SAT and ACT Scores for University of Maryland - College Park

UMD offers a non-binding Early Action option. 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 is recommended as popular majors like computer science have limited seats.

Testing policy has evolved. UMD was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), UMD will require SAT or ACT scores again (with hardship exceptions). In other words, applicants next year must submit test results. Strong test scores help distinguish applicants, particularly for UMD's highly ranked Smith School of Business and Clark School of Engineering.

SAT Scores

When families are curious about UMD SAT or University of Maryland average SAT scores, they find that admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1330–1510. This strong range reflects the high caliber of UMD's incoming class, with CS and engineering programs skewing toward the upper end.

For section detail: the SAT Reading and Writing component (formerly called Evidence-Based Reading & Writing) for UMD's admitted students falls around 650–730 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the reading, writing, and analytical skills UMD expects across its many programs.

On the Math portion, UMD's middle-50% range is about 680–780. This strong performance signals comfort with advanced math—skills that UMD values particularly for its highly ranked STEM and business programs.

If you're wondering about a University of Maryland average SAT, aim for the mid-1400s. UMD evaluates applications holistically and considers your intended major, so scores below 1330 don't automatically disqualify you. But for competitive programs, you'll want scores near the top of the range.

Policy note: UMD 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 UMD SAT scores are evaluated.

ACT Scores

Looking at UMD's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 30–34. This range reflects the variety of programs available, with CS, engineering, and business skewing higher. UMD ACT results cluster in the low 30s, reflecting the school's competitive applicant pool.

By section, admitted students show strength across the board. The middle 50% for ACT English is approximately 27–34, while ACT Math falls around 27–34 as well. Students targeting STEM programs typically score at the higher end of both ranges.

UMD's proximity to Washington, D.C., and its partnerships with federal agencies attract academically strong students from across the region and nation, contributing to the competitive score ranges across all sections.

UMD 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 Maryland average ACT, plan around 33 for competitive programs. Given UMD's program-specific admissions, your target score depends partly on your intended major. Pair strong test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.

Admission Numbers

Here's the reality: UMD's overall admit rate is about 52%, with roughly 50,200 applications for about 26,100 spots (around 4,600 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the University of Maryland average SAT and UMD average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above UMD's 75th percentile (around a 1510 SAT or 34 ACT), you're in stronger territory for competitive programs.

That said, UMD 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, 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 UMD's testing bar for your target program and then strengthen the rest of your profile.