A 770 SAT score falls significantly below the national average, but it doesn’t mean the end of your college dreams. There are numerous colleges—especially community colleges, technical institutes, and open-admission universities—that welcome students with this score. This guide outlines schools that accept a 770 SAT score, how the score is evaluated nationally, available financial aid options, and whether it's beneficial to retake the SAT.

Is 770 a Good SAT Score for the First Time?

A 770 SAT score places you in the 13th percentile, meaning you scored better than only 13% of test-takers. With the national SAT average sitting around 1020–1050, a 770 score is on the lower end. Still, some colleges do not require SAT scores at all, and many others assess applicants holistically—focusing on GPA, extracurriculars, personal essays, and recommendations.

Pro Tip: Build a strong academic and personal profile beyond test scores. Community service, leadership roles, and teacher recommendations can make a significant difference.

What Colleges Accept a 770 SAT Score?

Even though most selective colleges have higher SAT requirements, open-admission and regional institutions, some HBCUs and community colleges, admit students with a 770 SAT score. Some colleges also provide conditional admissions or academic support programs to ensure underprepared students succeed. The following are colleges that can accept a 770 SAT score:

• Livingstone College
• Benedict College
• Miles College
• Virginia State University
• Bluefield State University

Note: These colleges typically emphasize other aspects of your application and may not require SAT scores at all.

How Does a 770 SAT Score Compare Nationally?

Scoring 770 places you in the 13th percentile, which is well below average. However, this shouldn't discourage you. Many colleges accept a wide range of scores and understand that students have different strengths. Test scores are only one part of your application—showing your potential through other means can still get you accepted.

Should You Retake the SAT If You Scored 770?

Yes—if you have time to prepare, retaking the SAT can help expand your college options and improve financial aid chances. Even a modest improvement to around 950–1000 can open up more opportunities.

Consider retaking if:

• You didn’t study much the first time
• You are applying to colleges with average SATs over 900
• You want to be eligible for more scholarships
• You can access prep resources like online courses or tutors

770 SAT to ACT Equivalent

A 770 SAT score is roughly equivalent to an ACT score of 14–15. Like your SAT score, this is also below average for ACT test-takers. However, most colleges that accept a 770 SAT also accept a 14 ACT score—especially if they offer open or less selective admissions.

Scholarships Available for a 770 SAT Score

Though merit-based scholarships generally require scores above 1100, there are still financial aid options available:

• Need-based aid via FAFSA
• Institutional aid at community colleges and HBCUs
• Private scholarships based on activities, essays, or personal background
• State and federal grants

Many scholarships don’t factor in test scores at all, especially those focusing on community impact, demographics, or field of study.

Top Colleges That May Accept a 770 SAT Score

While not elite schools, these colleges offer academic support, career services, and community engagement—all key elements for student success. They also often come with lower tuition fees and financial flexibility.

A 770 SAT score can put you at the lower end of average, but it does not destroy your college prospects. Most institutions, especially HBCUs, regional schools, and community colleges, apply holistic admissions standards. Concentrate on enhancing your academic story, essays, and engagement, and you will still have superb college prospects.

Pro Tip: If possible, retaking the SAT is a good idea. But if not, spend money on creating a strong application with solid GPA, essays, and recommendations.