The Ivy League has made testing optional for the upcoming admissions cycle, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores. However, it’s important to note that providing good test scores can enhance your chances of getting accepted. But, what is considered a “good” SAT score for Ivy League? And how significantly do these scores impact your chances of admission?
In this article, we will explore these questions in simple terms. We’ll delve into the average SAT and ACT scores of students who have been admitted to each Ivy League school. Additionally, we’ll examine the importance each school places on these scores during the admissions process.
Finally, we’ll discuss effective testing strategies, the level of preparation you should undertake for standardized tests, and the decision of whether to submit your scores or opt for a test-optional application. Let’s begin our exploration!
Average Test Scores for Ivy League Admissions
Check out the average SAT and ACT scores of students admitted to each Ivy League school who submitted standardized test scores. The scores are presented as ranges, indicating that the middle 50% of admitted students scored within these ranges.
- Brown University:
- Average SAT: 1500-1570
- Average ACT: 34-36
- Columbia University:
- Average SAT: 1490-1560
- Average ACT: 34-35
- Cornell University:
- Average SAT: 1450-1560
- Average ACT: 33-35
- Dartmouth College:
- Average SAT: 1440-1560
- Average ACT: 32-35
- Harvard University:
- Average SAT: 1460-1580
- Average ACT: 33-35
- Princeton University:
- Average SAT: 1490-1580
- Average ACT: 33-35
- University of Pennsylvania (UPenn):
- Average SAT: 1510-1560
- Average ACT: 34-36
- Yale University:
- Average SAT: 1460-1560
- Average ACT: 33-35
In these schools, the numbers may vary slightly, but they generally show a similar pattern. All these schools accept students who perform well on standardized tests. Importantly, they treat the ACT and SAT equally without favouring one over the other.
When making admission decisions, these schools consider standardized test scores as a crucial aspect. They use them to validate that your academic abilities, reflected in your GPA and coursework, accurately represent your potential.
Although both high school grades and test scores are evaluated, your grades carry more weight. They are viewed as a more reliable indicator of your college readiness and long-term achievement. Having high grades with average test scores increases your chances of admission compared to having average grades with high test scores.
While test scores usually don’t determine admission, they can be a disqualifying factor. If your standardized test scores significantly fall below the school’s average, admissions officers may question why you struggled and how accurately your grades reflect your abilities. This is especially relevant now as many of these schools have adopted a test-optional policy, allowing applicants to apply without submitting any test scores.
Testing Strategies for Ivy League Admissions
When planning your approach to Ivy League admissions, understanding the testing strategy is crucial. The first big decision is whether you even need to submit test scores. Currently, all Ivy League schools are test-optional, meaning it’s up to you to decide if sharing your SAT or ACT scores is worthwhile.
Consider a few factors before making this decision. Do your test scores align with your overall academic profile? Do they complement the grades you earned in high school, providing a well-rounded view of your academic strengths? Additionally, compare your scores to the school’s average—though getting in with scores below the average is possible, it’s essential to know where you stand among other applicants.
While perfect scores aren’t a must, it’s wise to skip sending scores if they significantly fall below the school’s average. If your scores surpass the 25th percentile, it’s generally beneficial to submit them, especially if your other academic achievements shine. However, remember that a test-optional policy doesn’t mean your application can lack stellar grades, impressive extracurriculars, and fitting essays.
If your scores surpass the school’s average, including them in your application is recommended. While they might not be a game-changer unless exceptionally high, they contribute positively to your overall application narrative.
Also Read: What Are The 12 Ivy League Schools in 2024?
The Future of Test-Optional Admissions in the Ivy League
The Ivy League universities are likely to continue offering test-optional admissions. This benefits both the schools and the students who apply. Universities are evaluated based on the talent of their applicants, including their ACT and SAT scores. Opting for test-optional admissions allows top universities to boost their test score averages artificially, enhancing their competitiveness in rankings.
While many applicants to elite universities excel in standardized tests, some struggle with test-taking. Despite having impressive grades and extracurriculars, their test scores may not measure up. Test-optional admissions provide a smoother path for these students, ensuring their overall excellence is considered.
Although Ivy League schools have adopted test-optional policies, a significant number of students still choose to submit their test scores. Approximately 60% of admitted students include SAT or ACT scores with their applications. While overall submission rates are unclear, this percentage likely reflects the proportion of applicants who submit applications without test scores.
The available data covers only a few years, making future trends uncertain. However, it is expected that the percentage of students submitting test scores will remain consistent unless there is a significant shift in testing or admissions practices. Most Ivy League applicants already possess scores within the desired range, and for those who don’t, test-optional admissions offer an accessible path forward.
Conclusion: What Is A Good SAT Score For The Ivy League?
It’s important to recognize that Ivy League schools are highly respected and hard to get into. This year, some of these schools accepted less than 5% of applicants, and none took more than 10%. To stand a chance, students must submit outstanding applications, and good test scores play a role in that.
This article aims to provide you with insights into the SAT and ACT score expectations of Ivy League schools and offer guidance on applying strategically, irrespective of your scores. We hope this information proves valuable in your pursuit of admission to these prestigious institutions.
