SAT and ACT Scores For University of Minnesota Twin Cities

University of Minnesota is among the most selective universities in the United States. In the latest admission cycle (for the Class of 2028), University of Minnesota received roughly 45,000 applications and offered admission to only about 32,850 students—an acceptance rate near 73%. That means just around 73 in 100 applicants earn a spot, underscoring University of Minnesota's high standards and competitive environment year after year.

University of Minnesota's Early Action plan is non-binding. It admits a significant portion of each class (around half of enrolled students often come through EA). Applying Early Action signals that University of Minnesota is your top choice and usually boosts admission chances. However, because EA is non-binding, students can still consider other offers if admitted.

Testing policy has evolved. University of Minnesota was test-optional in recent years, but for the 2025–26 admissions cycle (for fall 2026 entry), University of Minnesota 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 Minnesota's rigorous academic profile.

SAT Scores

  Recommended Score: 1400

When families are curious about University of Minnesota SAT or University of Minnesota average SAT scores, they find that admitted students' middle-50% composite SAT range is roughly 1310–1490. This elite band mirrors University of Minnesota'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 Minnesota's admitted students falls around 640–730 for the middle 50%. These scores reflect the critical reading, writing, and analytical skills University of Minnesota expects across all majors.

On the Math portion, University of Minnesota's middle-50% range is about 670–760. This upper-tier performance signals comfort with advanced algebra, data analysis, and precalculus—skills that University of Minnesota seeks in both STEM and quantitatively rigorous social science applicants.

If you're wondering about a University of Minnesota average SAT, aim for the mid-1400s. University of Minnesota evaluates applications holistically, so scores below 1310 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota SAT scores are evaluated.

ACT Scores

  Recommended Score: 30

Looking at University of Minnesota's ACT range, the middle 50% of composite scores is about 27–32. This implies most admitted students are scoring at or near the top percentile nationally. In other words, University of Minnesota 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 25–34, meaning the average admitted student often scores a 25 or above on this section. These scores demonstrate the strong critical reading and communication skills University of Minnesota expects.

ACT Math scores at University of Minnesota are similarly high: the middle 50% falls around 26–32. 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota average ACT, plan around 32. Given University of Minnesota's low admit rate, even moving from a 27 to 32 can enhance your profile. Pair high test scores with rigorous coursework, standout essays, and meaningful extracurriculars to maximize your chances.

Admission Numbers

Overall Rating: Less Competitive

Here are the applicant and admissions numbers per year for University of Minnesota Twin Cities:

Here's the reality: University of Minnesota's admit rate is only about 73%, with roughly 45,000 applications for about 32,850 spots (around 5,500 students actually enroll). That's why understanding the University of Minnesota average SAT and University of Minnesota average ACT benchmarks matters—they align with the profile of those admitted. If your scores fall near or above University of Minnesota's 75th percentile (around a 1490 SAT or 32 ACT), you're in stronger territory.

That said, University of Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota is your clear first choice, applying Early Action 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 Minnesota's testing bar (target near the top of the University of Minnesota SAT and ACT ranges) and then win the admissions read with the rest of your profile.