Syracuse University SAT & ACT Scores

Syracuse has been test-optional since 2021 and has extended the policy through students applying for spring 2028 admission. It says applicants who don't submit scores are not disadvantaged and remain eligible for merit scholarships. If you do share scores, you can self-report them on the Common App or Coalition App, and official reports are needed only if you are admitted and decide to enroll. Report your scores exactly as you received them, and Syracuse will superscore them. If you send both tests, it considers whichever is higher.

Enrolled first-years in the fall 2025 entering class who reported the SAT had a middle 50% range of 1300–1410 and a median of 1350. Their Reading and Writing scores ran 650–720 and their Math scores ran 640–710.

Only 23% of the enrolled class reported SAT scores, and 8% reported the ACT, so most Syracuse first-years enrolled without scores in their file. These ranges describe only the minority who chose to share an SAT score.

Syracuse builds your SAT superscore from your best section scores across test dates. A superscore at or above 1350 puts you in the upper half of enrolled SAT submitters, and 1410 or higher puts you in the top quarter. A score below 1300 sits in the bottom quarter of the students who chose to share one.

8% of enrolled first-years in the fall 2025 entering class reported the ACT. Their middle 50% composite was 29–33, with a median of 31. English scores ran 29–35 and Math scores ran 26–31.

Because so few students sent the ACT, this range describes a small group. Syracuse superscores ACT results as well, so report each sitting exactly as you received it, and the writing section is not required. A composite of 33 or higher is in the top quarter of enrolled ACT submitters.

There are four ways to apply for fall. Binding Early Decision I is due in early November, with most decisions before January. Binding Early Decision II is due in early January, with decisions by mid-February. Non-binding Early Action, new for fall 2027 applicants, is due in early November, with decisions typically in early February. Regular Decision is due in early January, with decisions in late March.

If you plan to send scores to Syracuse for fall 2027, aim for an SAT at or above 1350 or an ACT at or above 31; 1410 or 33 puts you in the top quarter of enrolled submitters. If your best score is below 1300 or 29, applying without it is a reasonable choice, since Syracuse says students who don't submit are not disadvantaged.

Syracuse calls academic performance a significant factor, especially your senior-year work, and it values honors, Advanced Placement and meaningful electives. It reads your grades in the context of your high school's profile. A counselor evaluation and one academic teacher recommendation are part of the file, along with your activities, volunteer work and employment. Some programs in art, design, drama and music also require a portfolio or audition, which faculty evaluate.