A 730 SAT score may fall well below the national average, but it doesn’t mean college is out of reach. Many institutions—especially open-admission colleges, community colleges, and some regional public and private universities—welcome students with SAT scores in this range.

In this guide, we’ll explore which colleges accept a 730 SAT score, how it compares nationally, potential scholarships, and whether it’s worth retaking the test to improve your score.

Is 730 a Good SAT Score?

A 730 SAT score is considered low, placing you around the 8th percentile of test-takers. This means your score is higher than only 8% of students nationwide. Since the national average SAT score is typically between 1020 and 1050, a 730 suggests there’s significant room for improvement. However, SAT scores are just one part of your college application. Many colleges—especially open-enrollment and community colleges—place more weight on your GPA, personal statement, recommendation letters, and extracurriculars.

Pro Tip: Use your college essays and application to highlight personal growth, community involvement, and your strengths outside of standardized testing.

What Colleges Accept a 730 SAT Score?

While most competitive and top-tier universities require higher SAT scores, many two-year and four-year institutions do not have strict SAT requirements or even accept test-optional applications. Some colleges use a holistic review process, and others have open admissions policies.

Colleges That May Accept a 730 SAT Score:

Note: Open-admission schools generally do not require SAT scores, so your 730 score won’t be a barrier to entry.

How Does a 730 SAT Score Compare Nationally?

A 730 SAT score places you in the bottom 10% of all test-takers. Most students score 1050–1100, so a 730 is significantly below the average benchmark used by many four-year colleges. Still, colleges may prioritize:

• A strong high school GPA
• Leadership roles or consistent extracurricular involvement
• Positive recommendation letters
• A compelling personal essay

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 730?

Yes, especially if you want to broaden your college options. Even a 100–200 point improvement could make you eligible for more colleges and increase your chances for scholarships.

Consider retaking the SAT if:

• You didn’t prepare seriously the first time
• You’re targeting more selective colleges
• You want to be eligible for merit-based scholarships
• You plan to apply to 4-year universities with higher average scores

730 SAT to ACT Equivalent

A 730 SAT score is roughly equal to a 13–14 ACT score, which is also below the national ACT average of 20–21. Like the SAT, this ACT score is typically accepted at community colleges and open-admission institutions.

Scholarships Available for a 730 SAT Score

Most merit scholarships require at least a 1100–1200 SAT score, but other types of financial aid are still available.

Financial Aid Options:

• FAFSA-based need aid
• Institutional grants at community and regional colleges
• Private scholarships based on leadership, talent, or demographics
• Work-study programs
• State grants for eligible residents

Top Colleges That May Accept a 730 SAT Score

Here’s a closer look at some public and private institutions that consider or accept applicants with scores in the 700–800 range:

A 730 SAT score may limit your options at selective colleges, but many schools still welcome students with scores in this range. Community colleges, HBCUs, and regional institutions often value your overall academic profile, not just test scores.

Pro Tip: While retaking the SAT can improve your opportunities, you should also focus on building a strong GPA, writing compelling essays, and staying involved in meaningful extracurricular activities.