If you’re preparing for college admissions, the SAT is one of the most important standardized tests you’ll encounter. When your results come in, you might be wondering: is 1100 good SAT score? The answer depends on your college goals, the schools you’re applying to, and how your score compares to the national average.
In this article, we’ll break down what an 1100 SAT score means, how it ranks nationally, what colleges you can target, and how to improve it if needed. We’ll also include an FAQ section for quick answers.
Table of Contents
1. Understanding the SAT Scoring System
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600, with two main sections:
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW): 200–800 points
- Math: 200–800 points
An 1100 SAT score means your combined total from both sections equals 1100. This could be, for example:
- 550 EBRW + 550 Math
- 600 EBRW + 500 Math
- 500 EBRW + 600 Math
The SAT also reports percentile rankings, which show how you performed compared to other test-takers.
2. What Does an 1100 SAT Score Mean Nationally?
An SAT score of 1100 is generally considered slightly above average. According to College Board data, the average SAT score in recent years has been around 1050. This means:
- 1100 SAT score → Around the 58th–60th percentile, meaning you scored better than about 58–60% of test-takers.
While this is respectable, it’s not considered a top-tier score for highly competitive universities. However, it is strong enough to gain admission to many solid colleges.
3. Is 1100 Good for College Admissions?
The answer depends on your target schools:
- Highly Competitive Colleges (Top 50): Usually require scores above 1350–1400 for competitive applications.
- Moderately Competitive Colleges: Many accept students with scores in the 1100–1250 range.
- Less Competitive or Open-Admission Colleges: An 1100 is above the minimum requirement.
So, is 1100 good SAT score? For selective Ivy League schools, it’s below their average admitted student score. For many state universities and private colleges, it’s within or slightly above their average range.
4. Colleges That Accept Students with an 1100 SAT
While you should always check each school’s latest admissions data, here are examples of colleges where an 1100 SAT can be competitive:
- University of Nevada, Reno
- University of Texas at San Antonio
- California State University campuses (varies by location)
- University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Arizona State University (some programs)
- Kent State University
- Florida Gulf Coast University
5. How an 1100 SAT Score Affects Scholarships
Some colleges offer merit-based scholarships for students scoring above the national average. While an 1100 won’t qualify for the most competitive scholarships, it may still earn you:
- Partial tuition discounts
- State-funded merit awards (in some states)
- Institutional scholarships for strong GPAs combined with decent test scores
If scholarships are your goal, improving your SAT score to 1200 or higher could open more financial aid opportunities.
6. Should You Retake the SAT if You Scored 1100?
Whether you retake the SAT depends on your goals:
- Yes, retake it if you’re aiming for more competitive schools or bigger scholarships.
- No, skip retaking if your target schools already accept students with your score and you’re happy with your options.
Many students improve their SAT score by 50–150 points on a retake with focused preparation.
7. How to Improve Your 1100 SAT Score
If you want to boost your score, here are strategies:
- Review your weakest section: Focus on the part where you scored lower (Math or EBRW).
- Practice official SAT questions: Use the free College Board resources or Khan Academy.
- Take full-length timed practice tests: This builds stamina and familiarity with the test format.
- Learn test-taking strategies: Time management, process of elimination, and pacing can make a difference.
- Consider a prep course or tutor: Personalized guidance can help you target problem areas.
8. Alternatives to the SAT
Some colleges are now test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting an SAT score. In these cases, your GPA, essays, and extracurricular activities carry more weight.
If you feel your 1100 score doesn’t reflect your abilities, you might:
- Apply to test-optional schools
- Submit ACT scores instead if they are higher
- Strengthen your application in other areas
9. Factors That Matter Besides SAT Scores
While your SAT score is important, colleges look at more than just numbers:
- High school GPA
- Rigor of courses (AP, IB, Honors)
- Extracurricular activities
- Leadership roles
- Volunteer work
- Personal essays and recommendation letters
A strong overall application can help you get into good schools even if your SAT score isn’t top-tier.
10. Final Verdict: Is 1100 Good SAT Score?
An 1100 SAT score is slightly above average and can get you into many good colleges. However, it’s not competitive for the most selective universities. Whether it’s “good” depends on your goals:
- If you’re targeting mid-range universities → Yes, it’s good enough.
- If you’re targeting top-tier universities → You’ll likely need a higher score.
Think of it as a solid foundation — one you can either build upon with a retake or use confidently for certain schools.
FAQs About “Is 1100 Good SAT Score?”
Q1: What percentile is an 1100 SAT score?
A: Around the 58th–60th percentile nationally, meaning you scored better than most test-takers.
Q2: Can I get into college with an 1100 SAT score?
A: Yes, many colleges accept students with an 1100 SAT, especially state universities and moderately selective schools.
Q3: Is an 1100 SAT score bad?
A: No. It’s above the national average, but not highly competitive for elite schools.
Q4: Can I get scholarships with an 1100 SAT score?
A: Possibly, especially from schools with merit aid starting slightly above the national average, though higher scores increase your chances.
Q5: How much can I improve my score with a retake?
A: Many students improve by 50–150 points with focused study.
Q6: Is it worth retaking the SAT with an 1100?
A: Yes, if you want to target more competitive schools or qualify for better scholarships.
Q7: Should I take the ACT instead?
A: If your ACT practice scores are stronger, you might benefit from taking the ACT instead of retaking the SAT.
Q8: Does GPA matter more than SAT for some schools?
A: Yes, especially at test-optional colleges, where GPA, coursework, and extracurriculars can outweigh test scores.
