Yale University, renowned for its academic rigor and intellectual community, sets high standards for its applicants. In this article, we’ll explore Yale-specific ACT requirements and ACT scores. Don’t forget to check out our other articles discussing Yale’s SAT stats and requirements!
What is the average ACT score at Yale?
Yale’s average composite ACT score is approximately 35, out of a maximum possible 36 points. This surpasses the national average of about 21. Moreover, the 25th percentile ACT score is 33, while the 75th percentile score is a composite of 35. This range underscores Yale’s high academic standards, but bear in mind that these are just averages, not cut-off scores.
What is the average ACT English score at Yale?
The ACT composite score is the average of a student’s performance across the four test sections: English, mathematics, reading, and science. Currently, the average ACT English score among applicants successfully admitted to Yale falls between 35 (the 25th percentile) and 36 (the 75th percentile). Evidently, the average Yale student who submitted an ACT demonstrates exceptional proficiency in the English section, with a significant proportion achieving perfect or near-perfect scores.
What is the average ACT Math score at Yale?
Yale’s average ACT Math score ranges between the 25th and 75th percentiles of 32 and 35, respectively. Thus, an ACT Math score of 34 would position you among the middle 50% of scorers at Yale. While slightly lower than the English section scores, these Math scores remain impressive. However, Yale, like Harvard and many other schools, does not require applicants to meet a specific benchmark in any section.
What are Yale’s ACT requirements?
Currently, Yale requires applicants to submit standardized test scores. That said, these scores need not be from the SAT or the ACT. Results from AP (Advanced Placement) or IB (International Baccalaureate) exams are also acceptable. Moreover, applicants are still encouraged to submit whatever materials they believe will enhance their application, which could mean submitting results from multiple of these exams. The ACT Writing section is not required.
If you have a standardized test score that you are proud of, and your score compares well with the average Yale SAT scores, you are encouraged to submit it. If you are submitting results from AP or IB exams without SAT or ACT scores, you must submit all results from those exams.
Yale allows applicants to self-report their ACT scores on their applications. However, those who are admitted and plan to enroll are required to submit official score records.
For more information, check out Yale’s Standardized Testing webpage.
What percentage of Yale applicants submit the ACT?
Of all students enrolled at Yale in the fall of 2021, 29% submitted ACT scores. 59% submitted SAT scores, while the remaining 12% did not submit either standardized test score. There is no disadvantage to submitting one over the other or to omitting test scores entirely. The best decision depends on individual circumstances and scores.
Does Yale superscore the ACT?
Yale evaluates applicants based on their highest ACT subscores. While Yale does not generate superscores, they prefer to consider an applicant’s full testing history.
Additionally, Yale allows applicants to use the ACT equivalent of the College Board Score Choice option, which can be beneficial for students who have taken the ACT more than once.
For more information, see Yale’s Standardized Testing FAQs webpage.
What’s a good ACT score for Yale?
Yale does not have set ACT score requirements or cutoffs. There isn’t a single score that applicants must achieve, because applications are reviewed within the applicant’s context and background. Nevertheless, most admitted students have highly competitive scores. Aiming for a score within a point or two of the average would set an applicant up for success.
| Section | 25th | 50th | 75th |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite | 33 | 35 | 35 |
| English | 35 | 35 | 36 |
| Math | 32 | 34 | 35 |
Can I get into Yale with a low ACT?
Getting into Yale with a low ACT score is not impossible. Note that a score at the lower end of Yale’s range is still impressive: the lowest quarter of Yale scorers achieved, on average, a 33. Still, extracurricular achievements and supplemental essays play significant roles in the application process.
When should I take the ACT for Yale?
It’s advisable to take the ACT during the junior spring of high school preceding college application deadlines. Yale asks that Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA) applicants submit results by October at the latest, while Regular Decision applicants should aim to submit results by February at the latest.
What is Yale’s ACT code?
Yale’s ACT code for submitting official test scores is 0618.
While Yale no longer requires applicants to submit ACT or SAT test scores, strong scores can enhance an application. Ultimately, whether to take and submit certain exam scores over others is a personal decision based whether those scores accurately reflect a student’s college preparedness. If you are considering the SAT instead, be sure to explore our breakdown of Yale’s SAT statistics and requirements!
