The College of William & Mary (W&M), the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States, is a renowned public research university steeped in over 300 years of history. In this article, we will dive into the W&M SAT scores and requirements. Be sure to check out our other post that discusses W&M’s ACT stats and requirements!
What is the average SAT score at William & Mary?
William & Mary’s SAT scores reflect the competitive nature of its admissions. The average SAT score is around 1378 out of 1600. The 25th percentile SAT score is 1290, and the 75th percentile is 1500.
These statistics indicate that 25% of William & Mary students scored below 1290, while another 25% scored above 1500. These ranges highlight the university’s high standards but also show that there is no single score required for admission.
What is the average SAT English score at William & Mary?
The SAT is divided into two sections: English (Reading and Writing) and Math. Each section is scored out of 800, contributing to the combined total SAT score.
William & Mary’s average SAT English score is 730, with a 25th percentile score of 695 and a 75th percentile score of 750. A score lower than 695 places you in the lowest 25% of scorers, while a score higher than 750 places you in the top 25%.
What is the average SAT Math score at William & Mary?
The average SAT Math score at William & Mary is 730, identical to the English section score. The 25th percentile score is 680, and the 75th percentile is 770.
These scores indicate that the top quarter of students admitted to W&M achieved a 770 or higher on their SAT Math section. Meanwhile, the lowest quarter of admitted students scored at or below 680. These scores are well above the national average, which hovers around 510 for the SAT Math section. That said, there is no expectation for you to submit a perfect score.
What are William & Mary’s SAT requirements?
William & Mary has extended its test-optional policy indefinitely, allowing applicants to decide whether to include SAT or ACT scores as part of their application. The admissions team will review applications holistically, instead of relying on standardized test scores as a deciding factor.
Applicants may self-report their SAT scores in their application. However, admitted students must submit official scores at the time of enrollment.
Note that W&M does not require the SAT Essay, as the admissions officers prefer to evaluate students’ writing abilities through their college essays. Lastly, SAT Subject Tests are not required, although students with non-traditional educational backgrounds (such as home-schooled students) may benefit from submitting additional standardized test scores, such as the SAT II exams.
What percentage of William & Mary applicants submit the SAT?
Among students admitted to W&M, 52% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while 18% submitted ACT scores. Further, around 30% of W&M admits omitted standardized test scores from their application.
From these statistics, it is clear that the SAT remains a popular choice, with almost three times as many students opting to submit the SAT over the ACT. Nevertheless, there is no advantage in choosing one test over the other beyond personal preference and circumstance.
Should I go test-optional?
Submitting high SAT or ACT scores can enhance an applicant’s chances at a competitive school like William & Mary. However, the university’s holistic review process means that strong performance in other areas can also make a significant impact. If your SAT scores fall within or above the 25th to 75th percentile ranges, they might be worth submitting.
In any case, we recommend that all students who are able study for and take the SAT and/or ACT. If you test well, your score can be an asset to your application. If not, you can leave the score off your application without penalty.
For more information, check out William & Mary’s Test-Optional FAQ webpage.
Does William & Mary superscore the SAT?
Yes, William & Mary superscores the SAT. This means that they consider the highest section scores across all test dates. This policy benefits applicants who have taken the SAT more than once.
Applicants are encouraged to submit multiple scores if it reflects their abilities more accurately. That said, students may take advantage of the College Board Score Choice option to submit only their highest SAT scores to W&M.
What’s a good SAT score for William & Mary?
While there are no specific score requirements, aiming for scores at or above the 50th percentile is advisable. For William & Mary, the 50th percentile composite SAT score is a strong 1378. If your score exceeds this benchmark, you have a competitive test score. If your score exceeds the 75th percentile for William & Mary, which is an impressive 1500, then you’re well-positioned.
Of course, remember that your application is reviewed holistically. If your other application materials aren’t strong, then your William & Mary SAT scores are less valuable. On the flip-side, application materials like strong essays, recommendation letters, and transcripts can make up for a weaker SAT score.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1290 | 1378 | 1500 |
| English | 695 | 730 | 750 |
| Math | 680 | 730 | 770 |
Can I get into William & Mary with a low SAT score?
While a lower SAT score makes admission more challenging, it is still possible. William & Mary evaluates applicants holistically, considering academic and extracurricular performance. Strong leadership, community service, and other achievements can significantly bolster an application.
That said, note that a “low” SAT score for William & Mary would still most likely exceed the national averages. To be specific, the national average composite SAT score is around 1050, while the lowest quartile SAT scores at W&M go up to 1290. Therefore, although 25% of students admitted to W&M scored at or below 1290 on their SAT, it is in an applicant’s best interest to strive for a composite score greater than 1290.
When should I take the SAT for William & Mary?
For students applying for the fall semester, the SAT should ideally be taken by the junior spring semester. Early Decision I applicants must submit scores by November 1. Early Decision II and Regular Decision applications are due January 5. Transfer applicants must submit by March 1.
In order for your SAT score to be considered by W&M, you must self-report and/or officially report your score by the appropriate deadline. SAT scores generally take 2-4 weeks, so you are encouraged to take your last SAT exam at least a month before the appropriate deadline.
What is William & Mary’s SAT code?
William & Mary’s SAT code for submitting official test scores is 5115.
While standardized test scores are no longer a requirement at William & Mary, most students submitting test results scored highly. Ultimately, the decision to take and submit the SAT should be based on each student’s strengths, priorities, and goals. If you are also considering the ACT, check out our article on William & Mary’s ACT scores!
