University of Massachusetts Amherst, known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant student life, sets a high standard for its students. In this article, we will explore UMass Amherst’s SAT scores and requirements. Don’t forget to check out our other article that discusses UMass Amherst’s ACT stats and requirements!
What is the average SAT score at UMass Amherst?
UMass Amherst’s SAT scores are competitive, reflecting the university’s commitment to academic excellence. The average SAT score at UMass Amherst is around 1370, out of the maximum SAT score of 1600. The 25th percentile SAT score is 1260, and the 75th percentile is 1480.
These statistics show that 25% of admitted students scored below 1260, and 25% scored above 1480. This range shows that while UMass Amherst has high standards, there is a broad spectrum of scores among admitted students.
What is the average SAT English score at UMass Amherst?
The SAT is divided into two sections: English (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) and Math, each scored out of 800 for a combined total of 1600.
UMass Amherst’s average SAT English score is 680. The 25th percentile score is 630, and the 75th percentile score is 720. Therefore, an SAT English score below 630 would place you in the lowest 25% of scorers, and a score above 720 would place you in the highest 25%.
What is the average SAT Math score at UMass Amherst?
The average SAT Math score at UMass Amherst is 690, slightly higher than the English section score. The 25th percentile score is 630, and the 75th percentile score is 760.
Therefore, the lower 25% of successful applicants scored at or below 630 on their SAT Math section. Meanwhile, the top 25% of successful applicants scored at or above 760 on their SAT Math section. While a perfect score is not required, many students score quite high in the math section of the SAT.
What are UMass Amherst’s SAT requirements?
UMass Amherst is test-optional for first-year entering applicants. This means that you are not required to submit standardized test scores in order to apply to UMass Amherst. That said, students who have taken the SAT or ACT are welcome to send their scores, even while UMass Amherst will review applications without standardized test scores.
UMass Amherst requires all scores to be sent directly from the testing agency. In other words, solely self-reporting your SAT scores on your application is not sufficient.
Note that UMass Amherst neither requires nor expects the SAT Essay section. Additionally, while SAT Subject Tests are not required, UMass Amherst may grant credit for certain SAT Subject (SAT II) exams. Read more about UMass Amherst’s SAT Subject Test policy here.
What percentage of UMass Amherst applicants submit the SAT?
Among successful UMass Amherst applicants, around 30% chose to submit SAT scores. An additional 5% submitted ACT scores. The remaining approximate 65% of UMass Amherst admits opted to omit standardized test scores.
While these statistics show that the majority of students applying to UMass Amherst choose to go test-optional, submitting high SAT or ACT scores can strengthen your application. In addition, although six times as many students decided to send UMass Amherst SAT scores over ACT scores, the university maintains no preference between the two exams.
Read more about UMass Amherst’s admissions here.
Should I go test-optional?
Submitting high SAT or ACT scores can only help an applicant’s chances for admission to a competitive university like UMass Amherst. We encourage any student with the means to do so to take the SAT or ACT. If you achieve a competitive score, it will boost your application. If not, you can choose to omit the score.
When deciding whether to go test-optional, consider your scores in the context of UMass Amherst’s average scores. If your scores fall within or above the 25th to 75th percentile ranges, they are likely worth submitting. Ultimately, this is a personal decision based on your strengths, preferences, and the rest of your application materials.
Does UMass Amherst superscore the SAT?
UMass Amherst does superscore the SAT. This means that their admissions team will consider your best combination of scores from all of your tests. This policy can be beneficial for students who have taken the SAT multiple times. Moreover, you can use the College Board Score Choice option to submit some scores and omit others that you’re less proud of.
What’s a good SAT score for UMass Amherst?
UMass Amherst does not have specific SAT score requirements or cutoffs. However, most admitted students have high standardized testing scores. The average score is around 1370, so aiming for a score at or above the average would be advantageous. The upper 25% of students scored a 1480 or higher. Therefore, a composite SAT score above 1480 would position your application very competitively in the admissions process.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1260 | 1370 | 1480 |
| English | 630 | 680 | 720 |
| Math | 630 | 690 | 760 |
Can I get into UMass Amherst with a low SAT score?
Getting into UMass Amherst with a low SAT score is possible, especially given their test-optional policy. In addition, a lower SAT score can be offset by strong academic and extracurricular achievements. For instance, if you have an impressive transcript demonstrating your abilities in the field of your intended major, you may be more competitive than an applicant with perfect SAT scores but few other accomplishments.
Read more about UMass Amherst’s holistic admissions process here.
When should I take the SAT for UMass Amherst?
Generally, the ideal time to take the SAT is the spring of your junior year. This timing allows you to retake the exam, if necessary, before admissions deadlines.
That said, students applying during the Early Action round must take their last SAT no later than October. Regular Decision applicants must take their last SAT no later than December. If you take the SAT on the last test date before the deadline, be sure to send your scores to UMass Amherst right away to ensure that they will be reviewed with the rest of your application materials.
What is UMass Amherst’s SAT code?
UMass Amherst’s SAT code for submitting official test scores is 3917.
Choosing whether to submit SAT scores to UMass Amherst is a personal decision that should be made based on your individual strengths and goals. While the university no longer requires standardized test scores, submitting a high score can strengthen your application. If you are considering taking the ACT instead, be sure to check out our article about UMass Amherst ACT scores!
