Tulane University SAT & ACT scores.
Tulane University is one of the most selective private research universities in the southern United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), Tulane received roughly 45,500 applications and offered admission to only about 4,550 students—an acceptance rate near 10%. That means just around 10 in 100 applicants earn a spot, underscoring Tulane's exceptionally high standards and intense competition year after year.
Tulane University is test-optional, and about 15% of applicants still submit an SAT score — so submitted ranges skew toward higher scorers.
Tulane offers both a binding Early Decision plan (with two rounds: ED I and ED II) and a non-binding Early Action option. Applying Early Decision signals that Tulane is your top choice and usually boosts admission chances. Early Action lets you receive a decision sooner while keeping your options open. Given Tulane's low acceptance rate, demonstrating strong interest through ED or EA can be strategically important.
Testing policy has evolved. Tulane has been test-optional and continues to allow applicants to choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores for the 2025–26 admissions cycle. If you have strong scores, submitting them can strengthen your application. If not, Tulane will evaluate you based on other factors. Even among those who chose not to submit, successful applicants demonstrated exceptional academic records and personal qualities.
SAT scores
For Tulane's average SAT scores, admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1360–1510. This elite band mirrors Tulane's high academic expectations and means admitted students typically score near the top of the national distribution.
For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for Tulane's admitted students falls around 680–740 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills Tulane expects across all majors.
On the Math portion, Tulane's middle-50% range is about 680–770. This upper-tier performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that Tulane seeks in both STEM and quantitatively rigorous social science applicants.
If you're wondering about a Tulane average SAT, aim for the mid-1400s. Tulane evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1360 don't automatically disqualify you—especially since the school is test-optional. But in such a competitive pool, strong scores can meaningfully bolster your application.
Policy note: Tulane superscores the SAT. They consider your highest Reading and Writing and Math section scores from all test dates. In practice, this means a weak section can be improved with a retake, boosting how your Tulane SAT scores are evaluated.
ACT scores
Looking at Tulane's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 30–33. This implies most admitted students are scoring at or near the top percentile nationally. In other words, Tulane ACT results cluster in the low 30s, reflecting the school's competitive applicant pool.
By section, admitted students tend to excel in English (ACT Reading and Writing). The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 31–35, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 31 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the strong critical reading and communication skills Tulane expects.
ACT Math scores at Tulane are similarly strong: the middle 50% falls around 27–32. While there's a bit more spread than English, competitive applicants still show solid quantitative fluency. Students targeting business or pre-med tracks often aim for the upper end of this range.
Tulane superscores the ACT just as it does the SAT, taking the highest section scores across multiple test dates. The optional writing section is not required, but applicants may submit it if it strengthens their profile. Using superscoring, you can focus on improving any weaker sections in additional attempts.
If you're estimating a Tulane average ACT, plan around 33. Given Tulane's low admit rate, even moving from a 30 to 33 can enhance your profile. Pair high test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.
Admission numbers
Here's the reality: Tulane's admit rate is only about 10%, with roughly 45,500 applications for about 4,550 spots (around 1,800 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the Tulane average SAT and Tulane average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above Tulane's 75th percentile (around a 1510 SAT or 33 ACT), you're in stronger territory.
That said, Tulane emphasizes holistic review. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities. As a test-optional school, Tulane genuinely considers applications without scores—but if you have strong results, submitting them adds another data point in your favor.
Strategy snapshot: If Tulane is your clear first choice, applying Early Decision (ED I or ED II) could improve your odds by signaling commitment. Early Action is also available if you want an earlier decision without the binding commitment. Take advantage of superscoring by retaking tests to shore up any weak section. Also balance test prep with maintaining strong senior-year classes and crafting compelling essays. Meet Tulane's testing bar and then win the admissions read with the rest of your profile.
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