Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

SAT Score Requirements

What's up guys? Could you help me figure out what minimum SAT score you'd typically need for most colleges? I have a score in mind, but just trying to gauge my standing.

9 months ago

Hi there! While the average SAT score for colleges can vary considerably, many competitive colleges have an SAT score range around the mid-1300s to the upper 1400s, and selective Ivy League schools often have ranges around 1500.

However, some universities use a holistic approach in assessing applications, with SAT scores being just one aspect among many - they also value strong grades in challenging courses, impactful extracurricular activities, and heartfelt personal essays. Schools such as the University of Texas at Austin and numerous liberal arts institutions emphasize this comprehensive review.

Furthermore, some universities have gone 'test-optional' for the 2024-2025 application cycle, including highly competitive institutions. This means that you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT scores. Institutions such as Columbia University, Princeton University, Stanford University, and the University of Chicago fall under this category.

Nonetheless, if your scores are strong, they can certainly play a significant role in your admission. They may also qualify you for merit-based scholarships in certain institutions. Good luck with the application process!

9 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.