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Ivy League Admissions 2025: How SAT/ACT Scores Impact Your Chances

  • Team Vega Visionary
  • May 7
  • 2 min read

The SAT and ACT have long been critical elements of the college admissions process, especially for Ivy League schools. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, many students are left wondering how standardized test scores are weighed in the admissions process. In this post, we explore how Ivy League colleges assess SAT/ACT scores, the average score ranges for these elite institutions, and the colleges that still require SAT scores for the 2025 admissions cycle.


The Role of SAT/ACT Scores in Ivy League Admissions


For students aiming to attend Ivy League universities, standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT play a significant role in the admissions process. However, they are not the only factor considered. Ivy League schools employ a holistic approach, where SAT/ACT scores are just one of many components in a student’s application, including GPA, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and letters of recommendation.


Ivy League universities are known for their rigorous academic standards. While a high SAT or ACT score is important, other elements such as a strong academic record, leadership roles in extracurricular activities, and an impressive personal statement are equally essential. That said, high SAT or ACT scores still act as a benchmark of academic readiness and can significantly improve a student's chances of being accepted.


Average SAT Scores for Ivy League Schools 


Here’s a look at the average SAT score ranges for Ivy League schools, which are often used to gauge the competitiveness of applicants. These ranges reflect the middle 50% of accepted students, meaning 25% scored below the lower range, and 25% scored above the higher range.


SAT scores for Ivy League schools
SAT scores for Ivy League schools


These scores are well above the national average SAT score of approximately 1024. To remain competitive for Ivy League admissions, students typically need to aim for a score above 1500.


SAT/ACT Requirements for 2025 Admissions 


The landscape of standardized testing has been shifting, with many schools adopting test-optional policies in recent years. However, several Ivy League institutions continue to require SAT or ACT scores for applicants. The following universities have reinstated or maintained the SAT/ACT requirement for the Class of 2025 and beyond:


  • Harvard University: Reinstated SAT/ACT requirements for Fall 2025 admissions.

  • Dartmouth College: Became the first Ivy League school to require standardized test scores for the Class of 2029.

  • University of Texas at Austin: Reinstated SAT/ACT requirement for Fall 2025 admissions.

  • Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): Continues to require SAT/ACT scores for admissions.


While many schools have adopted test-optional policies, applicants to Ivy League schools who submit high SAT or ACT scores can demonstrate their academic readiness and potentially improve their chances of acceptance.


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