A 1520 places you in the 99th percentile of all test-takers nationwide, according to College Board data. Out of over 2 million students who take the SAT each year, fewer than 1% score at or above your level. That's genuinely impressive.
But here's what matters for top university admissions: how your score compares within the applicant pool at highly selective schools. When everyone applying scores well, context becomes everything.
At most top 20 universities, the middle 50% of admitted students score between roughly 1470 and 1550. Your 1520 falls comfortably within this range, closer to the 75th percentile than the 25th.
Looking at specific schools:
Your score sits at or above the 25th percentile for nearly every top 20 school. You're competitive. About half of admitted students at these schools scored within 30 points of where you are.
What does competitive mean in practical terms? Your test score won't keep you out of consideration. Admissions officers will look at the rest of your application without hesitation.
Here's what we've learned working with students since 2004: your SAT score opens the door, but everything else determines whether you walk through it.
Top universities evaluate you holistically:
A 1520 establishes your academic capability. What happens next depends on how compellingly you present yourself as a whole person.
With a 1520, retaking is a personal decision rather than a necessity. Moving to 1550 or 1560 might strengthen your application marginally at the most selective schools, but the difference is small.
Consider retaking if:
Focus your time elsewhere if:
Many students wonder how many times they should take the SAT. With a 1520, you've already proven your academic ability. Whether another test sitting serves you depends on your specific circumstances and goals.
We've seen students with scores like yours gain admission to every top 20 school. We've also seen some face rejection. The difference rarely comes down to those final 30 or 40 points.
What matters more: authenticity in your college essays, genuine passion in your activities, intellectual curiosity that comes through in recommendations, and a clear sense of who you are and what you value.
If you're still deciding which test path makes sense for your strengths, our guide comparing SAT versus ACT might help. Some students also find value in learning about specific score requirements at top colleges to inform their college list strategy.
A 1520 makes you competitive at top 20 schools, but admission rates at these universities range from 3% to 15%. Even perfectly qualified students face uncertainty.
Build a thoughtful college list including:
Many outstanding universities slightly outside the top 20 offer exceptional education, strong networks, and excellent outcomes. Your 1520 makes you a standout candidate at these schools.
You've already demonstrated strong academic ability. What comes next is presenting yourself authentically and finding schools where you'll thrive, not just schools with the lowest acceptance rates.
At LifeWorks, we help students build confidence and present their authentic selves throughout the college process. Whether you need academic support, test preparation guidance, or essay coaching, we're here to walk alongside you. Get in touch to learn how we can support your journey.
Is 1520 competitive for top 20 universities?
Yes, 1520 is competitive for top 20 schools. You fall within the middle 50% range at nearly all of them, typically closer to the 75th percentile than the 25th.
Should I retake the SAT with a 1520?
Retaking is optional with a 1520. Moving to 1550+ might help marginally at the most selective schools, but your time might serve you better strengthening other application components.
What percentile is a 1520 SAT score?
A 1520 places you in the 99th percentile nationwide, meaning you scored higher than about 99% of all test-takers.
How does 1520 compare at Stanford versus MIT?
At both schools, 1520 is at or slightly above the 25th percentile for admitted students. Stanford's range is 1510-1570,
