Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, PA, is known for its strong and varied academic programs. In addition, Lehigh’s admissions team maintains high expectations for their applicants, including with regard to standardized testing scores. This article dives into the details of Lehigh SAT scores and requirements. Be sure to check out our other article that discusses Lehigh’s ACT stats and requirements!
What is the average SAT score at Lehigh?
Lehigh SAT scores are competitive, with the average composite score at around 1410 out of a possible 1600. In addition, the 25th percentile for SAT scores at Lehigh lies at 1340, while the 75th percentile reaches 1490.
These stats indicate that 25% of Lehigh students scored below a 1340. Moreover, another 25% scored above a 1490. These scores reflect the high standards of the institution but also show that there is no single score required for admission.
What is the average SAT English score at Lehigh?
The SAT is divided into two sections: English (reading and writing) and math, each scored out of 800.
Lehigh’s average SAT English score is 690. The 25th percentile score sits at 660 and the 75th percentile score hits 720. Therefore, an SAT English score below 660 would place you in the lowest 25% of scorers, while a score above 720 would place you in the highest quarter of Lehigh’s SAT English scores.
These strong scores indicate the high standards maintained by Lehigh’s admissions team. That said, there is no minimum required score.
What is the average SAT Math score at Lehigh?
The average SAT Math score at Lehigh is 720. Note that this average score is thirty points higher than the average English section score. In addition, the 25th percentile of scores falls at 680, a likely insignificant twenty points higher than the 25th percentile English section scores. Meanwhile, the 75th percentile reaches an impressive 770, fifty points higher than the 75th percentile English section scores.
This indicates that the upper quarter of SAT Math scores at Lehigh are quite high. While 25% of admitted students scored a 680 or below on the math section of the SAT, another 25% scored a 770 or higher. There are likely quite a few perfect SAT Math scorers admitted to Lehigh.
In addition, these scores are notably higher than the English section average scores, indicating an emphasis on applicants’ quantitative reasoning skills. Still, there is no strict expectation that applicants must reach a perfect score.
What are Lehigh’s SAT requirements?
For the academic years 2021-2022, 2022-2023, and 2023-2024, Lehigh will maintain their test-optional policy. This means that applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, although they can choose to submit scores. This policy will be evaluated continuously and extended as necessary, so it is important to stay updated and informed.
Applicants may self-report their SAT scores via the Common Application, Coalition Application, or email. However, if an applicant is admitted and chooses to enroll, official scores must be submitted directly from the College Board or the ACT before the first day of classes for the enrolling semester. Discrepancies in scores of any kind may lead to a reversal of admission.
Lehigh does not require the essay portion of the SAT. SAT Subject Tests are also not required, though college credit may be awarded for certain scores. Read more about Lehigh’s college credit policies here.
What percentage of Lehigh applicants submit the SAT?
For the recent admissions cycle, 37% of admitted applicants submitted SAT scores, while 13% submitted ACT scores. On the other hand, the remaining approximate 50% did not submit standardized test scores.
From these statistics, we can see that there is no advantage to taking one test over the other. For each applicant, the choice should be based on their individual preference and strengths. In addition, going test-optional is the most popular choice, evidencing that Lehigh’s admissions committee provides applications with holistic reviews that do not depend solely on standardized test scores.
Should I go test-optional?
Submitting a high SAT or ACT score can enhance an applicant’s chances for admission to Lehigh. It is recommended that students with the means to do so take the SAT or ACT at least once.
While a competitive score can strengthen an application, while poor scores can be omitted without penalty. Comparing your scores to Lehigh’s averages can help decide whether to submit them. Given that Lehigh’s 25th percentile composite SAT score is a 1340, scores above this benchmark are likely competitive and worth submitting.
Does Lehigh superscore the SAT?
Lehigh does superscore the SAT. In other words, the admissions officers will consider the highest section scores across multiple test dates. They also accept scores from both the current and old versions of the SAT but do not combine sections across different versions. The College Board Score Choice option allows students to select which test dates to submit. Read more about Lehigh’s admissions requirements here.
What’s a good SAT score for Lehigh?
Lehigh does not have specific SAT score requirements or cutoffs, and they do not admit students solely based on their standardized test scores. However, scores within or above the 25th to 75th percentile ranges are a good goal to strive for. Aiming for a composite score around 1410 or higher would help your application become more competitive, as 1410 is the 50th percentile score.
The chart below details the percentile scores at Lehigh. A score within their middle 50% range, 1340 to 1490, would position your application well in the admissions process. That said, a good score for Lehigh can look different depending on your background and the context of your other application materials. Lehigh’s admissions officers consider many factors when determining whether to admit students.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1340 | 1410 | 1490 |
| English | 660 | 690 | 720 |
| Math | 680 | 720 | 770 |
Can I get into Lehigh with a low SAT score?
Admission to Lehigh with a low SAT score is possible, especially considering their holistic review process. A low score, relative to Lehigh’s averages, can be offset by strong academic performance, extracurricular involvement, and compelling personal statements.
In other words, Lehigh values the overall profile of an applicant, including leadership, community service, and other unique attributes. While the lower quartile SAT score at Lehigh is 1340, applicants with scores below this range can still gain admission if they demonstrate strong academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
For more information on the admissions process, visit the Applying to Lehigh webpage.
When should I take the SAT for Lehigh?
The ideal time to take the SAT for Lehigh is during the spring of your junior year. This timing allows you to meet application deadlines. November 1 is the deadline for Early Decision I at Lehigh. January 1 is the deadline for Early Decision II and Regular Decision.
Taking the test well before the deadline also provides time for retakes if necessary. Your SAT score may also guide your college list or your decision whether or not to go test-optional for certain schools.
What is Lehigh’s SAT code?
Lehigh’s SAT code for submitting official test scores is 2365.
While Lehigh’s test-optional policy allows flexibility, submitting strong SAT scores can bolster an application. Deciding whether to take and submit the SAT is a personal decision based on individual strengths, priorities, and goals. If considering the ACT instead, be sure to check out our article about Lehigh ACT scores!
