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Study Abroad Content Specialist
Several US universities have recently shifted their admissions policies regarding SAT and ACT requirements. A majority of the universities in USA waived off the SAT or ACT score requirements for undergraduate admission in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some universities like Princeton University, Stanford University, and UPenn have still maintained these waivers for the upcoming intakes, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. However, some other institutes, including many top-ranked universities have reinstated the ACT and SAT score requirements to enhance their admissions process.
Indian students planning to study in USA must know the standardized test requirements of their desired institutes as these are mandatory admission requirements, if required. Although numerous universities in USA allow students to apply for admission without SAT or ACT score, some universities like UPenn, Cornell University, Princeton University and others encourage submission of these scores to enhance your application. Below is a detailed look at the policies of top universities and insights into competitive score range for prospective students who can submit their SAT or ACT scores.
Top Universities in USA for SAT and ACT Waiver
The table below outlines the SAT/ACT requirements for recognized universities in the U.S. It provides information on whether the SAT or ACT is required for the 2024–2025 admissions cycle and any specific conditions for submission.
| THE World University Rankings, 2025 | University | Waiver Type |
|---|---|---|
| #4 | Princeton University | Test optional for 2024 and 2025 but submission of test scores is encouraged |
| #6 | Stanford University | Not required for first-year and transfer students applying in 2024–2025 application cycle.for the Fall 2025. Required for 2025–2026 application cycle for the Fall 2026 entry. |
| #=14 | University of Pennsylvania | Not required for 2024-25 application cycle, but encouraged |
| #=18 | University of California Los Angeles | SAT and ACT scores will not be considered for both admission and scholarships | Scores submitted might be used as an alternative for academic requirements |
| #=18 | Columbia University | Test optional |
| #20 | Cornell University | Test optional but taking either SAT or ACT is encouraged |
| #72 | University of Southern California | Submission of test scores is optional. However, students are asked about their willingness to submit their test scores while applying, the university is ready to wait for the standardized test scores of the applicants. |
| #75 | Boston University | Test optional |
| #=136 | University of Arizona | SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission or merit scholarships, students can submit their test scores to assist themselves with class placement, orientation, or to satisfy core competency requirements |
| #201-250 | University of Illinois at Chicago | Test optional admission policy |
Universities Reinstating SAT ACT Requirements
During the COVID-19 pandemic, most universities adopted test-optional or test-free policies due to challenges in testing accessibility. While some institutions, like MIT and Caltech, have reintroduced mandatory SAT/ACT requirements, others continue to maintain flexible policies to make applications accessible to a broader range of students.
Several top universities, such as Brown University, Dartmouth College, Harvard University, and Yale University, reintroduced test requirements to identify academically strong applicants who may otherwise go unnoticed.
What is a Good SAT or ACT Score?
For students who opt to submit scores of standardized tests in USA, understanding the score ranges can be vital to set realistic targets. Below are benchmarks for assessing competitive scores for both the SAT and ACT.
SAT Scores for Indian Students in USA
A score of 1350 or higher is generally considered competitive for selective universities in USA. Scores above 1050 are considered above average. A “good” score ultimately depends on the universities you are targeting, as each institution may have different benchmarks.
- Total Score: 1600
- Minimum Score: 400
- Average for 2023 Class: 1010
- Above Average: 1050 or higher
- Competitive Score: 1350 (Top 10% of test takers)
ACT Scores for Indian Students in USA
The ACT consists of four sections, each scored from 1 to 36. Understanding score ranges can help students determine their competitiveness.
- Below Average Score Range: 1–16
- Average Score Range: 17–24
- Above Average Score Range: 25–36
For competitive programs, an ACT score above 24 demonstrates strong academic preparation. A score within the 25–36 range showcases a high level of preparedness for college-level coursework.
Also Check: SAT vs ACT
Many US universities, while test-optional, still view scores as valuable indicators of academic potential. You should carefully consider submitting scores when advantageous if the university mentions it as recommended in the eligibility criteria.
FAQs
Ques. Which top US universities still waive SAT and ACT scores?
Ans. Several prestigious U.S. universities, including Princeton University, Stanford University, and the University of Pennsylvania, have maintained SAT/ACT waivers for the 2024-2025 cycle. However, they encourage applicants to submit scores if available, as it may enhance the application.
Ques. Are US universities reinstating SAT/ACT requirements?
Ans. Yes, some top-ranked universities, including MIT, Caltech, Brown, Dartmouth, and Yale, have reinstated SAT/ACT requirements to strengthen their selection process. These schools view standardized scores as valuable indicators of academic readiness.
Ques. What is considered a competitive SAT score for US universities?
Ans. A score of 1350 or higher is generally competitive for selective universities, while scores above 1050 are considered above average. For the 2023 class, the average SAT score was 1010, and a score of 1350 places students in the top 10% of test-takers.
Ques. What is a good ACT score for admission to USA?
Ans. An ACT score above 24 is viewed as strong for competitive programs, while scores within the 25-36 range indicate high academic preparedness.
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