Scoring a 600 on the SAT can feel discouraging, especially when comparing it to national averages. But don’t give up—many community colleges, open-admission universities, and historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) accept students with low SAT scores. These institutions often focus on a student’s potential and overall academic journey rather than just a single test score. In this article, we’ll explore colleges that may accept a 600 SAT score, how your score compares nationally, financial aid possibilities, and whether retaking the SAT is worth it.

Is 600 a Good SAT Score?

A 600 on the SAT places you in the bottom 5% of test-takers nationwide. Since the SAT is scored out of 1600, a 600 score indicates a need for significant improvement to meet the average college benchmarks, which generally fall between 1020–1050. Still, standardized test scores aren’t everything. Many colleges take a holistic approach to admissions, considering factors like:

• High school GPA and grade trends
• Class rank and academic rigor
• Personal essays and recommendation letters
• Extracurricular activities and leadership roles

Pro Tip: A strong GPA, active community involvement, and a compelling personal story can make up for a low SAT score at many institutions.

What Colleges Accept a 600 SAT Score?

While most competitive universities require scores well above 1000, several colleges and universities welcome students with SAT scores as low as 600, especially when paired with a strong academic background or supportive personal factors. Here are a few examples of colleges that may consider applicants with a 600 SAT score:

These schools often provide academic support, remedial programs, and mentoring services to help students succeed despite lower SAT scores.

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 600?

Yes—if you’re able, retaking the SAT could open up more doors.

You should consider retaking the SAT if:

• You didn’t study adequately the first time
• You can realistically improve your score by 100–200 points
• You’re aiming for schools with SAT averages closer to 900+
• You want to qualify for merit-based scholarships

Even reaching an SAT score of 800 or 850 can greatly expand your college options and scholarship opportunities.

600 SAT Score to ACT Equivalent

A 600 SAT roughly converts to an ACT score of 9–10, which is also considered below average (the ACT national average is around 20–21).

Some community colleges and open-enrollment universities also accept ACT scores in this range or may not require standardized testing at all.

Can You Get Scholarships with a 600 SAT Score?

Most merit-based scholarships do require higher test scores, but there are still funding options:

Consider:

• Need-based financial aid (FAFSA)
• Community-based scholarships for specific backgrounds or talents
• Institutional aid at community colleges and HBCUs
• Scholarships for leadership, community service, or special talents (e.g., music, athletics)

Pro Tip: Many scholarships don’t consider SAT scores at all—especially those based on need or unique personal background.

Top Colleges That May Accept a 600 SAT Score

Here’s a quick overview of potential colleges and universities for students with a 600 SAT score:

A 600 SAT score may feel limiting, but it doesn’t close the door to higher education. Many colleges—particularly community colleges and HBCUs—look at the whole student, not just test scores. With a strong GPA, thoughtful application, and clear goals, you can still pursue a degree and build a promising future.

If possible, consider retaking the SAT to increase your options—but if not, focus on colleges that emphasize holistic admissions or don’t require standardized testing.