Do SAT scores impact your chances at the Coast Guard Academy?

I'm thinking about applying to the Coast Guard Academy and am curious about how important SAT scores are. Can anyone share what scores might give me a good chance or if there's a range I should target?

The U.S. Coast Guard Academy does consider the SAT in the admission process. While there is no strict cutoff for SAT scores, to be competitive, your SAT scores should ideally fall within or exceed the range of previously admitted students. For the class of 2026, the middle 50% SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores were approximately between 570 and 670, while the middle 50% SAT Math scores were roughly between 580 and 690.

However, keep in mind that the Coast Guard Academy does not use a strictly numbers-based approach for their admission process. Alongside your SAT scores, your GPA, rigor of high school curriculum, leadership experience, physical fitness, and extracurricular involvement are all considered. Demonstrating consistent leadership, particularly in Tier 1 or Tier 2 extracurriculars (like national or state level achievements), would also help enhance your application substantially.

Ultimately though, while aiming for high SAT scores can certainly help your application, a holistic approach that highlights your academic strengths, leadership skills, and a commitment to service would give you a better chance at admission. Don't forget to showcase these traits in your essays and interviews, too!