Scored a 1280 on the SAT Exam? That’s a strong score! You might be wondering, “Is 1280 a good SAT score?” The answer is yes—it’s better than most students who take the test. The SAT checks how well you do in math and reading, and a 1280 shows you’re ready for college-level work. With this score, you have a good chance of getting into many well-known colleges. Some schools may even offer scholarships. In this guide, we’ll go over which colleges accept a 1280, plus info on tuition, acceptance rates, and scholarships. Let’s find out where your score can take you!
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If you're wondering, "Is a 1280 a good SAT score?"—the answer is yes, especially if it’s your first try! A 1280 is above the national average, so you did better than most students. It shows colleges that you’re strong in math and reading and ready for college-level classes. With this score, you can apply to many good colleges and might even qualify for scholarships.
A 1280 SAT score is a good score that can help you get into many colleges in the U.S. It’s higher than the national average and shows that you’re ready for college-level work. Schools like Penn State, the University of Minnesota, and Michigan State often accept students with this score. Some colleges may even offer you a chance to join honors programs or get scholarships. Overall, a 1280 gives you a lot of great college choices.
A 1280 SAT score is much better than the average. In 2024, the average SAT score was about 1024, so a 1280 puts you ahead of most students—you're in the top 15% of test takers. This strong score shows colleges that you’re ready for college-level work and can help your application stand out at many schools.
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A 1280 is a strong SAT score and can help you get into many good colleges. But if you're trying to get into highly selective schools or want better chances at scholarships, taking the SAT again might be a good idea. If you believe you can study more and improve your score, it's worth a try. However, if you're happy with your 1280 and it matches your college goals, you don’t have to retake it.
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A 1280 SAT score is about the same as getting a 27 on the ACT Exam. Both are good scores and higher than the national average. Even though the SAT and ACT test different things, colleges usually treat them the same when you apply. If you’re not sure which test is better for you, try taking a practice test for both to see which one feels easier.
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A 1280 SAT score can qualify you for merit-based scholarships at many colleges. These scholarships can help lower tuition costs and reward your academic performance. Here are some colleges that accept a 1280 SAT score and offer scholarships:
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A 1280 SAT score is a strong score that can help you get into many good colleges. With this score, you have a good shot at both public and private universities. In this guide, we’ll share 15 colleges that accept 1280. These schools have great academics, fun campus life, and some even offer scholarships. Let’s check out where you can apply with your score!
University Name |
SAT Score Range |
Average GPA |
ACT Score Range |
Acceptance Rate |
Admission Chance |
Tuition Fees (In-state) |
Graduation Rate |
Enrollment |
1230–1480 |
3.8 |
26–33 |
31% |
Competitive |
$17,434 |
85% |
52,384 |
|
1210–1480 |
3.7 |
30–33 |
19% |
Competitive |
$36,467 |
80% |
19,402 |
|
1220–1420 |
4.0 |
27–32 |
43% |
Moderate |
$17,180 |
85% |
40,607 |
|
1240–1430 |
3.97 |
27–32 |
57% |
Moderate |
$19,301 |
91% |
38,170 |
|
1200–1410 |
3.7 |
28–32 |
80% |
High |
$10,000 |
80% |
47,000 |
|
1200–1490 |
3.9 |
28–32 |
53% |
Moderate |
$10,700 |
86% |
45,000+ |
|
1210–1510 |
3.7 |
28–33 |
44% |
Moderate |
$17,020 |
85% |
48,674 |
|
1210–1460 |
3.8 |
28–33 |
80% |
High |
$10,000 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
1150–1450 |
3.8 |
24–30 |
86% |
High |
$17,646 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
1200–1490 |
3.8 |
28–33 |
59% |
Moderate |
$20,000 |
85% |
28,000+ |
|
1140–1350 |
3.7 |
25–32 |
80% |
High |
$10,000 |
70% |
28,000+ |
|
1240–1480 |
3.6 |
26–32 |
93% |
Very High |
$11,000 |
70% |
28,000+ |
|
1260–1480 |
3.7 |
26–32 |
83% |
High |
$11,000 |
70% |
30,000+ |
|
1220–1480 |
3.6 |
25–32 |
77% |
High |
$10,000 |
70% |
27,000+ |
|
1260–1480 |
3.8 |
26–32 |
79% |
High |
$13,000 |
70% |
28,000+ |
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 1280 SAT score is a strong score that gives you access to many great college options. You can apply to both public and private universities and be a competitive candidate. While some top schools may want a higher score, many great colleges will still consider your application with a 1280. Make sure to also focus on other parts of your application, like your GPA and extracurricular activities, to improve your chances even more.
Last updated: Jun 7, 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.
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