SAT and ACT Scores for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

UIUC offers an Early Action option that is non-binding. Applying Early Action allows you to receive your decision sooner while still keeping your options open. There is no Early Decision plan. For competitive programs, applying EA can be advantageous as some majors fill quickly in the regular round.

Testing policy has evolved. UIUC was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), UIUC will require SAT or ACT scores again (with hardship exceptions). In other words, applicants next year must submit test results. Even before this change, nearly all successful applicants to top UIUC programs who reported scores were at the very top of the national scale, reflecting the university's rigorous academic profile.

SAT Scores

When families are curious about UIUC SAT or UIUC average SAT scores, they find that admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1320–1510. This range reflects the broad academic strength of UIUC's incoming class, with top programs like engineering and CS skewing toward the upper end.

For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for UIUC's admitted students falls around 640–730 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills UIUC expects across all majors.

On the Math portion, UIUC's middle-50% range is about 680–780. This strong performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that UIUC seeks particularly in its highly ranked STEM programs.

If you're wondering about a UIUC average SAT, aim for the mid-1400s. UIUC evaluates applications holistically and considers your intended major, so scores below 1320 don't automatically disqualify you. But for competitive programs, you'll need scores near the top of the range along with strong coursework and activities.

Policy note: UIUC 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 UIUC SAT scores are evaluated.

ACT Scores

Looking at UIUC's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 29–34. This broad range reflects the variety of programs available, from highly selective engineering to more accessible liberal arts majors. In other words, UIUC ACT results span a wide band, with top programs clustering in the low-to-mid 30s.

By section, admitted students tend to perform well in English (ACT Reading and Writing). The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 29–35, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 29 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the reading and communication skills UIUC expects.

ACT Math scores at UIUC are similarly strong: the middle 50% falls around 28–34. Students targeting engineering, computer science, or business programs typically need scores at the higher end of this range to be competitive.

UIUC 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 UIUC average ACT, plan around 33 for competitive programs. Given the major-specific nature of UIUC admissions, your target score depends partly on your intended field. Pair strong test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.

Admission Numbers

Here's the reality: UIUC's overall admit rate is about 60%, with roughly 47,600 applications for about 28,500 spots (around 8,200 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the UIUC average SAT and UIUC average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above UIUC's 75th percentile (around a 1510 SAT or 34 ACT), you're in stronger territory, especially for competitive majors.

That said, UIUC considers your intended major heavily in the admissions process. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, and personal qualities alongside test scores. For highly competitive programs like computer science and engineering, the effective admit rate is much lower and the expected score ranges are higher.

Strategy snapshot: Apply Early Action to receive your decision sooner and signal interest, especially for competitive programs. 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 UIUC's testing bar for your target program and then strengthen the rest of your profile.