Got a 900 on the SAT Exam? Don’t worry—you still have many college options! A 900 is a bit below the national average, but it shows you know the basics in reading, writing, and math. Colleges use the SAT to see if you’re ready for college work. Many schools in the U.S. accept a 900 and have good programs, support, and scholarships based on your whole application. Your GPA, activities, and essays also matter a lot. If you’re wondering, “Is 900 a good SAT score?”—it’s a good starting point, especially if it’s your first time. With practice, you can raise your score and get more choices.

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Is 900 a good SAT score for the First Time?

Wondering, "Is 900 a good SAT score for your first try?" Yes, it’s a good start! A 900 shows you know the basics in reading, writing, and math. It’s a little below the national average, but that’s okay. Most students improve when they take the test again. If you study and practice, you can raise your score and have more college options.

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What Colleges Accept a 900 SAT Score?

Lots of colleges accept a 900 SAT score, especially public and regional schools. Colleges like San Francisco State, UT El Paso, and University of Houston-Downtown often accept students with this score. A 900 means you have the basic skills needed for college. It might not get you into top US schools, but it’s good enough for many great colleges that offer good programs, helpful support, and a fun campus life.

How Does a 900 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 900 SAT score is a little lower than the average SAT score of 1024. The 900 places you in the 29th percentile. It means you did better than 29 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 900, and if you study and practice more, you can raise your score and get more college choices.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 900?

Got a 900 on the SAT? Don’t worry—it’s a good place to start! You’re close to the average score (around 1050–1100), and most students who take the test again improve by 60–70 points. Just getting 4 to 8 more questions right can really help.

If you’re a junior or early senior, keep practicing with timed SAT tests. Work on the questions you missed to get better faster.

If you’re a senior later in the year, check out colleges that accept a 900 or SAT Test Optional colleges which don’t require SAT scores. These schools will focus more on your GPA, essays, and recommendation letters. You can also start at a community college and transfer to a 4-year college later.

A 900 SAT score isn’t the end—it’s just the start of your college journey!

📌 Know about SAT vs ACT: Which Test Should You Take for College Admissions?

900 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 900 SAT score is about the same as a 16 on the ACT Exam. Both scores are a bit below average, but they still show you know the basics in reading, writing, and math.

Not sure which test is better for you? Try taking a practice SAT and a practice ACT. See which one feels easier and where you do better. Then focus on that test and practice to get a higher score.

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

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 900 SAT Score

A 900 SAT score can still help you get scholarships at some colleges, especially if your GPA is strong. Many schools give money—called financial aid or merit scholarships—based on your SAT score, grades, and other achievements. Here are some colleges and the types of scholarships they offer:

• Arkansas State University – A-State Scholar Award: Up to $4,500/year with SAT 900+ and 3.25+ GPA.
• Texas State University – Assured Scholarships: Around $2,000–$3,000/year for SAT 900–1080 and top 25% class rank.
• University of North Texas – Excellence Scholarship: Up to $1,000–$3,000/year for SAT 900+ and strong academic record.
• Western Kentucky University – Academic Merit Award: Starts at $1,500/year for SAT 900+ and GPA 3.0+.
• Mississippi Valley State University – Presidential Scholarship: Up to $3,000/year for SAT scores near 900 and GPA 3.0+.

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

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 900 SAT Score

Getting a 900 on the SAT doesn’t mean you’re out of options. It just means you should check out colleges that don’t require SAT scores or accept a 900. This score shows you know the basics in reading, writing, and math. Many public and private colleges in the U.S. accept students with a 900 SAT score. These schools have good programs, fun campus life, and plenty of support to help you do well. To get you started, here’s a list of 15 colleges that accept a 900 SAT score.

A 900 SAT score isn’t very high, but you still have lots of colleges to pick from. Many schools accept this score and have good programs, help for students, and even scholarships. You can also study more and take the SAT again to try to get a higher score. Keep trying your best, look at your options, and pick the college that feels right for you. Remember—your SAT score is just one part of your college journey!