Wondering if a 1160 SAT score is good? Yes—it is! A 1160 is above average and puts you ahead of most test-takers (about the 76th percentile). The SAT checks your skills in reading, writing, and math, and colleges use it to see if you're ready for college-level work. With a 1160, you have a solid shot at getting into lots of good colleges. It might not get you into the most competitive schools, but you still have plenty of great options. In this guide, we’ll show you colleges that accept a 1160 SAT score, your chances of getting in, possible scholarships, and tips to help you make smart choices.

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Is 1160 a good SAT score for the First Time?

A 1160 SAT score is a good SAT score for first try! It’s above average and places you in about the 76th percentile of students who take the test. That means you scored better than most test-takers. With a 1160, you can apply to lots of colleges across the U.S. and have a solid shot at getting in. This score can help open doors and give you plenty of college options to choose from.

What Colleges Accept a 1160 SAT Score?

Lots of public and private colleges accept a 1160 SAT score. Some examples are Penn State, University of Alabama, Michigan State, and University of Iowa. These schools have different majors and campus vibes, so you can find one that fits you. While top schools might want higher scores, a 1160 is still a strong score and gives you plenty of college options.

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How Does a 1160 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

A 1160 SAT score is better than the national average. In 2024, most students scored around 1024. If you got a 1160, that puts you in about the top 25%, which means you did better than most test-takers. This tells colleges that you’re ready for college-level work and can keep up with other strong students.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1160?

A 1160 is a solid SAT score and can help you get into a lot of colleges. But if you’re aiming for more selective schools or want to win bigger scholarships, it might be a good idea to take the test again. Junior year is a great time to do that. Spend 4–6 weeks studying using free SAT websites, SAT prep books, or get help from a tutor or class if you can.

If you’re a senior, it might be harder to retake the test because of college deadlines. Make sure you check test dates and plan ahead. If there’s no time to retake it, focus on the rest of your application. Write a strong personal essay, ask teachers for recommendation letters, and list your activities. Ask your school counselor to review your essay. A strong, complete application can really help!

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1160 SAT to ACT Equivalent 

A 1160 SAT score is about the same as getting a 24 on the ACT. Both scores are above average and show that you're ready for college-level work. If you’re not sure which test to take, this comparison can help. Try a practice SAT and a practice ACT to see which one feels easier for you. Pick the test you’re more comfortable with and feel like you can do better on.

Colleges Scholarships That Accept a 1160 SAT Score

A 1160 SAT score can help you get scholarships at a lot of colleges. It shows you have solid academic skills and scored higher than most students. Many schools give merit scholarships to students with scores like yours. Here are some colleges that offer scholarships for a 1160 SAT score:

• University of Alabama – Merit scholarships up to $6,000/year for a 1160 SAT
• Arizona State University – New American University Scholarship for eligible SAT scorers
• Mississippi State University – Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship for SAT 1160+
• University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) – Merit scholarships starting at 1100 SAT and up
• University of Iowa – Advantage Iowa Award and other merit scholarships
• Texas State University – Presidential and Merit scholarships for SAT scores starting at 1160
• University of Missouri – Missouri Land Grant or Curators Award for qualifying SAT scores

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

Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 1160 SAT Score

A 1160 SAT score is a good score that gives you lots of great college choices. It’s higher than the national average and shows you’re ready for college work. With a 1160, you can apply to many public and private schools across the U.S. These colleges have good classes, fun campus life, and scholarships too. Here’s a list of the top 15 colleges that accept a 1160 SAT score to help you find the right school for you. 

Note: Tuition fees listed are for in-state students and are approximate figures. Graduation rates and enrollment numbers are based on the most recent data available.

A 1160 SAT score gives you a good chance to get into many colleges across the country. It shows you’re ready for college and can do the work. With this score, you have lots of schools to pick from, both public and private. Many of these schools also offer scholarships and financial help. Make sure to look at your options, work on your whole application, and pick a college that fits your goals and interests.