for top schools like columbia, cornell, rice, etc. will a 1500 sat hinder me

the reason I ask is because although 1500 falls below their average SATs, it’s only a 10-20 point difference. additionally, ive been told generally that obtaining at least a 1500 sat score gives you a decent shot at top schools so ya. IDK

The fact is the higher the score the better, but that is just one part of the application, so no it won’t “hinder” you if the other parts are great. They don’t call it holistic for nothing.

but like assuming that I’m good for my other parts of college apps, will a 1500 reduce my chances by a lot

You apparently are applying to schools that have a low acceptance rate. Attempting to improve the SAT will be challenging. Polish the other pieces of your application until they completely and honestly reflect you. It seems difficult to imagine that your score itself will make the difference in acceptance versus rejection. Don’t obsess on this one thing! Look at your writing please. But like and similar colloquial expressions aren’t acceptable.