University of Virginia (UVA), known for its academic excellence and vibrant student life, sets high expectations for its prospective students. This article explores the UVA SAT scores and requirements. Be sure to check out our other post that discusses UVA’s ACT stats and requirements!
What is the average SAT score at the University of Virginia?
As expected, SAT scores at UVA are competitive. The average composite SAT score is around 1490 out of the maximum 1600. The 25th percentile score is 1400, and the 75th percentile is 1540.
This range indicates that 25% of UVA students scored below 1400, and 25% scored above 1540. These statistics not only reflect the high standards of the institution but also demonstrate that there is no single score that applicants must achieve for admission.
What is the average SAT English score at the University of Virginia?
The SAT comprises two sections: the English (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) and the Math section. Each section is scored out of 800, then combined for a total of 1600.
The average SAT English score at UVA is 730. Meanwhile, the 25th percentile score sits at 690 and the 75th percentile reaches an impressive 750. Therefore, an SAT English score below 690 would place you in the lowest 25% of scorers, and a score above 750 would place you in the highest quarter of UVA’s SAT English scores.
What is the average SAT Math score at the University of Virginia?
The average SAT Math score at UVA is 760, which is a bit higher than the average English section score. The 25th percentile of scores falls at 710, and the 75th percentile reaches a near-perfect 790.
From these statistics, we can see that 25% of admitted students scored a 710 or below on their ACT math section. In addition, 25% scored a 790 or above. This indicates that the upper quarter of SAT Math scores at UVA are highly competitive applicants. However, there is no strict expectation that applicants reach a perfect score. In fact, many admitted students do not achieve perfect scores, as their applications are fleshed out with other accomplishments.
What are UVA’s SAT requirements?
For the Fall 2024 and Fall 2025 admission cycles, UVA will maintain their test-optional policy. In other words, applicants need not submit scores in order to get accepted into UVA. Further, admissions officers will not penalize those who do not submit scores in their admissions processes. If you change your mind about submitting test scores after you have already made your decision in your application, you may change that decision up to the application deadline.
Applicants may self-report their SAT scores on their applications. However, admitted students who plan to enroll are required to submit official score reports from the testing agency.
Since the College Board no longer offers the optional essay portion of the SAT, UVA does not require this part of the exam. Additionally, SAT Subject Tests are not required nor expected.
If you would like to learn more about UVA’s admissions processes, check out their FAQs webpage.
What percentage of UVA applicants submit the SAT?
At UVA, 50% of admitted applicants submit SAT scores on average, while around 17% submit ACT scores. Approximately 33% do not submit standardized test scores.
From these statistics, we can see that the SAT remains a popular choice, with nearly three times as many students submitting the SAT as the ACT. Despite this, there is no advantage in choosing one test over the other apart from individual circumstances and preferences. UVA does not prefer one test over the other. In addition, students who go test-optional are not at a disadvantage.
Should I go test-optional?
At UVA, students are not penalized for going test-optional. That said, submitting a high SAT or ACT score can enhance an applicant’s chances for admission to a competitive school like UVA. We recommend that any student with the means to do so takes the SAT and/or ACT. A competitive score can boost your application, and if you don’t score well, you can choose to omit the score on your UVA application without penalty.
On the one hand, if testing doesn’t align with your strengths and abilities, then your lack of a score won’t necessarily make or break your application. On the other hand, if you have a standardized test score that you are proud of, it can only be a benefit. In other words, if your score compares well with the average UVA SAT scores, you are encouraged to submit it, but the decision is ultimately a personal one.
Does UVA superscore the SAT?
UVA does superscore the SAT. This means they consider the highest scores in each section across all test dates submitted. It’s beneficial to submit multiple test scores if they demonstrate your ability more fully than a single test score. The admissions office encourages you to submit all scores knowing that a superscore will be calculated for you.
UVA also allows applicants to use the College Board Score Choice option. This means students can select which test dates to submit scores from.
What’s a good SAT score for UVA?
UVA does not have specific SAT score requirements or cutoffs. UVA accepts a range of SAT scores. That said, most admitted students have high standardized testing scores compared to the national averages.
Consider your scores in the context of the UVA’s average SAT scores. If your scores fall within or above the 25th to 75th percentile ranges, they are likely worth submitting. To be specific, the average composite score is around 1490, so aiming for a score at or above this average would put you in a good position.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1400 | 1490 | 1540 |
| English | 690 | 730 | 750 |
| Math | 710 | 760 | 790 |
Can I get into UVA with a low SAT score?
Getting into UVA with a low SAT score is challenging but possible. A “low” score is relative; below-average scores for UVA are still high compared to the national averages. Additionally, the upper 25% of UVA students scored 1540 or higher, while the lower 25% scored 1400 or below. Thus, if your score is below 1400, you are not out of the running, but if your score is above 1490, you are very well-positioned. With this in mind, it is in an applicant’s best interest to aim for at least the lower quartile score of 1400, if not higher.
Regardless, applicants with strong academic and extracurricular performance will stand out. A student with a below-average score who demonstrates leadership and initiative through extracurricular activities may be judged more favorably than an applicant with an above-average score who doesn’t show similar initiative. Therefore, while scores are important, they are not the only factor to consider.
When should I take the SAT for UVA?
Students applying in the Early Decision (ED) round or Early Action (EA) round must mark whether they’re choosing to go test-optional or not by the application deadline. If you choose to submit scores, you have until November 22 to self-report new scores in the applicant portal. Regular Decision (RD) applicants must submit scores by the application deadline.
Thus, you need to take all SAT exams early enough to have received your results by November 22 if you wish to apply early, and by January 5 if you wish to apply during the RD cycle. We encourage students to take the SAT in the spring of their junior year in order to have enough time to retake the exam if they wish.
You can learn more about UVA’s SAT score submission and deadlines on their Deadlines & Instructions webpage.
What is UVA’s SAT code?
UVA’s SAT code for submitting official test scores is 5820.
While UVA no longer requires applicants to submit standardized test scores, those who do submit them often have high scores. Choosing not to submit scores will not harm an applicant, but a strong score can only benefit an application. The decision to take and submit the SAT is a personal one, based on individual strengths, priorities, and goals. If you are considering taking the ACT, check out our article about UVA’s ACT scores!
