The SAT is a critical component of U.S. college admissions which is designed to measure students’ readiness. This is done through Math and Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), with a total score ranging from 400 to 1600. And scoring a 1580 on the SAT is an incredible achievement—just 20 points shy of perfection and placing you firmly in the top 1% of test-takers nationwide. With such a high score, your application stands out at nearly every top-tier university. This guide explores the best colleges that accept a 1580 SAT score, scholarship opportunities, and what else admissions officers consider beyond test results.

Is 1580 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

Absolutely—it’s exceptional. If you scored a 1580 on your first try, you're among the highest-scoring students nationwide. Most students will never see that number even after multiple attempts. A 1580 opens nearly every college door in the U.S. It also provides the opportunity to have more time to refine other aspects of your application, such as your essays and your extracurriculars. With this SAT score, you're not just applying—you're competing at the highest level. Schools know a 1580 reflects serious academic strength and test-taking mastery. 

What Colleges Accept a 1580 SAT Score? 

A 1580 SAT score places you firmly at the top of the academic ladder—you're in the top 1% of all test-takers. With this elite grade, Ivy League institutions like Harvard, Princeton, and Yale are within your reach. It also makes doors of access at the best private universities like Stanford, MIT, and Caltech. Such a high score not only increases the probability of acceptance but also prepares you for leading merit-based scholarships. It’s not a guaranteed acceptance—but you’ll definitely be on the radar for elite schools, honors programs, and top scholarships.

Get a List of All Colleges That Superscore the SAT! 

How Does a 1580 SAT Score Compare to the National Average?

In 2024, the average SAT score was 1024. But the national average SAT score usually lingers around a specific range, so a 1580 positions you almost 500 points ahead—an incredible margin. Your score puts you in the top 1% of nationwide test-takers. It's an unequivocal indicator that you're not simply prepared for college—you're prepared for the most competitive educational environments. Admissions officers at elite schools recognize a 1580 as a marker of exceptional academic preparation, critical thinking, and discipline. It gives you a powerful edge in a highly competitive applicant pool.

Should You Retake the SAT if You Score a 1580?

In most cases there is no need to retake the test. A 1580 is already an elite score, just 20 points short of perfect. Unless you're aiming for a perfect 1600 for personal satisfaction or highly competitive scholarships that require it, there’s no strategic advantage in retaking. Focus your energy on crafting an outstanding application instead.

1580 SAT to ACT Equivalent

A 1580 SAT score roughly converts to a 35–36 on the ACT. This is at the top of the ACT scoring scale, making you equally competitive if you choose to submit ACT scores instead. Colleges will view both scores as indicators of your academic excellence.

College Scholarships That Accept a 1580 SAT Score

A 1580 SAT score provides even greater possibilities for merit scholarships at highly competitive colleges. Most highly competitive colleges acknowledge the value of this score and provide generous financial assistance packages to high-scoring students.

• University of Southern California (USC) – Trustee Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship provides full tuition to outstanding students with excellent academic achievements, including students with a 1580 SAT score.
• University of Alabama – Presidential Elite Scholarship: Having a SAT score of 1580 merits students this full-tuition, room, and stipend award, making it extremely competitive and lucrative scholarship offering.
• Vanderbilt University – Ingram Scholars Program and Cornelius Vanderbilt Scholarship: Both scholarships provide full tuition to high-achieving students, including those who earn a 1580 on the SAT, for academic excellence and leadership potential.
• Duke University – Robertson Scholars Program: This one provides a full scholarship, covering tuition, room, board, and other perks for high-SAT-scoring students, such as a 1580. It is a highly competitive merit scholarship.
• University of Georgia – Foundation Fellowship: This is the most prestigious undergraduate scholarship offered by the University of Georgia and provides full-ride financial aid to students who achieve top marks in the SAT, including students with a score of 1580.
• Princeton University – Need-Based Financial Aid: Princeton provides need-based financial aid packages that can meet up to 100% of tuition for students with demonstrated need. Having a 1580 SAT score places you in a very competitive position for significant support, especially for students with family incomes below $85,000.

Colleges That Accept a 1580 SAT Score

With a 1580, you’re on the radar at every elite institution. Schools like Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Caltech, MIT, Columbia, and the University of Chicago welcome applicants in this score range. Even ultra-selective public schools like UNC-Chapel Hill and UC Berkeley will consider you a top-tier candidate. This score signals you’re prepared for the academic rigor and competition of these leading universities.

1. Harvard University 

Renowned for its rigorous academics and influential alumni, Harvard consistently ranks as one of the best universities globally.

2. Stanford University 

Located in Silicon Valley, Stanford is a leading institution in innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.

3. Yale University

Renowned for its elite law school and globally ranked faculty, Yale provides a superior academic experience with a robust emphasis on humanities and social sciences.

4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

A global leader in technology and engineering, MIT is at the forefront of scientific innovation and research.

5. California Institute of Technology (Caltech) 

Caltech leads in science, engineering, and technology with a limited student enrollment and an emphasis on high-impact research.

6. Princeton University

An extremely selective Ivy League institution, Princeton is renowned for its intimate campus community and focus on undergraduate education.

7. Columbia University 

Situated in New York City, Columbia offers a diverse academic environment and access to one of the world’s most dynamic urban settings.

8. University of Chicago

Renowned for its intellectually demanding curriculum and research initiatives, UChicago is famous for promoting intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.

9. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) 

A prestigious Ivy League school, UPenn blends strong business, health, and liberal arts programs with a focus on interdisciplinary learning.

10. Duke University 

A top-tier university known for its strong programs in research, health, and business, Duke offers a vibrant academic and social community.

11. Northwestern University 

With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, Northwestern is a leading university offering excellent programs in arts, sciences, and communication.

12. Johns Hopkins University 

A global leader in medical research and public health, Johns Hopkins provides a rich academic environment with a focus on scientific inquiry.

13. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) 

One of the top public universities, UC Berkeley offers exceptional academic programs across a wide range of disciplines, particularly in science and technology.

14. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) 

Known for its strong liberal arts and public health programs, UNC-Chapel Hill provides a comprehensive academic experience with a vibrant campus life.

15. Brown University 

With its flexible open curriculum, Brown encourages students to explore a wide range of subjects and develop their own academic path.