A 630 SAT score might seem low when compared to national averages, but it doesn't mean college is out of reach. Many institutions—especially open-admission colleges, community colleges, and HBCUs—accept students with a wide variety of academic profiles. Admissions today are increasingly holistic, taking into account not just test scores but also your GPA, extracurriculars, personal statements, and more. In this article, we’ll cover:
A 630 SAT score is considered very low, placing you in roughly the bottom 5% of test-takers nationally. The average SAT score typically ranges between 1020 and 1050. While a 630 is well below this benchmark, it’s important to remember that your SAT score is only one component of your college application.
Admissions factors that can outweigh a low SAT score include:
Pro Tip: Highlight your strengths outside of test scores to improve your college application impact.
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Although most competitive universities require higher SAT scores, there are still public and private colleges that may accept applicants with a 630, especially if they follow open-admission or test-optional policies. Below are some institutions that may consider applicants with this score:
These colleges often offer academic support programs like bridge courses, mentoring, and tutoring to help students succeed regardless of entry scores.
A 630 SAT score places you in the bottom 5% nationally. While this may seem discouraging, it’s not the final word on your academic potential. Many colleges and universities understand that test performance can be affected by numerous factors and will evaluate your application holistically.
Other factors schools consider:
Yes—if you're able. Retaking the SAT and increasing your score can open more opportunities, including eligibility for more colleges and financial aid.
Consider retaking the SAT if:
Even modest gains (to 800–900) can significantly expand your options.
A 630 SAT score roughly converts to an ACT score of 10–11, which is also below the national average ACT score of around 20–21. However, some open-enrollment colleges and HBCUs may still accept scores in this range.
Pro Tip: Some colleges superscore the SAT, meaning they take your highest section scores from multiple test dates—another reason to consider a retake.
While most merit-based scholarships require higher scores, there are still many need-based and special interest scholarships that don’t emphasize test scores.
Scholarship types to explore:
While a 630 SAT score is at the lower end of the scale, there are a number of colleges and universities that are willing to consider applications from students with this score—particularly those with holistic admissions or open enrollment. A few institutions also offer robust academic support services such as tutoring, mentorship programs, and developmental courses to aid students to perform better once they join. The following is a list of such colleges that are likely to accept applicants whose SAT scores range from 600–700.
University Name |
Avg SAT Range |
Acceptance Rate |
Tuition (In-State) |
Graduation Rate |
Enrollment |
620–900 |
85% |
$17,200 |
35% |
2,100+ |
|
610–850 |
80% |
$9,900 |
25% |
900+ |
|
630–890 |
78% |
$11,200 |
32% |
800+ |
|
630–910 |
70% |
$14,878 |
30% |
1,000+ |
|
620–890 |
76% |
$12,630 |
28% |
700+ |
|
610–860 |
82% |
$12,706 |
22% |
500+ |
|
610–860 |
86% |
$10,000 |
20% |
800 |
|
630–910 |
72% |
$15,010 |
36% |
1,000+ |
|
630–880 |
81% |
$12,464 |
27% |
1,400+ |
Although a 630 SAT score is below average, it doesn't have to determine your destiny. With the proper attitude, strategic college selection, and a solid overall application, you can definitely get into college. If possible, retake the SAT to increase your chances. But even if not, target schools that consider the big picture—not solely your test score.
Pro Tip: Focus on the schools that have test-optional policies and emphasize your strengths like GPA, personal experience, and extracurricular accomplishments.
Last updated: Jun 9, 2025
-> The next SAT 2025 Exam is going to be held on June 7, 2025. The Regular Registration Deadline for the same has ended on May 22, 2025 and the late registration deadline ended May 27, 2025.
-> According to the SAT Exam Schedule, the next fall semester SAT after the June exam is on August 23, 2025.
-> Top US Universities use SAT Scores to measure a student’s preparedness for college-level studies in a consistent and standardized way.
-> The candidates can attempt the SAT Practice Tests by Testbook that offers a suite of solutions for high schoolers who want to improve their SAT score above 1400.
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