Boston College SAT & ACT Scores

BC first went test-optional for the 2020-21 admission cycle, during the pandemic, and has kept the policy since. Students who apply without scores receive full consideration. At the same time, BC says its internal research shows test scores add measurable value in predicting academic success when used alongside grades, rigor, writing, activities and recommendations, which is why it encourages test-takers to submit. BC superscores both tests, and on the ACT it combines English, Math and Reading from the classic and enhanced versions; Science is optional and not part of the composite. Once you send scores, you can't switch back to applying without them.

In the fall 2024 entering class, the middle 50% of enrolled first-years who reported the SAT scored 1460–1520. The 25th percentile was 1460, the median was 1500 and the 75th percentile was 1520. Section ranges were 710–760 in Reading and Writing and 730–780 in Math.

30% of enrolled first-years in that class submitted SAT scores. Students choose whether to send scores, so the range describes only those who chose to share an SAT. BC also posts more recent score quartiles for test submitters on its test-optional page.

BC reads scores in context, comparing them with what is typical at your high school and in your community, and also in a national context. A superscore at or above 1500 sits in the upper half of enrolled reporters. Because BC encourages test-takers to submit, think carefully before leaving off a score that is close to the range.

Among enrolled first-years who sent the ACT, the middle 50% composite was 33–35, with a median of 34. The English range was 34–35 and the Math range was 30–34. 15% of enrolled first-years submitted the ACT.

BC superscores the ACT using English, Math and Reading, and it can combine sections from the classic and enhanced ACT. A Science score becomes part of your file if you send it but does not count toward the composite. A composite at or above 35 puts you in the top quarter of enrolled ACT submitters.

BC offers two binding rounds, Early Decision I and Early Decision II, plus Regular Decision. There is no Early Action plan. Applicants in either round can be considered for the Gabelli Presidential Scholars Program by applying by BC's November priority scholarship deadline.

If you plan to send scores to BC, aim for an SAT at or above 1520 or an ACT at or above 35, the top quarter of enrolled students who reported them. Because BC says it encourages test-takers to submit and reads scores in the context of your school, a score near or a little below the middle of the range may still be worth sending. Scores far below 1460 are the clearest case for applying test-optional.

BC says scores are one factor among many in a comprehensive review and are never the sole reason for a decision. Its admission committee weighs your grades, what you do outside of school, recommendations from teachers and others, and how you express yourself in writing. These figures describe the fall 2024 entering class from BC's 2024–25 Common Data Set, the newest one BC has posted.