Yale University SAT Scores: Full Breakdown

Yale University, one of the most competitive universities in the country, has a high standard for its applicants. This article goes into a deep-dive about its SAT scores. Be sure to check out our other blog posts that discuss other universities and their SAT stats.

SAT Score Range

Average composite score: approximately 1540
25th percentile: 1500
75th percentile: 1560

This means that around 25% of admitted students scored below 1500, and 25% scored above 1560. So, there isn't exactly one score that fits all for Yale, but that doesn't exactly mean it's easy to get in either.

Section Breakdown

Evidence-Based Reading & Writing (EBRW): average 760, with a 25th percentile around 740 and 75th around 780
Math: average 780, with 25th percentile 760 and 75th percentile 800

Testing Policy

Yale now requires standardized test results for applicants submitting for Fall 2025 and beyond (Class of 2029). You can satisfy this requirement with scores from:

SAT
ACT
AP exams
IB exams

This test-flexible policy shows that you get to choose the test type that best highlights your academic strengths, so don't feel pressured just to stick to the SAT.

What This Means for You

If your SAT is in the 1500–1560 range and your section scores are around 740+ in reading/writing and 760+ in math, you're within Yale's typical middle 50%. Scoring above those percentiles can strengthen your application, but Yale reviews everything else you bring, so be sure to bring your A-game towards your essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and course rigor.

Check out our other blog posts so we can help you on your college admissions journey!