University of Chicago SAT & ACT scores.
University of Chicago is among the most selective universities in the United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), University of Chicago received roughly 37,000 applications and offered admission to only about 2,220 students—an acceptance rate near 6%. That means just around 6 in 100 applicants earn a spot, underscoring University of Chicago's exceptionally high standards and intense competition year after year.
University of Chicago is test-optional, and about 49% of applicants still submit an SAT score — so submitted ranges skew toward higher scorers.
University of Chicago's Early Decision plan is binding. It admits a significant portion of each class (around half of enrolled students often come through ED). Applying Early Decision signals that University of Chicago is your top choice and usually boosts admission chances. However, because ED is binding, students should only use it if University of Chicago is absolutely their first choice.
Testing policy has evolved. University of Chicago was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), University of Chicago 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 who reported scores were at the very top of the national scale, reflecting University of Chicago's rigorous academic profile.
SAT scores
For University of Chicago's average SAT scores, admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1510–1580. This elite band mirrors University of Chicago'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 University of Chicago's admitted students falls around 740–780 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills University of Chicago expects across all majors.
On the Math portion, University of Chicago's middle-50% range is about 770–800. This upper-tier performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that University of Chicago seeks in both STEM and quantitatively rigorous social science applicants.
If you're wondering about a University of Chicago average SAT, aim for the mid-1500s. University of Chicago evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1510 don't automatically disqualify you. But in such a competitive pool, you'll need compensating strengths (like outstanding coursework, unique talents, or leadership impact) to remain viable.
Policy note: University of Chicago 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 University of Chicago SAT scores are evaluated.
ACT scores
Looking at University of Chicago's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 33–35. This implies most admitted students are scoring at or near the top percentile nationally. In other words, University of Chicago ACT results cluster in the mid-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 34–36, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 34 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the strong critical reading and communication skills University of Chicago expects.
ACT Math scores at University of Chicago are similarly high: the middle 50% falls around 31–35. While there's a bit more spread than English, competitive applicants still show very strong quantitative fluency. Many engineering or economics hopefuls, for example, hit scores in the mid-30s on ACT Math.
University of Chicago 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 University of Chicago average ACT, plan around 35. Given University of Chicago's low admit rate, even moving from a 33 to 35 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: University of Chicago's admit rate is only about 6%, with roughly 37,000 applications for about 2,220 spots (around 1,800 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the University of Chicago average SAT and University of Chicago average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above University of Chicago's 75th percentile (around a 1580 SAT or 35 ACT), you're in stronger territory.
That said, University of Chicago emphasizes holistic review. Admissions officers weigh coursework rigor, grades, essays, recommendations, and personal qualities. In a pool full of near-perfect transcripts, however, top-tier SAT/ACT scores help confirm to University of Chicago that you're ready for the academic rigor. In short, scores aren't everything, but they remain a key part of the competitive signal.
Strategy snapshot: If University of Chicago is your clear first choice, applying Early Decision could improve your odds by signaling 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 University of Chicago's testing bar (target near the top of the University of Chicago SAT and ACT ranges) and then win the admissions read with the rest of your profile.
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