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Top Colleges That Accept a 1030 SAT Score | Great Schools You Can Get Into

Last Updated on Jun 07, 2025

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The SAT Exam is a test that many colleges use to check if you’re ready for college-level classes. It measures your reading, writing, and math skills. A 1030 SAT score is a little higher than the national average, which is around 1024. That means you did better than many other students. While a 1030 might not get you into the most competitive schools, it’s still a solid score. Lots of public and private colleges accept students with this score, especially if you also have a good GPA, activities, and essay. So don’t worry—a 1030 can still help you get into a good college and start your college journey.

🚀 Use Testbook’s SAT Score Calculator to Find Your SAT Scores! 

Is 1030 a good SAT score for the First Time?

A 1030 SAT score is a bit higher than the national average, making it a solid start for your first try. It shows you have a good understanding of reading, writing, and math. Many public and private colleges accept this score, so you have good options. If you're aiming for more competitive schools, you can always study more and retake the test. Most students improve their score the second time with practice.

What Colleges Accept a 1030 SAT Score?

With a 1030 SAT score, you can get into many good colleges across the U.S. Schools like Texas State University, University of North Texas, and Eastern Michigan University often accept students with this score. These schools offer great programs, a fun campus life, and chances to grow. Your GPA, activities, and essays also matter in your application. So, even with a 1030, you have a good chance at many public and private schools if your application is strong overall.

📌 What is the SAT Calculator Policy? Read Here!

How Does a 1030 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 1030 SAT score is slightly above the national average. In 2024, the average SAT score was around 1024. So, with a 1030, you did better than many other test-takers. This means you have a good understanding of the skills tested in reading, writing, and math. While it may not be enough for top schools, it still gives you a strong chance at many colleges.

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Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1030?

If you scored a 1030 on the SAT, you might want to retake the test, especially if you're a junior. A 1030 is a good start, but even raising your score by 100 points can open up more college options. Most students who retake the SAT see their scores improve by 60–70 points. Review your test to find areas where you struggled, and focus your study there. Use practice tests, SAT prep books, or join a prep class to help boost your score.

If you’re a senior, time may be tight, but some schools accept scores from summer or early fall SATs. If retaking the test isn’t possible, make sure the rest of your application is strong. Write a good personal essay, ask for teacher recommendations, and consider applying to test-optional colleges that focus more on your grades, essay, and activities instead of SAT scores.

📌 Find out How Long is the SAT?

1030 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 1030 SAT score is about the same as a 20 on the ACT Exam. Both scores are slightly above average and show that you're ready for college. Colleges look at SAT and ACT scores in similar ways, so if you're unsure which test to take, knowing the score comparison can help. You can try taking practice tests for both exams to see which one feels easier for you and where you score better.

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

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 1030 SAT Score

A 1030 SAT score can help you qualify for merit-based scholarships at many colleges. The amount of money may vary, but some schools offer financial aid or academic awards to students with this score. Here are a few examples:

  • Texas State University – Offers merit scholarships like the President’s Honor Scholarship for students meeting GPA and SAT criteria.
  • University of Southern Mississippi – Provides Academic Merit Scholarships starting with a 1030 SAT and a solid GPA.
  • Northern Arizona University – Awards the NAU Merit Scholarship for residents and non-residents with a 1030+ SAT.
  • Eastern Michigan University – Offers the Education First Opportunity Scholarship based on GPA and test scores.
  • Middle Tennessee State University – Provides Guaranteed Academic Scholarships to eligible students with scores starting at 1030 SAT.

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

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 1030 SAT Score

A 1030 SAT score is just above average and gives you a good shot at getting into many colleges. While it might not be enough for very competitive schools, it can still open doors to good public and private universities. These schools offer strong programs, great campus life, and financial aid options. Here are 15 colleges where a 1030 SAT score can help you get in.

University Name

SAT Score Range

Average GPA

ACT Score Range

Acceptance Rate

Tuition Fees (In-state)

Graduation Rate

Enrollment

Sam Houston State University

970–1140

3.3

19–24

85%

~$8,536

52%

21,000+

Portland State University

1010–1230

3.4

20–25

93%

~$9,105

48%

22,000+

San Francisco State University

950–1150

3.4

19–24

94%

~$7,484

53%

27,000+

Marshall University

910–1120

3.5

20–25

97%

~$8,128

45%

13,000+

Radford University

950–1150

3.2

19–24

93%

~$11,916

49%

9,000+

East Carolina University

1040–1200

3.3

19–24

88%

~$7,239

59%

28,000+

Texas State University

1010–1180

3.4

20–25

81%

~$10,280

54%

38,000+

Georgia State University

1030–1260

3.4

20–25

76%

~$9,286

52%

34,000+

San Jose State University

1030–1260

3.4

20–25

67%

~$7,852

55%

32,000+

University of Hawaii at Manoa

970–1270

3.4

20–25

83%

~$11,304

58%

17,000+

University of North Carolina at Pembroke

890–1080

3.2

19–24

85%

~$3,418

41%

7,000+

University of Southern Mississippi

960–1150

3.3

19–24

96%

~$8,624

49%

14,000+

Western Carolina University

1010–1180

3.3

19–24

85%

~$4,452

55%

12,000+

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

980–1160

3.3

19–24

56%

~$10,382

47%

16,000+

California State University, Fresno

950–1150

3.3

19–24

58%

~$6,587

51%

24,000+

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and pertain to in-state students. Graduation rates and enrollment figures are based on the most recent data available from official university sources.

A 1030 SAT score gives you a lot of college choices. It shows you're ready for college-level work and can get into many good schools. While it might not be enough for the most selective colleges, it's still a solid score. Keep working on your GPA, activities, and essays to strengthen your application. With effort, you'll find a college that fits your goals.

Latest SAT Exam Updates

Last updated on Jun 8, 2025

-> The next SAT 2025 Exam is going to be held on June 7, 2025. The Regular Registration Deadline for the same has ended on May 22, 2025 and the late registration deadline ended May 27, 2025. 

-> According to the SAT Exam Schedule, the next fall semester SAT after the June exam is on August 23, 2025.

-> Top US Universities use SAT Scores to measure a student’s preparedness for college-level studies in a consistent and standardized way.

-> The candidates can attempt the SAT Practice Tests by Testbook that offers a suite of solutions for high schoolers who want to improve their SAT score above 1400.

Colleges That Accept 1030 SAT Score FAQs

Yes, a 1030 SAT score is slightly above the national average (around 1024). It shows you’re ready for college-level work and gives you access to many public and private universities across the U.S.

Yes, many colleges offer merit-based scholarships for students with a 1030 SAT score, especially when paired with a solid GPA. Examples include Texas State University, Northern Arizona University, and University of Southern Mississippi.

 If you're a junior, retaking the SAT could be a smart move—most students improve their scores. Even a 100-point increase can expand your college and scholarship options. Seniors with limited time should focus on other strong parts of their application.

A 1030 SAT score roughly equals a 20 on the ACT. Both scores are slightly above average and are considered acceptable by many colleges with flexible admissions.

Several colleges accept students with a 1030 SAT score, including Sam Houston State University, Georgia State University, Eastern Michigan University, and University of Louisiana at Lafayette, among others.

Absolutely! A 1030 SAT score opens doors to many reputable colleges with strong academic programs and student support services. Schools also consider GPA, essays, and extracurriculars in the admissions process.