SAT and ACT Scores For Stanford University

Stanford University's admissions are among the most competitive in the world, with an admission rate of just 4%. Applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, though many choose to share their high scores to enhance their applications.

Unlike many other elite institutions, Stanford does not offer an early decision program, but it does provide an early action option, which allows students to apply early without a binding agreement.

The optional nature of standardized tests at Stanford reflects its holistic approach to admissions, considering a broad range of qualities beyond academic metrics.

SAT Scores

  Recommended Score: 1520

Stanford's admitted students often present impressive SAT scores, with the 25th percentile at 1470 and the 75th percentile at 1570. The university recommends a score of 1520, highlighting the high academic standards expected of applicants.

The SAT Reading and Writing scores range from 720 at the 25th percentile to 770 at the 75th percentile. These scores suggest that successful applicants typically possess strong analytical and verbal skills, essential for the rigorous academic environment at Stanford.

In Math, the scores range from 750 at the 25th percentile to a perfect 800 at the 75th percentile, underscoring Stanford’s emphasis on strong quantitative abilities, particularly beneficial for its renowned STEM programs.

Achieving high SAT scores is crucial for applicants who choose to submit them, reflecting the competitive nature of Stanford's admissions process. Applicants should strive to meet or surpass these benchmarks to boost their chances.

Preparation for the SAT should be extensive, with particular focus on achieving excellence in both the verbal and quantitative sections to align with the expected high scores of incoming Stanford students.

ACT Scores

  Recommended Score: 35

The ACT scores for Stanford admissions also illustrate high expectations, with the 25th percentile at 34 and the 75th percentile at 35. A recommended score of 35 further emphasizes the competitive admissions atmosphere.

ACT English scores for admitted students range from 35 at the 25th percentile to 36 at the 75th percentile, indicating the importance of exceptional language skills and the ability to perform well under the pressure of rigorous coursework.

The ACT Math scores range from 31 at the 25th percentile to 33 at the 75th percentile, suggesting a strong but slightly more flexible requirement in mathematical skills compared to other sections.

Although ACT Writing scores are not specified, the overall high ACT scores reflect Stanford's holistic approach, valuing students who excel across multiple disciplines and exhibit well-rounded academic prowess.

Preparation for the ACT should involve a comprehensive review of all sections, with special attention to achieving high scores in English and Math to meet Stanford's stringent criteria.

Admission Numbers

Overall Rating: Extremely Competitive

Here are the applicant and admissions numbers per year for Stanford University:

Gaining admission to Stanford is highly competitive, as evidenced by the low admission rate and the high scores of admitted students. Though SAT and ACT scores are optional, they play a crucial role for those who submit them.

Applicants should aim for top percentile scores in standardized tests, which are indicative of Stanford’s rigorous academic environment and its high expectations.

The stringent admissions criteria and high score requirements underscore Stanford's status as a premier educational institution, seeking students who not only meet but exceed the highest academic and personal standards.