Sup everyone, I'm considering Stanford as one of my top choices, but I am a little lost on what their SAT requirements are, especially now with test optional policies. Can someone clarify? Thanks!
Hello! Stanford University has chosen to continue with their test-optional policy for the 2024-2025 application cycle. This means you're not required to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application. This policy aims to lessen stress on students during the testing process and ensures that students who couldn't take the test due to COVID-19 related disruptions are not penalized.
However, if you did take the SAT and you feel that your scores accurately represent your academic capabilities, you're welcome to submit them. If not, your application will be evaluated without an SAT score, instead focusing more on other aspects of your application, such as your GPA, essays, and extracurriculars. Please note that Stanford reviews applications holistically, so all components of your application are important.
If you do want a ball park of where applicants' SAT scores generally fall, keep in mind that in past cycles, the middle 50% of accepted Stanford students generally scored between 1440 and 1570 out of 1600 on the SAT. With the test-optional policy, these score ranges might have shifted a bit, but it could provide a rough estimate.
Remember to showcase your strengths in other areas of your application if you're not submitting test scores. And if you are submitting scores, remember they're just one part of your overall application. Best of luck with your college application journey!
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