UIUC SAT Requirements

I'm considering applying to the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign (UIUC) and was wondering about their SAT requirements. What's the typical SAT score range for admitted students? Are there any specific sections they weigh more heavily?

For the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign (UIUC), admitted students' SAT scores typically fall within the range of 1400-1530, with the 25th percentile being around 1400 and the 75th percentile around 1530. However, please note that these numbers can vary slightly from year to year.

UIUC values both the Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (ERW) and Math sections of the SAT. Traditionally, there is no specific section that they weigh more heavily than the other, as they consider both sections important for ensuring academic success.

However, depending on your intended major, strong performance in one section may be particularly beneficial. For instance, if you're pursuing a STEM major, a high Math score might hold extra significance, while humanities majors might benefit from a strong ERW score.

It’s important to remember that UIUC practices a holistic review process, so your SAT score is just one part of your application. They will also consider other factors like your GPA, class rank, rigor of your high school curriculum, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays. If your SAT score is slightly below the aforementioned range, don't be discouraged. Excelling in other areas of your application can help to offset a weaker SAT score.

If you're looking for tips on how to strengthen your overall application to UIUC, check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which breaks down how to tackle their school-specific supplemental essays: https://blog.collegevine.com/how-to-write-the-university-of-illinois-at-urbana-champaign-essays/. The essays are often just the thing that distinguish one academically qualified applicant from another.

Finally, it's worth noting that UIUC is officially test-optional, so you actually are not required to submit an SAT (or ACT) score. However, you're smart to still be thinking about a target SAT score, as there are many instances where submitting a test score can still be wise. For detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional

I hope you find this information helpful, and good luck with your college process and SAT!