyone</a> have open enrollment policies or minimal standardized testing requirements. Whether you're interested in on-campus learning or online degree programs, you'll find many schools that are accessible to students scoring in this range.
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<h2 id="section---ShouldIRetakeTheSATIfIGotA980">Should I Retake the SAT if I Got a 980?</h2>
<p><a href="https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/dates-deadlines?ef_id=CjwKCAjwgb_CBhBMEiwA0p3oOGq5MEMs8BGXxiHAds0NbG8dXEHYX3KmYvpY3XSktMp6eY_NnAqq1hoCCD4QAvD_BwE:G:s&s_kwcid=AL!4330!3!686783635860!b!!g!!sat%20test%20locations!20914178589!159093428762&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20914178589&gbraid=0AAAAAD-Skkzuj_U4YQgYw-39xjVBWUFlj&gclid=CjwKCAjwgb_CBhBMEiwA0p3oOGq5MEMs8BGXxiHAds0NbG8dXEHYX3KmYvpY3XSktMp6eY_NnAqq1hoCCD4QAvD_BwE">Retaking the SAT</a> depends on your college goals. If you're aiming for schools that have higher average scores, a retake could help boost your chances of admission or even qualify you for merit-based scholarships. However, if you're targeting colleges that accept a 980 SAT score, or if the schools on your list are test-optional, retaking the exam may not be necessary.
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<p>Consider how much time you have to study, whether you think you can improve your score, and what your prospective schools require. In some cases, a stronger GPA or personal essay may carry more weight than a slightly higher test score.
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<h2 id="section---CollegesThatAcceptA980OnTheSAT">Colleges That Accept a 980 on the SAT</h2>
<p>For students wondering if a 980 is a good SAT score, these institutions demonstrate that such a score can meet admission requirements. The list includes colleges that accept a 980 SAT score and offers a range of tuition costs and program lengths.
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<h3 id="section---1.CaliforniaStateUniversityLongBeach">1. California State University Long Beach</h3>
<p>California State University Long Beach (CSULB) uses a test-optional admissions policy and primarily evaluates freshman applicants based on their high school GPA in A-G college preparatory courses. A minimum GPA of 2.5 is required for California residents, while nonresidents must have at least a 3.0.
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<p>Competitive majors may require higher GPAs, and CSULB gives priority to students from local service areas. Although SAT scores are not required, students may still submit them to strengthen their application.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $6,084 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $17,458 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
</li></ul><h3 id="section---2.UniversityOfHoustonNdashVictoria">2. University of Houston–Victoria</h3>
<p>The University of Houston–Victoria (UHV) offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Applicants with a 980 SAT score and ranking in the top 50% of their high school class are eligible for admission.
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<p>UHV offers more than 80 academic programs across fields like business, education, computer science, and health studies. Students can choose from a growing number of online bachelor's degrees, along with hybrid formats designed for working adults and those with family obligations.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 980
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $6,388.20 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $18.688.20 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
</li></ul><h3 id="section---3.EasternWashingtonUniversity">3. Eastern Washington University</h3>
<p>Eastern Washington University (EWU) uses a test-optional admissions policy, giving students the choice to apply with or without SAT scores. Freshman applicants are primarily evaluated on their cumulative high school GPA, with a minimum 2.0 GPA required for consideration.
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<p>Students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are guaranteed admission, while those below may be reviewed holistically. EWU also considers the completion of core college preparatory courses when making admissions decisions.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $7,776 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $24,963 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
</li></ul><h3 id="section---4.AppalachianStateUniversity">4. Appalachian State University</h3>
<p>Appalachian State University allows applicants with a minimum 2.8 GPA to apply without submitting SAT scores under its test-optional policy. Students are reviewed based on their academic performance, the rigor of their high school coursework, and class rank when available.
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<p>While SAT scores are not required, strong grades in core subjects like math, science, English, and social studies are important. Applications may be submitted through the university's online portal or the Common App.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional with a 2.8 GPA
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $8,379 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $26,541 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC
</li></ul><h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfNewMexico">5. University of New Mexico</h3>
<p>The University of New Mexico (UNM) considers freshman applicants with a minimum 2.5 GPA and an SAT score of 960 or higher for general admission. Students are also required to complete a standard set of high school college preparatory courses.
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<p>UNM practices a holistic review for applicants who do not meet the automatic admission criteria, taking into account academic performance, course rigor, and personal background. The university offers a wide range of online programs and courses, especially at the undergraduate level, allowing students to pursue flexible learning options.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 960
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $11,210 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $34,129 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
</li></ul><h3 id="section---6.UniversityOfAlabamaAtBirmingham">6. University of Alabama at Birmingham</h3>
<p>The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) uses a test-optional admissions policy, allowing applicants to choose whether to submit SAT scores. Admission decisions are primarily based on high school GPA, with additional consideration given to academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and leadership experience.
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<p>UAB recommends a strong foundation in core subjects, and applicants with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are generally competitive. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including numerous fully online degrees in fields like healthcare, business, and education—making it a practical option for students balancing work and school.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $11,310 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $28,140 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC
</li></ul><h3 id="section---7.UniversityOfSouthAlabama">7. University of South Alabama</h3>
<p>First-year applicants with a minimum 2.5 GPA and a 980 SAT score meet the University of South Alabama's (USA) general admissions criteria. USA evaluates students based on high school GPA, test scores (if submitted), and the completion of college preparatory coursework. The university also provides a range of fully online and hybrid degree options, making it accessible for both recent high school graduates and adult learners.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 980 with a 2.5 GPA
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $11,818 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $21,826 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC
</li></ul><h3 id="section---8.GrandValleyStateUniversity">8. Grand Valley State University</h3>
<p>Grand Valley State University (GVSU) in Michigan offers over 140 undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, education, health sciences, and engineering. A 980 SAT score falls within GVSU's average range for admitted students, particularly when paired with a solid GPA.
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<p>While test scores are considered, GVSU uses a holistic review process that takes into account academic performance, high school curriculum, and extracurricular involvement. First-year applicants can apply through the GVSU admissions portal with no application fee.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 970 to 1210
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $15,872 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $22,588 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC
</li></ul><h3 id="section---9.UniversityOfTexasAtSanAntonio">9. University of Texas at San Antonio</h3>
<p>The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) offers test-optional admissions, allowing students to apply without submitting SAT scores. Admission decisions are based on high school class rank and GPA, with automatic admission granted to students in the top 25% of their class.
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<p>Applicants in the second quartile can also qualify without test scores if they meet other academic benchmarks. UTSA emphasizes a comprehensive review for students outside the automatic thresholds, considering factors like coursework strength and extracurriculars.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> Test optional
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $22,896 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $55,495 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> SACSCOC
</li></ul><h3 id="section---10.UniversityOfMissouri">10. University of Missouri</h3>
<p>The University of Missouri (Mizzou) provides multiple admissions pathways to accommodate a range of applicants. Students from high schools that do not report class rank can qualify for assured admission with a 980 SAT score and a 3.5 GPA.
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<p>Mizzou also evaluates students who fall outside these guidelines through a comprehensive review, considering factors like academic trends, involvement, and college prep coursework. This approach makes the university accessible while maintaining academic standards.
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<ul><li><b>SAT requirements:</b> 980 with a 3.5 GPA
</li><li><b>Average in-state tuition:</b> $30,000 per year
</li><li><b>Average out-of-state tuition:</b> $70,000 per year
</li><li><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC
</li></ul><h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2>
<p>Our selection of colleges that accept a 980 SAT score is based on the following criteria:
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<ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b> Institutions must be accredited by recognized accrediting bodies to ensure quality education standards.
</li><li><b>Admissions requirements:</b> Colleges that accept a 980 SAT score or have test-optional policies are prioritized to provide accessible options for students.
</li><li><b>Program reputation:</b> Schools with strong academic programs, positive student outcomes, and flexible learning options, including online and hybrid courses, are considered to meet diverse student needs.
</li></ul><h2 id="section---ExploreOnlineDegreePrograms">Explore Online Degree Programs</h2>
<p>Whether you're just starting your college journey or returning to school with a 980 SAT score, there are many accessible and accredited options to help you reach your goals. Use Learn.org's resources to compare colleges, explore degree pathways, and get personalized guidance on everything from admissions to financial aid.</p>