Harvard SAT Score Requirements: What You Need to Get In

Getting into Harvard is one of the toughest academic challenges, and your SAT score plays a significant role in making your application stand out. While Harvard has adopted a test-optional policy through at least 2026, submitting a strong SAT score can still give you a competitive edge.

This guide covers:

• Harvard’s average SAT score range
• What SAT score you need to be competitive
• Whether you should submit your SAT score
• How to improve your SAT score for Harvard

1. What Is the Average SAT Score for Harvard?

Harvard does not have an official minimum SAT score, but admitted students typically score in the top 1% of all test takers.

Harvard’s 2023-2024 SAT Score Range

Key Takeaways

• A 1460 SAT score puts you in the lower 25% of admitted students.
• A 1550+ SAT score makes you a strong applicant.
• A 1580–1600 SAT score places you in the top 25% of admitted students.

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2. Should You Submit Your SAT Score to Harvard?

Since Harvard is test-optional, you are not required to submit an SAT score. However, submitting a strong score can strengthen your application.

When to Submit Your SAT Score

• If your SAT score is 1520 or higher, submitting it can boost your application.
• If your SAT score is between 1460 and 1520, submitting it may still help if you have a strong GPA, essays, and extracurriculars.

When Not to Submit Your SAT Score

• If your SAT score is below 1460, you may be better off applying without it, especially if your GPA and extracurriculars are strong.

Key Takeaways

• A 1520+ SAT score is competitive.
• A 1460–1520 SAT score is borderline but could help depending on the rest of your application.
• A score below 1460 should only be submitted if the rest of your application is exceptional.

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3. How to Get a High SAT Score for Harvard

A near-perfect SAT score can significantly improve your chances of admission. Here are the best strategies to achieve a high score.

1. Aim for High Section Scores

Harvard superscores the SAT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates.

Target Scores:

• Math: 780–800
• Reading & Writing: 750–800

2. Take Official SAT Practice Tests

• Use official practice tests from the College Board.
• Focus on time management, as many students struggle to finish sections on time.

3. Consider SAT Tutoring

• One-on-one tutoring can help you improve faster.
• Pathways offers expert SAT tutoring with flexible scheduling.

4. Final Thoughts: What SAT Score Do You Need for Harvard?

While Harvard is test-optional, a high SAT score (1520+) can strengthen your application significantly. If your score is below 1460, you may be better off applying test-optional unless you can retake and improve it.

Key Takeaways

• A 1550+ SAT score makes you a strong applicant.
• Harvard superscores, so taking the test multiple times can be beneficial.
• If your SAT is below 1460, consider applying test-optional.

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