The SAT Exam is a test that many colleges use to see if you're ready for college-level work. It tests your reading, writing, and math skills. A 1010 SAT score is slightly above the national average, which is about 1024. This means you scored better than half of the students who took the test. While a 1010 might not be enough for highly competitive schools, it’s still a good score that opens up many college options, especially at public and private schools with flexible admissions. Many colleges also look at your GPA, activities, and essays, not just your SAT score. So, if you scored a 1010, don’t worry—you still have a good chance of getting into a great school.

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Is 1010 a good SAT score for the First Time?

A 1010 SAT score is slightly below the national average, which is around 1024. This score places you right around the 50th percentile, meaning you scored better than about half of the students who took the test. While it’s not a top score, it’s still a solid starting point. If you plan to retake the SAT, you can improve with more study and practice.

What Colleges Accept a 1010 SAT Score?

With a 1010 SAT score, you have many good college options in the U.S. Schools like Texas State University, University of North Texas, and Eastern Michigan University often accept students with this score. These colleges offer strong programs, fun campus life, and opportunities to grow. Your GPA, activities, and essays also count in the application. So, even with a 1010, you still have a good chance at getting into many schools if your full application is strong.

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How Does a 1010 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 1010 SAT score is just below the national average SAT score, which is around 1024. This means you scored slightly lower than most students who took the test. A score of 1010 puts you roughly in the 50th percentile, meaning you did better than half of the test-takers. While it’s not above average, it still shows you're ready for college-level work and opens doors to many colleges.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1010?

If you score a 1010 on the SAT, you may want to consider retaking the test, especially if you're aiming for more competitive colleges. The national average SAT score is around 1024, so a 1010 is slightly below average, which means there’s room for improvement. On average, students who retake the SAT improve their scores by 50-70 points with more practice. Studying from SAT prep books and focusing on your weaker areas can help raise your score. If you’re happy with your score and the schools you're applying to accept it, you don’t have to retake the test. But if you want to increase your chances for better schools or scholarships, a higher score can give you more options.

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1010 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 1010 SAT score is about the same as a 19 on the ACT Exam. Both scores are a little above average and show that you're ready for college-level work. Colleges use SAT and ACT scores in a similar way, so if you're not sure which test to take, knowing the score match can help. Try taking a practice test for both exams to see which one you’re more comfortable with and which helps you get a better score.

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

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 1010 SAT Score

A 1010 SAT score can help you get merit-based scholarships at some colleges. This means you might get money to help pay for school because of your test score. The amount of scholarship money can be different at each college. Some schools give awards or financial aid to students in this score range. Here are a few colleges that may offer scholarships if you have a 1010 SAT score.

• 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 1010 SAT and a solid GPA.
• Northern Arizona University – Awards the NAU Merit Scholarship for residents and non-residents with a 1010+ 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 1010 SAT.

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

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 1010 SAT Score

A 1010 SAT score is a little below the national average, but it still gives you a good shot at getting into many colleges. It may not be enough for the top or super competitive schools, but it can help you get into many good public and private universities. These colleges have strong classes, fun campus life, and financial aid to help you pay for school. Here are 15 colleges where a 1010 SAT score can help you get in.

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 1010 SAT score gives you lots of college choices. It shows you’re ready for college-level work and can get into many solid schools. While it might not be high enough for the most selective colleges, it’s still a good score. Keep working on your GPA, doing activities you enjoy, and writing strong essays. With effort and a complete application, you can find a college that’s a great fit for you.