According to a U.S. News and World Report ranking released late last month, of the top 10 universities with the highest average SAT scores for first-year students in the 2024-2025 academic year, Duke University, Johns Hopkins University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) topped the list, each with an average SAT score of 1550.
The remaining schools in the top 10 have an average score of 1540.
Students at Duke University. Photo courtesy of Duke University |
The SAT, a standardized test covering Reading, Writing, and Math, has been a key component in U.S. college admissions for years.
According to the ranking, universities with higher average SAT scores not only deliver exceptional education but also demand rigorous preparation and outstanding academic performance from applicants.
The top 10 universities are as follows:
1. Duke University: 1550
Located in North Carolina, Duke is renowned for its diverse programs in business, law, healthcare, and engineering. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a robust alumni network. Duke is also known for its cutting-edge research and vibrant extracurricular scene.
First-year cost (including tuition, housing, meals, and books): $92,000–$93,000
2. Johns Hopkins University: 1550
A global leader in research, Johns Hopkins excels in healthcare and life sciences. With world-class facilities and faculty, it offers students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.
First-year cost: $88,980
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): 1550
MIT leads in technology and innovation, with exceptional programs in engineering, mathematics, and business. It fosters creativity and academic rigor, offering students a challenging yet supportive environment for skill and career development.
First-year cost: $85,960
4. Brown University: 1540
Part of the prestigious Ivy League, Brown is celebrated for its flexible curriculum, allowing students to tailor their academic paths. The university excels in humanities, social sciences, and the arts, encouraging independent thought and creativity.
First-year cost: $88,950
5. Carnegie Mellon University: 1540
Renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts, Carnegie Mellon emphasizes practical skills through industry collaborations and innovative research.
First-year cost: $73,000–$86,000
6. Dartmouth College: 1540
One of the oldest Ivy League schools, Dartmouth offers a wide range of programs in natural sciences, social sciences, and the arts. It also stands out for its rich extracurricular offerings.
First-year cost: $91,300
7. Princeton University: 1540
Princeton is a leader in education and research among the Ivy League, excelling in natural sciences, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. Students benefit from personalized mentoring, cutting-edge research facilities, and a vast alumni network.
First-year cost: $90,700
8. Rice University: 1540
Located in Texas, Rice offers top-tier education with strong student-faculty interaction. Known for its programs in science, engineering, economics, and the arts, the university provides a nurturing environment for holistic development.
First-year cost: $74,000–$86,000
9. Stanford University: 1540
As one of the world’s best universities, Stanford excels in science, engineering, business, and medicine. Its location in Silicon Valley offers students unparalleled opportunities to engage with leading tech companies and participate in innovative projects.
First-year cost: $86,000
10. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn): 1540
Part of the Ivy League, UPenn is recognized for its business and medical programs. The university offers a diverse academic environment and strong connections to prestigious industries and research opportunities.
First-year cost: $76,000–$92,000
According to the College Board, the organization behind the SAT, the national average SAT score for 2024 is 1050. Crimson Education, a well-known college admissions consultancy, notes that students admitted to top-tier universities typically have SAT scores between 1450 and 1550. For Ivy League schools, competitive SAT scores are often around 1560 or higher.
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