How important are SAT scores for Denison University?

Hi, I'm wondering how much weight Denison University places on SAT scores in their admissions process. Do they have specific SAT thresholds that applicants should aim for? Or is it more about a holistic review of the applicant? Would really appreciate any insights into this!

Denison University considers SAT scores as one component of their admissions process, but they take a holistic approach when evaluating applicants. This means that while SAT scores matter, they are not the only aspect that determines an applicant's eligibility for admission. Other factors like your GPA, course rigor, essays, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation also play a crucial role in their decision-making.

As for specific SAT thresholds, Denison does not have a strict cutoff point. However, it can be helpful to look at the middle 50% range of SAT scores for accepted students to grasp a general idea of the competitive score range. For the class of 2026, the middle 50% range for the SAT was 1290-1440. This means that 25% of admitted students scored below a 1290, 50% scored between 1290-1440, and the remaining 25% scored above 1440.

While aiming for a score within or above this range can improve your chances, remember that even a lower score does not necessarily disqualify you from being accepted. Denison values the diverse backgrounds and achievements students bring to their community, and they carefully review each applicant's profile to make their decisions.

If you feel that your SAT score does not fully represent your academic abilities or potential, take the time to strengthen other aspects of your application. Writing compelling essays, demonstrating engagement in extracurricular activities, and showcasing strong letters of recommendation can help offset a lower test score and bolster your chances of being admitted. Best of luck with your application to Denison!