Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) is known for its strong academic programs and service-oriented community. This article provides a detailed breakdown of Virginia Tech’s SAT score requirements and expectations. If you’re also interested in learning about Virginia Tech’s ACT scores, be sure to check out our other posts!
What is the average SAT score at Virginia Tech?
The average composite SAT score at Virginia Tech is around 1310 out of 1600. The 25th percentile SAT score is 1240, and the 75th percentile score is 1430.
This means that 25% of students admitted to Virginia Tech scored below 1240, and 25% scored above 1430. This range reflects the high standards of the institution but also shows that there is no single score that guarantees admission.
What is the average SAT English score at Virginia Tech?
The SAT consists of two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW), and Math, each scored out of 800.
At Virginia Tech, the average SAT English (EBRW) score is 660. The 25th percentile score is 620, and the 75th percentile score is 700. A score below 620 places you in the lower 25% of admitted students. Furthermore, a score above 700 places you in the top 25% of admitted students.
What is the average SAT Math score at Virginia Tech?
The average SAT Math score at Virginia Tech is 670, which is roughly the same as the English section. The 25th percentile score for Math is 620, and the 75th percentile score is 730.
These statistics indicate that a score below 620 is in the lower quartile, and a score above 730 is in the top quartile of admitted students.
What are Virginia Tech’s SAT requirements?
Virginia Tech’s undergraduate admissions process is test-optional, meaning that applicants are not required to submit standardized test scores. Choosing not to submit SAT scores will not disadvantage applicants. Going test-optional will also not impact scholarship consideration. Virginia Tech emphasizes that “test-optional” truly means test-optional for all applications through all phases of the process.
Applicants can self-report their SAT scores for admission review. However, if admitted and choosing to enroll, students must submit official test scores. Discrepancies between self-reported and official scores could jeopardize a student’s place in the incoming class.
Virginia Tech does not require the optional SAT essay or SAT Subject Tests.
What percentage of Virginia Tech applicants submit the SAT?
At Virginia Tech, roughly 39% of admitted students submitted SAT scores in the 2022-2023 application cycle. In addition, 7% submitted ACT scores, and 54% did not submit standardized test scores.
While the SAT remains a popular choice, there is no inherent advantage in choosing one test over the other. Virginia Tech’s admissions team has no preference between the SAT and the ACT. Moreover, the majority of students did not submit results from either exam.
Should I go test-optional?
Choosing to submit SAT or ACT scores can only enhance an applicant’s chances at Virginia Tech if the scores are competitive. We recommend that any student with the means to do so should take the SAT or ACT. Although going test-optional is the right choice for many students, others may be surprised by their strong scores after preparing for and taking the SAT or ACT.
If your scores are strong, they can boost the application. If not, they can be omitted without penalty. Consider your scores in the context of Virginia Tech’s average ranges to decide whether to submit them. Sending in a strong score can help, but not submitting scores won’t hurt your chances.
Does Virginia Tech superscore the SAT?
Virginia Tech superscores the SAT, meaning they consider the highest section scores across all SAT test dates submitted. This can be beneficial if you have taken the test multiple times and want to showcase your best performance in each section.
What’s a good SAT score for Virginia Tech?
Virginia Tech does not have specific SAT score requirements or cutoffs. However, aiming for a score at or above the average, a composite of 1310, would place you in a strong position. Scores at or above the 25th percentile of 1240 are considered competitive. Scores at or above the 50th percentile of 1310 are considered very competitive.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1240 | 1310 | 1430 |
| English | 620 | 660 | 700 |
| Math | 620 | 670 | 730 |
Can I get into Virginia Tech with a low SAT score?
While it is challenging, getting into Virginia Tech with a lower SAT score is possible, especially given the test-optional policy. The lower quartile SAT score at Virginia Tech is 1240, meaning students in the bottom 25% of admitted students scored at or below this composite. Therefore, a score below 1240 would be considered a “low” score for Virginia Tech. Although the national average composite SAT score is around 1050, an above-average score is expected for Virginia Tech admits.
However, a strong application can still stand out through other components like GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal statements. Standardized test scores are an important part of the Virginia Tech admissions process, but they aren’t the only relevant factor. Students are evaluated holistically, with emphasis put on transcripts and community service experience in addition to other application components. In other words, a well-rounded application doesn’t necessarily include a high SAT score.
When should I take the SAT for Virginia Tech?
The best time to take the SAT for Virginia Tech is typically during the junior spring of high school. Will timeline will allow enough time for potential retakes.
For Early Decision applicants, Virginia Tech requires that SAT scores are self-reported by December 1. Therefore, you must take the SAT early enough to have received your scores by December 1. For Regular Decision applicants, the deadline for self-reported scores is January 31. Thus, you must take your last SAT exam early enough to have received your scores by January 31.
Note that official score reports from the College Board are only required after students are admitted, but before students matriculate. Read more on Virginia Tech’s Dates & Deadlines webpage.
What is Virginia Tech’s SAT code?
Virginia Tech’s SAT code for submitting official test scores is 5859.
While Virginia Tech no longer requires standardized test scores, submitting high scores can strengthen an application. However, choosing not to submit scores will not harm an applicant. Ultimately, the decision to take and submit the SAT is personal and should be based on individual strengths, priorities, and goals.
If you’re also considering taking the ACT, check out our article about Virginia Tech ACT scores!
