Got a 950 on the SAT Exam? Don’t worry—you still have lots of college options. While a 950 SAT score is a little below the national average, it shows that you’ve got the basic skills in reading, writing, and math. The SAT is a test that colleges use to see how ready you are for college-level work. Many colleges across the U.S. accept students with this score and offer strong programs, helpful support, and even scholarships based on your full application. Your GPA, activities, and essays also play a big role in admissions. If you’re wondering, is 950 a good SAT score?—it’s a solid starting point, especially if it’s your first time taking the test. With more practice, you can improve your score and unlock even more opportunities.

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Is 950 a good SAT score for the First Time?

If you’re asking, “is 950 a good SAT score for the first time?” — the answer is yes, it’s a good place to start. A 950 shows you have basic skills in reading, writing, and math. It’s a bit below the national average, but many students improve with more practice. With some studying and effort, you can raise your score and increase your chances of getting into more colleges.

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What Colleges Accept a 950 SAT Score?

Many colleges accept a 950 SAT score, especially public and regional universities. Schools like San Francisco State University, University of Texas at El Paso, and University of Houston-Downtown often admit students with this score. A 950 shows you have the basic skills needed for college. While it may not be enough for top US schools, it’s still strong enough to get into many good colleges that offer support, good programs, and a great campus experience.

How Does a 950 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 950 SAT score is a bit below the national average SAT Score of around 1024 and puts you in the 38th percentile. This means you scored higher than 38 out of every 100 students. While it’s not a top score, it still shows you have basic reading, writing, and math skills. Many colleges accept a 950 SAT score, and with more practice, you can improve your score for even more options.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 950?

Got a 950 on the SAT? It’s definitely worth taking the test again! You’re close to the national average (about 1050–1100), and most students who retake it improve by 60–70 points. Just getting 4–8 more questions right can boost your score a lot!

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

If you're a senior later in the fall, check which colleges accept a 950 or go SAT test-optional —they’ll look more at your GPA, essays, and recommendation letters. You can also start at a community college and transfer to a 4-year school later. A 950 isn’t the end—just the beginning of your college journey!

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

950 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 950 SAT score is about the same as getting a 17 on the ACT Exam. Both scores are a bit below the national average, but they still show you have the basic skills needed for college. If you're not sure which test is better for you, try a practice SAT and ACT. Then, pick the one where you feel more confident and can score higher with some practice.

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

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 950 SAT Score

A 950 SAT score can still help you get scholarships at some colleges, especially if you have a good GPA. Many schools offer financial aid or merit awards based on test scores, grades, and other achievements. Here are some colleges and their scholarship amounts:

• Arkansas State University – A-State Scholar Award: Up to $4,500/year with SAT 950+ and 3.25+ GPA.
• Texas State University – Assured Scholarships: Around $2,000–$3,000/year for SAT 950–1080 and top 25% class rank.
• University of North Texas – Excellence Scholarship: Up to $1,000–$3,000/year for SAT 950+ and strong academic record.
• Western Kentucky University – Academic Merit Award: Starts at $1,500/year for SAT 950+ and GPA 3.0+.
• Mississippi Valley State University – Presidential Scholarship: Up to $3,000/year for SAT scores near 950 and GPA 3.0+.

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

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 950 SAT Score

Got a 950 on the SAT? Don’t stress—you still have lots of college options! A 950 SAT score shows you have the basics down in reading, writing, and math. Many public and private colleges across the U.S. accept students with this score. These schools offer great programs, fun campus life, and helpful support. Here’s a list of 15 good colleges that accept a 950 SAT score to help you get started.

A 950 SAT score may not be the highest, but it still gives you plenty of college choices. Many schools accept this score and offer good programs, support, and even scholarships. You can also improve your score by studying and trying again. Keep working hard, explore your options, and choose the college that fits you best. Remember—your SAT score is just one part of your college journey!