A score of 890 on the SAT may be below the national average, but it by no means shuts the door on college attendance. There are plenty of colleges—particularly community colleges, open-admission universities, and less competitive four-year institutions—that welcome students who score this well. In this guide, we’ll explore colleges that accept an 890 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 890 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

A score of 890 is low, since it puts you in the 21st percentile, meaning that you scored higher than roughly 21% of test-takers. The national average SAT score is roughly 1020–1050, so an 890 indicates there is a lot of room for improvement. Nevertheless, most schools—particularly open-admission colleges and community colleges—will still look at your application, particularly if you show a strong GPA, extracurricular activity, and personal narrative.

Pro Tip: Work on establishing a solid academic history beyond standardized testing. Strong letters of recommendation, essays, and performance in class can offset a lower SAT score.

What Colleges Accept an 890 SAT Score?

While selective colleges typically require scores above 1100, there are numerous institutions—especially community colleges, technical schools, and open-admission universities—that accept or do not emphasize SAT scores as part of their admissions process.

Here are some colleges that may accept students with an 890 SAT:

• Virginia State University
• Livingstone College
• Coppin State University
• Jackson State University
• Alcorn State University
• Benedict College
• Central State University
• Miles College

Note: Many of these schools consider applications holistically and may offer conditional or support-based programs for students with lower test scores.

How Does an 890 SAT Score Compare Nationally?

An 890 SAT score is below the national average, which currently sits around 1020–1050. Scoring 890 places you in the 21st percentile, meaning roughly 79% of students performed better. While this may seem discouraging, remember that test scores are just one part of your college application. Some colleges weigh GPA, class rank, extracurricular activities, and essays more heavily.

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 890?

If you have the time and resources, yes, retaking the SAT can significantly improve your admission and scholarship prospects. Even a 100–200 point increase can open the door to more universities and financial aid.

You should consider retaking the SAT if:

• You’re targeting colleges with average SAT scores above 950–1000
• You believe you can improve with targeted practice
• You’re aiming for better scholarship eligibility
• You didn’t prepare thoroughly the first time

890 SAT to ACT Equivalent

An 890 SAT is approximately equal to an ACT score of 16–17. Similar to your SAT score, this equivalent ACT score is also lower than the national average (approximately 20–21). Colleges that accept an 890 SAT will generally accept a 16 ACT as well. Make sure to find out if a school superscores the SAT or ACT when considering multiple test scores.

Scholarships Available for an 890 SAT Score

Most merit-based scholarships require SAT scores above 1100, but there are still options:

• Need-based financial aid through FAFSA
• Institutional aid offered by community colleges and regional universities
• Private scholarships that focus on community service, specific majors, or demographic criteria

While your SAT score may not qualify you for top merit aid, many scholarships don’t consider SAT scores at all.

Top Colleges That May Accept an 890 SAT Score

Though these schools are not extremely selective, they provide excellent academic support, active campus life, and worldliness. With good advising, career services, research opportunities, and engaged alumni networks, they enable students to succeed. Their merit aid and affordability also make them wise, high-return options for many applicants.

Final Thoughts

Although an 890 SAT score might exclude options at extremely selective colleges, it does not exclude you from college altogether. Most schools appreciate perseverance, volunteer work, and intellectual promise over test scores. With solid application materials, you can still go to a respectable school that fosters your development.

Pro Tip: If you can, take the SAT again. But whether or not you do, make the other parts of your application shine—particularly your essays, grades, and recommendations.