A 1420 on the SAT is a notable achievement, positioning you in the top 5–7% of all test-takers across the country. With a possible SAT score of 1600, achieving a 1420 shows excellent academic potential and paves the way to numerous highly competitive public and private colleges. In this guide, we’ll explore which colleges accept a 1420 SAT score, how it compares to national averages, potential scholarship opportunities, and whether retaking the SAT could further benefit your college admission journey.

Is 1420 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

Indeed. Achieving a 1420 on your initial attempt is an impressive feat. It makes you a competitive candidate at most selective universities such as Northeastern University, Lehigh University, and the University of Florida. Although hyper-selective Ivy League colleges usually favor SAT scores around 1500+, a 1420 puts you in range at most top 100 universities—particularly when combined with a good GPA, good essays, and good extracurricular activities.

Tip: Having a 1420 under your belt, it's wise to concentrate on getting the rest of your application just right: personal statements, teacher letters of recommendation, and leadership activities can further enhance your prospects.

What Colleges Accept a 1420 SAT Score?

A 1420 SAT score is highly competitive at many well-ranked public and private institutions. Below is a list of universities where this score falls within or above the middle 50% of admitted students:

• Ohio State University
• Pepperdine University
• University of Washington – Seattle
• University of Pittsburgh
• Clemson University

These schools consider applications as a whole—taking into account not just your test scores, but also GPA, extracurriculars, and personal essays. A 1420 SAT score makes you stand out in the applicant pool at these schools.

How Does a 1420 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

The national average SAT score for the Class of 2024 was 1024. Being at 1420, you are more than 400 points higher than the national average. This puts you in the 94th to 96th percentile, which easily shows that you're well-prepared academically for college.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1420?

Though a 1420 score is itself exceptional, retaking the SAT should be contemplated under the following conditions:

• You're applying to Ivy League or other ultra-selective schools like Stanford or MIT with average SAT scores of 1500+.
• You think you can reasonably boost your score by 50–70 points with focused prep.
• You're seeking merit-based awards that necessitate scores of 1450 or better.

If none of the above rings true for you, it's probably more savvy to boost other aspects of your application such as essays, leadership positions, and extracurricular richness.

1420 SAT to ACT Equivalent

A 1420 SAT score is approximately equivalent to an ACT score of 31–32. This puts you in the same percentile range—top 6–7%—and provides flexibility when applying to colleges that accept either test. Some colleges superscore or accept the higher score between SAT and ACT, so having both scores can give you more opportunities.

College Scholarships That Accept a 1420 SAT Score

Numerous colleges award automatic or competitive merit scholarships to students with 1400 and above on the SAT. Below are some best picks:

• University of Alabama: Merit awards begin at 1360 SAT and go up as scores get higher.
• University of Arizona: Awards Wildcat Excellence Awards to students with a score of 1400+.
• Baylor University: Competitive academic scholarships are available in the 1400–1500 SAT range.
• University of Mississippi: Automatic merit aid for students with a score of 1360+.
• Oklahoma State University: Non-resident tuition waivers start at 1440 SAT.
• Temple University: Awards merit scholarships starting at a 1400 SAT score.

Tip: Always check up-to-date scholarship eligibility on each university's official financial aid website.

Top Colleges That Accept a 1420 SAT Score

A 1420 SAT score puts you well above the national average and makes you a strong candidate at many of America's most respected colleges. Here's a close comparison of some of the best schools where your score is in or near the middle 50% of admitted students: