Community colleges offer an affordable option for students whose scores don't allow them immediate entrance to a four-year institution. If you want an advanced degree, such as a bachelor's, you can take community college courses before transferring to a regular university. In many states, community colleges design two-year programs specifically to meet state schools' transfer requirements. Some colleges have community branch campuses with low admission standards. For example, Miami University of Ohio's Hamilton and Middletown campuses have an open admission policy -- you only need a high school diploma or GED to attend. Once enrolled, you can work on your degree until you're ready to transfer to the main campus.
If your reading SAT scores aren't too far below average, consider attending a state school. State colleges prioritize local residents when admitting students. This means that state residents can have lower test scores than out-of-state students and still gain admission. Some schools, including many in the California State University system, guarantee admittance to qualifying local students. Check with your guidance counselor or an admissions officer at your local state university to determine if a state school is a good fit for your educational needs.
A growing number of schools accept but do not require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. These schools evaluate applications as a whole rather than focusing solely on a student's numbers. Bard College places emphasis on a student's activities and essays. Antioch College in Ohio looks at a student's educational record along with leadership activities, extracurriculars, work history and volunteer experience. A guidance counselor can help you to find other schools that do not require SAT scores for entrance.
Since you can register for the SATs more than once, take them again. Create a study schedule and work to improve your reading skills. Sign up for a prep course or hire a reading tutor prior to sitting for the actual test. The SAT Score Choice program allows you to choose the test scores you send to colleges; taking the test multiple times allows you to send colleges your best reading score. Alternatively, study hard and take the ACT. Every four-year college in the United States accepts the ACT. Also work on strengthening the rest of your application. Good grades, leadership experience, stellar extracurriculars and a strong essay may balance out your low SAT reading score.