Quick Links
Quick Links
SAT
SAT Prep
Good SAT Score
1600 SAT Score 1590 SAT Score 1580 SAT Score 1570 SAT Score 1560 SAT Score 1550 SAT Score 1540 SAT Score 1530 SAT Score 1520 SAT Score 1510 SAT Score 1500 SAT Score 1490 SAT Score 1480 SAT Score 1470 SAT Score 1460 SAT Score 1450 SAT Score 1440 SAT Score 1430 SAT Score 1420 SAT Score 1410 SAT Score 1400 SAT Score 1390 SAT Score 1380 SAT Score 1370 SAT Score 1360 SAT Score 1350 SAT Score 1340 SAT Score 1330 SAT Score 1320 SAT Score 1310 SAT Score 1300 SAT Score 1290 SAT Score 1280 SAT Score 1270 SAT Score 1260 SAT Score 1250 SAT Score 1240 SAT Score 1230 SAT Score 1220 SAT Score 1210 SAT Score 1200 SAT Score 1190 SAT Score 1180 SAT Score 1170 SAT Score 1110 SAT Score 1100 SAT Score 1090 SAT Score 1080 SAT Score 1070 SAT Score 1060 SAT Score 1050 SAT Score 1040 SAT Score 1030 SAT Score 1020 SAT Score 1010 SAT Score 1000 SAT Score 990 SAT Score 980 SAT Score 970 SAT Score 960 SAT Score 950 SAT Score 940 SAT Score 930 SAT Score 920 SAT Score 910 SAT Score 900 SAT Score 890 SAT Score 880 SAT Score 850 SAT Score 840 SAT Score 830 SAT Score 820 SAT Score 810 SAT Score
Acceptance Rate
Math Prep
English Prep
ACT
ACT Scores Guide
SAT Tips
ACT Tips
College Guide

Home / SAT Exam / Colleges That Accept 880 SAT Score

Colleges That Accept 880 SAT Score | Public & Private Universities

Last Updated on Jun 14, 2025

IMPORTANT LINKS
SAT Test Dates 2025 Average SAT Score Good SAT Score SAT® Score Calculator What's a Good SAT Score for Ivy League? Highest SAT Score ACT to SAT Conversion SAT Superscore SAT Preparation Courses SAT Test Sections SAT Free Practice Test How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges Grammar Rules SAT Preparation Tips How to Prepare for Both SAT & ACT? SAT Reading Tips PSAT vs SAT SAT Vocabulary SAT Myths Subject Tests SAT Score Range SAT Math Preparation SAT Changes Digital SAT Pacing Why Should You Take Both SAT & ACT? Should You Guess On SAT & ACT? SAT Writing Section SAT Writing Tip How to Reschedule the SAT How to Write an SAT Essay? SAT Percentiles & Score Ranking SAT Practice Questions with Answer SAT Test Scores Guide How Long Is The SAT When Should You Take the SAT? Digital SAT Format SAT Preparation Guide SAT vs ACT SAT Tutoring Course SAT Registration SAT Syllabus SAT Eligibility SAT Books SAT Admission Ticket SAT Calculator Policy SAT School Day SAT Test Optional Top Colleges That Accept a 1590 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1570 SAT Scor Top Colleges That Accept a 1600 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 1510 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1540 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1520 SAT Score Top 15 Colleges That Accept a 1500 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1410 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1400 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1390 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1380 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1370 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1360 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1350 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1310 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1300 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1290 SAT Score Colleges that Accept 1580 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1280 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1270 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 1260 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1490 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1250 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1240 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1230 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1220 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1560 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1550 SAT Score Top Colleges for a 1530 SAT Score Best Universities for a 1210 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1200 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1190 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1180 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1170 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1110 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1100 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1090 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1080 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1070 SAT Score Best Colleges That Accept a 1060 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1450 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1440 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1430 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1420 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1480 SAT Scor Top Colleges That Accept 1470 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1460 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1050 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1340 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1040 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1030 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1020 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1010 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1330 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept 1320 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 1000 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 990 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 980 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 970 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 890 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 960 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 830 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 950 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 820 SAT Scor Colleges That Accept a 940 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 880 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 870 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 930 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 920 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 800 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 790 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 780 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 770 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 760 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 750 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 740 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 910 SAT Score Colleges That Accept a 900 SAT Score Colleges That Accept an 850 SAT Score Colleges That Accept an 840 SAT Score Colleges That Accept an 810 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 730 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 720 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 690 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 700 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 710 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1160 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 860 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 660 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 650 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 640 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 630 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 620 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 610 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 600 SAT Score Colleges That Accept 590 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1150 SAT Scor Top Colleges That Accept a 1140 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1130 SAT Score Top Colleges That Accept a 1120 SAT Score

An SAT score of 880 might fall short of the national average, but it in no way closes the door on going to college. There are many colleges—especially community colleges, open-admission universities, and less selective four-year schools—that accept students who score as well as this. In this guide, we’ll explore colleges that accept an 880 SAT score, how this score compares on a national scale, what financial aid options may still be available, and whether retaking the SAT could strengthen your college prospects.

Is 880 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

A score of 880 is considered low, placing you in the 21st percentile. This means you scored higher than only 21% of test-takers nationally. The average SAT score typically ranges between 1020 and 1050, so an 880 suggests room for improvement.

Pro Tip: Admissions committees often look beyond test scores. A strong GPA, compelling essays, solid letters of recommendation, and extracurriculars can offset a lower SAT.

Attempt the SAT Practice Test to Improve your SAT Scores! 

Ace your SAT Preparation with 50+ Full Digital SAT-Like Tests, 3000+ Practice Questions, Topic-Level Notes, Desmos Calculator Integration, Personalized Dashboard and Custom Study-Planners.

What Colleges Accept an 880 SAT Score?

While competitive colleges generally look for scores above 1100, many colleges adopt holistic or open-admission policies and welcome students with scores around 880. Here are some examples:

  • Virginia State University
  • Livingstone College
  • Coppin State University
  • Jackson State University
  • Alcorn State University

📝 Note: Many of these colleges offer conditional admission or academic support services for students with lower standardized test scores.

How Does an 880 SAT Score Compare Nationally?

With an 880 SAT score, you are below the national average and in the 21st percentile. While that may sound discouraging, remember that:

  • Many schools care more about GPA, class rank, and essays
  • Open-admission and community colleges may not require SAT scores at all
  • Your overall academic promise and personal story still hold weight

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 880?

Yes—if you're able to improve your score, retaking the SAT is highly recommended. A 100–200 point increase could significantly broaden your college options and qualify you for merit-based scholarships.

Retake the SAT if:

  • You’re targeting colleges with average SATs of 950+
  • You’re aiming for better scholarship eligibility
  • You didn’t prepare thoroughly the first time
  • You’re confident you can improve with practice and guidance

880 SAT to ACT Equivalent

An 880 SAT score is roughly equivalent to an ACT score of 16–17. This also falls below the national average ACT score of 20–21. Still, colleges that accept an 880 SAT generally accept a 16 ACT.

🔍 Check whether your target schools “superscore” multiple SAT or ACT results—it could benefit you.

Scholarships Available for an 880 SAT Score

While many merit-based scholarships require higher SAT scores, students with an 880 still have access to:

  • Need-based financial aid via the FAFSA
  • Institutional grants at community or regional colleges
  • Private scholarships focused on:
    • Community service
    • Demographics (e.g., first-generation students)
    • Intended major or field of study

🎓 Many scholarships don't consider SAT scores at all. Focus on what you can control—like your essays and community involvement.

Top Colleges That May Accept an 880 SAT Score

Even if these schools aren’t highly selective, they offer academic support, student resources, and opportunities for growth.

University Name

Avg SAT Range

Acceptance Rate

Tuition (In-State)

Grad Rate

Enrollment

Texas Southern University

800–1000

63%

$9,173

26%

7,524

Coppin State University

850–990

40%

$6,904

29%

2,348

Virginia Union University

800–1000

75%

$13,530

36%

1,800

Jarvis Christian University

800–990

65%

$11,720

33%

900

Livingstone College

800–980

71%

$17,732

32%

1,200

Miami Dade College

Open Admission

100%

$2,838

33%

50,000+

Albany State University

860–980

73%

$5,934

33%

6,000+

Fort Valley State University

840–990

72%

$5,594

31%

2,400

Bluefield State University

850–990

90%

$8,840

30%

1,200+

Fayetteville State University

860–1000

79%

$5,274

36%

6,700

Mississippi Valley State University

850–990

83%

$7,334

29%

2,000

Kentucky State University

860–990

87%

$8,090

29%

2,300

Philander Smith University

860–990

64%

$13,014

39%

1,000+

Central State University

860–1000

58%

$7,596

26%

2,000+

A 890 score on SAT will rule out possibilities at highly competitive colleges, but it will not rule you out of college. Most institutions value persistence, community service, and intellectual potential more than SAT scores. With good application materials, you can still attend a decent school that allows you to grow. An 880 SAT may restrict admission to top colleges, but it will not quash your hopes for a degree. Look at schools that look at the entire applicant, and let your individual narrative, GPA, and extracurricular activities make you shine. If you can, retake the SAT. But even if not, make a compelling application with great essays, transcripts, and recommendations.

Latest SAT Exam Updates

Last updated on Jun 15, 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.

Colleges That Accept 880 SAT Score FAQs

It's below average, but acceptable at many open-admission or regional colleges.

Yes. Community colleges and some private or public schools will still consider your application.

Yes, if you can improve with focused prep. A higher score offers more college and scholarship possibilities.

You might not become eligible for high merit aid, but private and need-based scholarships still lie ahead.

An 880 SAT score is about equivalent to a 16–17 ACT score.

Yes, particularly at HBCUs, regional public universities, and religious or private institutions that evaluate applications holistically.