Boston University SAT & ACT Scores

BU first went test-optional for students applying for fall 2021 entry and has extended the policy several times. It now covers applicants through fall 2028 and spring 2029, across all of BU's undergraduate schools and colleges and its scholarship programs. You indicate on the application whether you want your scores considered, and that answer can't be changed after you submit. BU accepts self-reported scores, but enrolling students must send an official score report, and a mismatch can lead to a rescinded enrollment. BU superscores both tests, using your highest score in each section regardless of test date. International applicants must still show English proficiency with the TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test.

BU's 2025–26 Common Data Set reports a middle 50% SAT of 1420–1510 for enrolled first-years who submitted the test, with 1470 at the median. A quarter of those students scored 1510 or higher, and a quarter scored 1420 or lower. In Reading and Writing the range was 700–750, and in Math it was 720–780.

36% of BU's enrolled first-years reported the SAT. Because many students apply without scores, the range describes only the students who chose to share them. BU asks applicants to decide by weighing the totality of their academic record and their contributions in and out of the classroom, and whether that record reflects their ability without scores.

Enrolled students who reported the ACT had a composite range of 33–34 and a median of 34. Section ranges were 34–35 in English and 30–34 in Math.

10% of enrolled first-years sent the ACT, compared with 36% for the SAT. BU superscores the ACT the same way it does the SAT, taking your highest score in each section regardless of date. For that reason, BU recommends sending all your scores if you test more than once.

BU offers two binding early rounds, Early Decision and Early Decision 2, along with Regular Decision. It does not offer Early Action.

For BU, an SAT of 1510 or an ACT of 34 matches the top quarter of enrolled students who submitted scores. A score near the median, 1470 or 34, sits in the middle of that group. If your scores are well below 1420 on the SAT or 33 on the ACT, BU's policy lets you apply without them.

BU says its admissions process is holistic and that decisions are never based on a single factor such as a test score. When you apply without scores, BU reviews the rest of your record, including your academic history and your contributions in and out of the classroom. If you are applying to the College of Fine Arts, check that school's separate portfolio and audition requirements.