A score of 790 on the SAT may be below the national average, but it by no means shuts the door on college attendance. There are plenty of colleges—particularly community colleges, open-admission universities, and less competitive four-year institutions—that welcome students who score this well. In this guide, we’ll explore colleges that accept a 790 SAT score, how this score compares on a national scale, what financial aid options may still be available, and whether retaking the SAT could strengthen your college prospects.

Is 790 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

A score of 790 is low, putting you in the 21st percentile of students across the country. That means your score is higher than only around 21% of students, and far below the average SAT score, which will usually fall somewhere in the range of 1020 to 1050. But keep this in mind: colleges look at more than test scores. If you can demonstrate a high GPA, good coursework, good extracurricular activities, or a compelling personal history, most schools will pay serious attention to your application.

Pro Tip: Focus on enhancing your application through personal essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular achievements to counterbalance a lower SAT score.

What Colleges Accept a 790 SAT Score?

While many highly selective colleges may demand SAT scores greater than 1100, there are many open-admission schools, community colleges, and regional universities that will accept students with scores such as 790. Some of the colleges that would consider accepting students with an 790 SAT score include:

• Virginia State University
• Livingstone College
• Coppin State University
• Jackson State University

Note: Several of these schools assess students holistically and can provide support programs or conditional admission to those who have lower scores.

How Does a 790 SAT Score Compare Nationally?

An SAT score of 790 places you in the 21st percentile, meaning roughly 79% of test-takers scored higher. This confirms it is below the national average. However, this should not discourage you. Many colleges prioritize other admission factors over standardized tests, including:

• Academic performance in high school
• Commitment to extracurricular activities
• Community involvement
• Personal essays and interviews

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 790?

Yes, if at all possible. Taking the SAT again can significantly enhance your college chances and scholarship opportunities. Even an increase of 100–200 points can open up a lot more opportunities.

You should consider retaking the SAT if:

• You're applying to colleges with average SAT scores above 950
• You didn't study extensively the first time
• You have time to prepare and improve
• You're seeking better scholarship opportunities

790 SAT to ACT Equivalent

An SAT score of 790 is roughly equivalent to an ACT score of 16–17. Like the SAT, this ACT range is below the national average of 20–21. Colleges accepting 790 SAT scores are typically open to similar ACT ranges.

Note: Some colleges superscore the SAT or ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates.

Scholarships Available for an 790 SAT Score

While most merit-based scholarships require higher SAT scores, there are still several financial aid options for students with an 790 score:

• Need-based aid through the FAFSA
• Institutional scholarships at community and regional colleges
• Private scholarships based on community service, identity, or specific fields of study

Tip: Many scholarships do not require SAT scores at all—focus on service, academic interest, or personal background when applying.

Top Colleges That May Accept an 790 SAT Score

Though a 790 SAT score is low in relation to national averages, there are institutions that still accept applicants with scores at this level—particularly when there are other areas of the application, including GPA, recommendation letters, and personal statements, with potential. These institutions might either be test-optional, open-admission, or emphasize holistic review processes. These colleges offer support programs to assist students in achieving academic success and, therefore, are viable choices for students who seek to continue their studies with a 790 SAT score.

Even though a 790 SAT score may not be sufficient for very highly selective universities, it by no means dashes your hopes of a college education. There are numerous colleges and universities—particularly institutions with open admissions or holistic review policies—that admit students with scores in this category. With a strong application, well-written essays, and good academic record, you can still be admitted and do well in college.

Pro Tip: Retaking the SAT can boost your options, but even without it, strong writing, passion, and academic effort can make all the difference.