A score of 860 on the SAT might seem discouraging, but it certainly doesn’t mean the end of your college dreams. While it places you below the national average, many community colleges, open-admission institutions, and less selective four-year universities accept students with this score. In this article, we'll explore colleges that accept an 860 SAT score, how this score stacks up nationally, what your options are for financial aid and scholarships, and whether it’s worth retaking the SAT.

Is 860 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

A score of 860 places you in approximately the 17th percentile, meaning you scored higher than only 17% of test-takers. The national average SAT score typically falls between 1020 and 1050, which means your score is significantly below average. That said, many schools—particularly community colleges, HBCUs, and regional public universities—don’t prioritize SAT scores as heavily and instead consider other parts of your application, such as GPA, extracurriculars, and essays.

Pro Tip: A strong personal statement, solid grades, and teacher recommendations can help offset a lower SAT score. Focus on highlighting your strengths beyond the test.

What Colleges Accept an 860 SAT Score?

While most highly competitive colleges require SAT scores above 1100, there are many schools that consider students with SAT scores in the 800–900 range. These colleges often provide excellent support programs and accessible education paths. Here are some colleges and universities that may accept an 860 SAT score:

• Albany State University
• Fort Valley State University
• Fayetteville State University
• Bluefield State University
• Mississippi Valley State University

Many of these schools offer holistic admissions and may have special consideration programs for students with lower standardized test scores but strong academic potential.

How Does an 860 SAT Score Compare Nationally?

An 860 SAT score is below the U.S. national average, placing you in the 17th percentile. This means that 83% of test-takers scored higher than you. Still, this number does not define your entire academic profile. Many colleges understand that not every student tests well and will focus on:

• GPA and course rigor
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal essays
• Leadership and volunteer experience

Some universities are even test-optional, meaning they may not require SAT scores at all.

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 860?

Yes—if you can. Retaking the SAT and improving your score can open up more opportunities, including access to more selective schools and additional scholarships.

Consider retaking the SAT if:

• You're aiming for colleges with average SAT scores above 950
• You believe you can improve by 100+ points
• You didn’t study thoroughly the first time
• You're seeking eligibility for more merit-based scholarships

Even modest score increases (to 950 or 1000) can expand your college list significantly.

860 SAT to ACT Equivalent

An SAT score of 860 roughly translates to an ACT score of 15–16. This, too, is below the national average ACT score (20–21). Like with the SAT, some colleges that accept lower SAT scores will also accept similar ACT scores.

Pro Tip: Check if your target colleges superscore the SAT or ACT—this can work in your favor if you've taken the test multiple times.

Scholarships Available for an 860 SAT Score

While most merit-based scholarships require SAT scores above 1100, there are still several avenues to secure financial aid:

Types of aid you may be eligible for:

• Need-based aid via the FAFSA
• Institutional aid from community colleges or smaller public/private schools
• Private scholarships based on:
  • Community service
  • Specific majors
  • Athletic or artistic talent
  • Underrepresented demographics

Many scholarship programs do not require SAT scores, so it’s worth applying regardless of your test performance.

Top Colleges That May Accept an 860 SAT Score

Below is a list of public and private colleges that consider applicants with SAT scores near 860. These schools may have flexible admission policies, academic support programs, and accessible tuition.

While an 860 SAT score might limit your chances at highly selective colleges, it doesn’t prevent you from pursuing a quality college education. Many community colleges and four-year universities are eager to support students from all academic backgrounds. Focus on crafting a strong application through essays, recommendations, and GPA.

Pro Tip: Consider retaking the SAT to improve your chances—but even if you don’t, emphasize other strengths in your application to stand out.