For students aiming to get into top universities, understanding SAT score requirements is crucial. Whether you’re targeting Ivy League schools like Harvard, prestigious tech institutions like MIT, or renowned public universities like UCLA, your SAT score plays a major role in admissions. But what exactly constitutes a good SAT score? And how does it compare across different universities? This guide breaks down the required SAT scores for top colleges in 2025, including eligibility criteria, score expectations, and expert recommendations to maximize your chances.
Understanding the SAT Score System
Before diving into specific score requirements, it’s essential to understand the SAT scoring structure:
- Total SAT Score: Ranges from 400 to 1600.
- SAT Sections:
- Math (200-800)
- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) (200-800)
- What is a Good SAT Score?
- 1500+: Excellent, competitive for Ivy League schools.
- 1400-1490: Very good, competitive for top 50 universities.
- 1300-1390: Above average, good for most state universities.
- 1200-1290: Decent, eligible for many colleges but may not be competitive for top-tier institutions.
- Below 1200: May need improvement depending on target colleges.
SAT Score Requirements for Top Colleges in 2025
1. MIT SAT Score Requirements
MIT is one of the most competitive universities in the world. While MIT went test-optional during the pandemic, it reinstated SAT score requirements for the Class of 2025.
- Average SAT Score for MIT: 1535
- Middle 50% SAT Score Range:
- Math: 780-800
- EBRW: 730-780
- Ideal SAT Score for MIT Admission: 1550+
2. Harvard SAT Score Requirements
Harvard remains highly selective, with an acceptance rate under 5%.
- Average SAT Score for Harvard: 1520
- Middle 50% SAT Score Range:
- Math: 750-800
- EBRW: 720-780
- Ideal SAT Score for Harvard Admission: 1550+
3. UCLA SAT Score Requirements
The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) follows a test-blind policy, meaning SAT scores are not considered for admissions. However, they can be submitted for course placement purposes.
- Average SAT Score for UCLA: Not applicable for admissions due to test-blind policy.
- Previously Competitive SAT Score (Before Test-Blind Policy): 1400-1550
4. Other Top Universities & Their SAT Score Requirements
Apart from some of the most prestigious universities mentioned above, here are other top universtieis that follow them closely afterwards, with their respective SAT score ranges:
University | Average SAT Score | Middle 50% SAT Range |
Stanford | 1510 | 1450-1560 |
Yale | 1515 | 1460-1570 |
Princeton | 1505 | 1440-1570 |
Columbia | 1500 | 1430-1560 |
University of Chicago | 1510 | 1460-1560 |
University of Pennsylvania | 1500 | 1450-1560 |
Caltech | 1540 | 1490-1570 |
Duke University | 1490 | 1440-1550 |
Northwestern University | 1485 | 1420-1550 |
Johns Hopkins University | 1500 | 1450-1550 |
Dartmouth College | 1480 | 1430-1540 |
Brown University | 1475 | 1420-1530 |
Vanderbilt University | 1490 | 1430-1550 |
Rice University | 1495 | 1440-1550 |
Cornell University | 1470 | 1410-1530 |
University of Southern California | 1450 | 1380-1520 |
University of Michigan | 1435 | 1350-1510 |
New York University (NYU) | 1440 | 1350-1510 |
Carnegie Mellon University | 1490 | 1430-1550 |
Georgetown University | 1445 | 1370-1520 |
SAT Exam Eligibility Criteria
1. Who Can Take the SAT?
There is no strict SAT exam eligibility requirement, but there are a few guidelines:
- SAT Test Age Limit: No official age limit, but most students take it in 11th or 12th grade.
- Eligibility for SAT Exam in India: Students from India can take the SAT after Class 10 or later.
- Eligibility Criteria for SAT: No minimum education requirement, but candidates should check individual university policies for application criteria.
2. SAT Registration & Exam Dates
The SAT is conducted multiple times a year. Students should register early to secure their preferred test date.
How to Improve Your SAT Score
- Follow a Structured Study Plan: Dedicate 3-6 months for SAT prep.
- Take Full-Length Practice Tests: Simulate exam conditions.
- Focus on Weak Areas: Target sections where you score low.
- Use Quality Study Resources: Prep books, online courses, and tutoring.
- Time Management: Improve speed and accuracy under timed conditions.
- Consider Retaking the SAT: Many students improve scores on the second or third attempt.
- Join an SAT Coaching Program: Expert guidance can help improve your score.
Before moving ahead with this article, explore our more such related content:
SAT Dates & Deadlines 2025 |
SAT Score Requirements for Top Colleges |
Top Colleges Accepting SAT in 2025 |
SAT Exam in India: A Comprehensive Guide |
SAT Score Requirements in Top Colleges |
Top Colleges Accepting SAT in 2025 |
CUET Physics Syllabus for CUET 2025 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid in SAT 2025 |
Importance of Practice Tests for SAT Preparation |
What to Expect on SAT Exam Day? |
SAT Superscore: Everything You Need to Know |
Most Common SAT Essay Prompts |
Key Tips to Ace SAT Essays |
What’s a Good SAT Score? |
Importance of Sending SAT Scores Early |
How to send SAT Scores to Top SAT Colleges |
Why Top Colleges are re-instating SAT |
Top 10 SAT Colleges Accepting SAT Scores |
SAT Dates & Deadlines 2025 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid in SAT 2025 | SAT Exam Prepatation, Tips & Strategies |
FAQs on SAT Score Requirements
What is SAT Score in India?
The SAT score in India follows the same 1600-point scale. Indian students can take the SAT to apply for both U.S. and Indian universities that accept SAT scores.
What SAT Score is Needed for Ivy League Schools?
A score of 1500+ is considered competitive for Ivy League universities.
What Happens If My SAT Score is Low?
You can retake the SAT, improve other parts of your application (essays, extracurriculars), or apply to test-optional colleges.
Does the SAT Score Expire?
SAT scores are valid for five years from the test date.
Is 1300 a Good SAT Score?
A 1300 SAT score is good for many universities but may not be competitive for top-tier schools.
How Can I Send My SAT Scores to Colleges?
You can send scores through the College Board website. Four score reports are free if sent within nine days after the test.
Can I Get Into MIT Without an SAT Score?
No, MIT requires SAT scores for the 2025 admissions cycle.
What is a Good SAT Score for Scholarships?
Many scholarships require a score of 1400+, but merit-based awards vary.
Does Harvard Require the SAT for 2025?
Harvard remains test-optional, but strong SAT scores improve chances.
Does Harvard Require the SAT for 2025?
Harvard remains test-optional, but strong SAT scores improve chances.
What if My Dream College is Test-Blind?
Test-blind colleges do not consider SAT scores for admission, so focus on GPA, essays, and extracurriculars instead.
Conclusion
Achieving a high SAT score can significantly enhance your college application, especially for top schools like MIT, Harvard, UCLA and more. While some universities have adopted test-optional or test-blind policies, a competitive SAT score still strengthens your application. Students should aim for 1400+ for competitive universities and 1500+ for Ivy League schools. With proper preparation, time management, and a strategic approach, you can maximize your chances of securing admission to your dream college.Looking for expert guidance on SAT preparation? PrepGenius offers comprehensive SAT coaching programs to help you boost your score and secure admission to top universities. Join us today and take the first step toward your academic success!