Got a 920 on the SAT Exam? Don’t worry—you still have lots of colleges to choose from! A 920 is a little below the national average, but it shows you understand the basics in reading, writing, and math. Colleges use the SAT to see how ready you are for college-level work. Many schools across the U.S. accept students with a 920 and offer good programs, support, and even scholarships based on your full application. Your GPA, activities, and essays also matter a lot. If you’re wondering, “Is 920 a good SAT score?”—it’s a solid starting point, especially if it’s your first try. With more practice, you can raise your score and open up more options.

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Is 920 a good SAT score for the First Time?

If you're asking, "Is 920 a good SAT score for the first time?" — the answer is yes, it's a good starting point. A 920 means you’ve got the basic skills in reading, writing, and math. It's a little lower than the national average, but that's okay! Most students improve their score with more practice. If you study and put in some effort, you can raise your score and have more college options.

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What Colleges Accept a 920 SAT Score?

Lots of colleges accept a 920 SAT score, especially public and regional schools. Places like San Francisco State University, University of Texas at El Paso, and University of Houston-Downtown often admit students with this score. A 920 means you’ve got the basic skills for college. It might not be high enough for top US schools, but it’s still good enough to get into many solid colleges that offer helpful support, strong programs, and a fun campus life.

How Does a 920 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 920 SAT score is a little lower than the national average SAT score of 1024 and puts you in the 33rd percentile. That means you scored higher than 33 out of 100 students. While it’s not a high score, it still shows you know the basics in reading, writing, and math. Many colleges accept a 920 SAT score, and with some more practice and effort, you can raise your score and have even more college choices.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 920?

Got a 920 on the SAT? Don’t stress—it’s a good idea to take the test again! You’re not far from the national average (around 1050–1100), and most students who retake the SAT go up by 60–70 points. Just getting a few more questions right—like 4 to 8—can really boost your score.

If you’re a junior or an early senior, try using practice tests and time yourself to improve. Focus on the questions you got wrong to get better faster.

If you’re a senior later in the year, check which colleges accept a 920 or are SAT test-optional. Those schools will look more at your GPA, essays, and recommendations. You can also go to a community college first and transfer to a 4-year school later. A 920 isn’t the end—it’s just the start of your college journey!

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920 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 920 SAT score is about the same as getting a 17 on the ACT Exam. Both scores are a little below average, but they still show you have the basic reading, writing, and math skills for college.

Not sure which test is better for you? Try a practice SAT and a practice ACT. See which one feels easier and where you do better. Then focus on that test and try to improve your score with some practice.

📌 Read about What is SAT Superscore? How to Calculate It?

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 920 SAT Score

A 920 SAT score can still help you get scholarships at some colleges, especially if you have a strong GPA. Many schools give financial aid or merit scholarships based on your test scores, grades, and other achievements. Here are a few colleges and the types of scholarships they offer:

• Arkansas State University – A-State Scholar Award: Up to $4,500/year with SAT 920+ and 3.25+ GPA.
• Texas State University – Assured Scholarships: Around $2,000–$3,000/year for SAT 920–1080 and top 25% class rank.
• University of North Texas – Excellence Scholarship: Up to $1,000–$3,000/year for SAT 920+ and strong academic record.
• Western Kentucky University – Academic Merit Award: Starts at $1,500/year for SAT 920+ and GPA 3.0+.
• Mississippi Valley State University – Presidential Scholarship: Up to $3,000/year for SAT scores near 920 and GPA 3.0+.

📌 Read about ACT to SAT Conversion: Convert SAT Scores Into ACT Scores

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 920 SAT Score

Getting a 920 on the SAT doesn’t mean you’re out of options—it just means you’ll need to look at colleges that are SAT optional or accept a 920. This score shows you understand the basics in reading, writing, and math. Many public and private colleges in the U.S. accept students with a 920. These schools offer good programs, fun campus life, and helpful support. To help you get started, here’s a list of 15 colleges that accept a 920 SAT score.

A 920 SAT score isn’t the highest, but it still gives you lots of college choices. Many schools accept this score and have good programs, support, and even scholarships. You can also study more and try the test again to get a better score. Keep working hard, look at your options, and pick the college that’s right for you. Remember—your SAT score is only one part of your college journey!