A 1430 on the SAT is an impressive accomplishment, placing you in the top 5–7% of all test-takers nationwide. With a maximum SAT score of 1600, scoring 1430 demonstrates strong academic potential and opens the door to many competitive public and private universities. In this guide, we’ll explore which colleges accept a 1430 SAT score, how it compares to national averages, potential scholarship opportunities, and whether retaking the SAT could further benefit your college admission journey.

Is 1430 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

Absolutely. Scoring a 1430 on your first attempt is a significant achievement. It qualifies you as a strong applicant at many selective institutions like Northeastern University, Lehigh, and the University of Florida. While ultra-selective Ivy League schools often prefer SAT scores closer to 1500+, a 1430 places you within range of many top 100 universities—especially when paired with a solid GPA, compelling essays, and meaningful extracurricular activities.

Tip: With a 1430 in hand, it’s smart to focus on perfecting the rest of your application: personal statements, teacher recommendations, and leadership roles can further boost your chances.

What Colleges Accept a 1430 SAT Score?

A 1430 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:

• Northeastern University
• University of Florida
• University of Wisconsin–Madison
• Lehigh University
• University of Georgia
• Santa Clara University
• University of Texas at Austin
• University of Miami
• University of Connecticut
• Fordham University

These schools consider not only your test scores but also your GPA, extracurriculars, and personal essays. A 1430 SAT score will help you stand out in the admissions pool at these institutions.

How Does a 1430 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

The national average SAT score for the Class of 2024 was 1024. With a score of 1430, you are over 400 points above the national average. This places you in the 94th to 96th percentile, clearly indicating you're academically well-prepared for college.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1430?

While a 1430 is already an excellent score, retaking the SAT may be worth considering in a few scenarios:

• You're applying to Ivy League or other ultra-selective schools like Stanford or MIT, where average SAT scores are around 1500+.
• You believe you can realistically improve your score by 50–70 points with targeted prep.
• You're pursuing merit-based scholarships that require scores of 1450 or higher.

If these don't apply to you, it’s likely better to focus on enhancing other elements of your application.

1430 SAT to ACT Equivalent

A 1430 SAT score is roughly equivalent to an ACT score of 31–32. This places you in a similar percentile range—top 6–7%—and allows you to apply to colleges that accept either SAT or ACT scores. Some schools will superscore or offer flexibility between the two tests, so having an equivalent ACT score gives you options.

College Scholarships That Accept a 1430 SAT Score

Many colleges offer automatic or competitive merit scholarships for students scoring 1400 or higher on the SAT. Here are some top choices:

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

Tip: Always verify current scholarship eligibility on each university’s official financial aid website.

Top Colleges That Accept a 1430 SAT Score 

A 1430 SAT puts you significantly above the national average and a solid contender at most reputable colleges in America. Although it's technically below the Ivy League range, it's good enough to get into many top schools—especially if combined with a good GPA, quality extracurricular activities, and good writing in your essays. Following are some of the best colleges where a 1430 SAT score falls within or close to the average range of admitted students.

A 1430 SAT score positions you for success at a broad range of selective universities. Although it is a bit below the Ivy League's usual range, it is more than sufficient to secure admission to many highly regarded public and private universities throughout the U.S. Unless you have your sights set on Ivy League or merit-based aid that requires higher scores, concentrate instead on building your application portfolio — GPA, essays, and activities will carry you through.