SAT Scores for Admission to Top Washington Colleges

What SAT scores are likely to get you into one of the top Washington colleges or universities? This side-by-side comparison chart shows scores for the middle 50% of enrolled students. If your scores fall within or above these ranges, you're on target for admission to one of these top colleges in Washington. Keep in mind that 25% of enrolled students have scores below those listed.

Top Washington Colleges SAT Scores (mid 50%)
(Learn what these numbers mean)

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ACT Scores for Admission to Top Washington Colleges

By Allen Grove

View the ACT version of this table

The four most selective schools in the state—Gonzaga University, Seattle University, University of Washington, and Whitman College—give students an excellent range of choices from a small private liberal arts college to a large public university. None of the schools have the type of high admissions bar we see with the nation's most selective colleges and universities, and all should be within reach of hard-working, engaged students.

If your SAT scores are below the ranges shown in the table, don't lose hope. Remember that SAT scores are just one part of the application. Selective universities typically have selective admissions, and the admissions folks will judge you as a whole person, not as a numerical matrix of grades and test scores. The admissions officers will want to see a strong academic record that includes challenging courses such as Honors and Advanced Placement. Many schools will also be looking for a winning essay, meaningful extracurricular activities and good letters of recommendation. Strengths in these other areas can help make up for SAT scores that aren't quite ideal.

It's also worth noting that the University of Puget Sound has test-optional admissions. Applicants can choose to write two short essays instead of submitting standardized test scores.

If your SAT scores fall comfortably within the range of scores shown in the table and you have good grades in a strong college preparatory curriculum, you can consider the college a match school. If you're down at the low end of the range or below the 25th percentile number, you'd be wise to consider the college a reach school. It's important to have a good balance of match, reach, and safety schools as you create your college wish list.

Data from the National Center for Educational Statistics