As high school students embark on their college journey, many aspire to attend prestigious institutions that offer a rigorous academic environment and a reputation for excellence. One important measure of academic achievement is the SAT, a standardized test widely used in the college admissions process. In this study, BrokeScholar decided to identify the four-year colleges that boasted the highest SAT scores in both SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and SAT Math. We took into account the SAT scores for the 25th percentile, the 50th percentile (median), and 75th percentile, with each college receiving a score, and then ranked them. All data was sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
From Ivy League institutions to renowned liberal arts colleges, we explored these academic powerhouses, their commitment to intellectual rigor, and the opportunities they provide for students seeking exceptional educational experience. Join us as we uncover the institutions that set the bar high in academic prowess and attract some of the brightest minds across the country.
Read on to find out the colleges with the best SAT scores.
The Colleges With the Highest SAT Scores in the US
There are more standardized tests taken for getting into college, such as the ACT exam, but the SAT is still the one that occupies the popular mind when it comes to applying to a hard school. In order to generate our starting list of colleges, we made our search parameters on the NCES site so that the minimum 25th percentile score for both SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and SAT Math was 680. This created a list of 58 colleges and universities, and from there, we dug into the raw data and crunched it. (See the methodology section for more details).
Here’s a look at the top 50 colleges with highest SAT scores in America:
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 95%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $57,986
MIT is renowned for its strength in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The institution offers a wide range of cutting-edge academic programs, including computer science, electrical engineering, physics, and aerospace engineering. Students at MIT engage in rigorous coursework, hands-on research opportunities, and collaborative projects that foster innovation and problem-solving skills. The emphasis on practical application and interdisciplinary learning prepares graduates to tackle complex real-world challenges and contribute to scientific advancements.
When it comes to the SAT scores of applicants and enrollees, MIT took the No. 1 spot, having the highest SAT scores across the board. The school’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 760, which many other colleges matched. But what’s unique about MIT is that it’s the only college to have a median SAT Math score of a perfect 800.
2. Dartmouth College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,658
Dartmouth College provides a liberal arts education in a vibrant and close-knit community. Known for its strong undergraduate programs, Dartmouth offers majors across various disciplines, such as government, economics, psychology, and biology. The college's focus on undergraduate teaching promotes interactive learning, small class sizes, and close mentorship with professors. Additionally, Dartmouth's unique "D-Plan" allows students to participate in off-campus programs, internships, and research opportunities that enhance their educational experience and global perspective.
Incoming students to Dartmouth College boast a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 760, like No. 1 MIT, as well as a 75th percentile score of 780, also like MIT. In SAT Math, Dartmouth’s scores fall just behind MIT’s, with the median SAT Math score being 790, while both have 75th percentile scores of 800 in this category.
3. Johns Hopkins University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,480
Famous for its leadership in medical research and healthcare, Johns Hopkins University offers a range of academic programs, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields. The university's School of Medicine and Bloomberg School of Public Health are particularly esteemed. Undergraduates at Johns Hopkins benefit from engaging in research projects, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship from world-class faculty. The university's commitment to innovation and discovery prepares students to address critical challenges in healthcare, technology, and scientific exploration.
When it comes to SAT scores of incoming enrollees, Johns Hopkins barely lost out to Dartmouth for second place. The median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 760, just like at Dartmouth, and the median SAT Math score was 790, also like at Dartmouth. What gave Dartmouth a score that’s just a tiny sliver better than Johns Hopkins was that the latter’s 75th percentile score in SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 770, compared to Dartmouth’s 780.
4. Stanford University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 96%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $58,416
Stanford University is recognized for its academic excellence across multiple disciplines. It offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, including engineering, computer science, business, humanities, and social sciences. Stanford's vibrant campus fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting students who are driven to make a positive impact on the world. The university's interdisciplinary approach, coupled with extensive research opportunities and access to cutting-edge resources, allows students to explore their interests and pursue intellectual growth in a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment.
Stanford was kept from ranking higher in this study because of lower scores in its 25th and 75th percentiles. For example, Stanford University’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 760, like the first three colleges on our list, but its 25th percentile score of 730 in this SAT section negatively affected the college’s final ranking. Similarly, Stanford’s median SAT Math score was 790, same as No. 2 Dartmouth and No. 3 Johns Hopkins. However, Stanford’s 25th percentile score for SAT Math was 770 compared to Johns Hopkins corresponding score of 780, hence Stanford University came in as the No. 4 college with the best SAT scores.
5. Harvard University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 97%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $57,261
Harvard University, one of the world's most prestigious institutions, offers a diverse range of academic programs across various fields. From social sciences and humanities to business, law, and medicine, Harvard provides comprehensive educational opportunities. The university's commitment to intellectual exploration, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary study enables students to develop a well-rounded understanding of their chosen fields. With legendary faculty, extensive research facilities, and a rich history, Harvard offers a transformative educational experience that prepares students for leadership roles and impactful contributions in their respective fields.
Harvard came in fifth place among the top-50 list of colleges with the best SAT scores due mainly to one data point falling shy of No. 4 Stanford. Namely, whereas both Stanford and Harvard have median SAT Math scores of 790, Harvard’s 25th percentile score in Math is 760 compared to Stanford’s score of 770. Otherwise, Harvard’s scores for SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, from 25th percentile through the 75th percentile, were the same exact scores as those of No. 4 Stanford.
6. University of Chicago
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 96%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $64,260
The University of Chicago is known for its exacting academic environment and emphasis on critical inquiry and intellectual curiosity. The institution offers a wide range of academic programs, including economics, political science, mathematics, and the humanities. The university's Core Curriculum, a hallmark of its undergraduate education, exposes students to diverse subjects and encourages interdisciplinary thinking. Students at the University of Chicago engage in lively debates, in-depth discussions, and independent research, fostering a deep appreciation for knowledge and critical analysis.
In terms of SAT scores, the University of Chicago tied with Yale University for sixth place. Both schools have the exact same scores for each percentile in both subject areas. The University of Chicago’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 760, like all of the top 10 colleges on our list. The university’s median SAT Math score was 780, down 10 points compared to No. 4 Stanford and No. 5 Harvard’s median Math scores.
6. Yale University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 97%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,250
Yale University provides a liberal arts education that encourages intellectual exploration, interdisciplinary study, and personal growth. The university offers undergraduate programs in various fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. Yale's commitment to undergraduate research, close faculty mentorship, and global engagement opportunities cultivates a vibrant intellectual community. The residential college system fosters a tight-knit community, where students engage in collaborative learning, extracurricular activities, and cultural enrichment, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience.
As mentioned just before, Yale University’s SAT scores exactly match those of the University of Chicago, hence they tied for the No. 6 spot. Yale has a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 760 and a median SAT Math score of 780.
8. Brown University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 96%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $65,146
Brown University offers an innovative and flexible approach to education, allowing students to tailor their academic paths according to their interests. The university offers numerous undergraduate programs, including liberal arts, sciences, engineering, and the arts. Brown's Open Curriculum empowers students to design their own course of study, promoting intellectual curiosity and exploration across diverse disciplines. The university's commitment to interdisciplinary research, experiential learning, and community engagement encourages students to become critical thinkers, creative problem solvers, and active contributors to society. Brown’s main drawback is its cost, being one of only four colleges out of the 58 in our study to have an annual cost of tuition and required fees in excess of $65,000.
Like the situation between the University of Chicago and Yale, Brown University’s SAT scores perfectly align with those of Princeton University, so the schools tied for the No. 8 spot on our list. Once again, Brown University boasts a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 760, as well as a median SAT Math score of 780. What allows Yale to beat out Brown in our ranking is the latter’s 25th percentile score in SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, which is 730 versus Yale’s 740.
8. Princeton University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 98%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $57,410
Princeton University provides a rigorous and comprehensive liberal arts education combined with a strong emphasis on research and scholarship. Undergraduates at Princeton can choose from a range of academic programs, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. The university's renowned faculty, state-of-the-art research facilities, and collaborative learning opportunities enable students to delve deep into their chosen fields. Princeton's focus on critical thinking, leadership development, and global engagement prepares students to tackle complex challenges and make meaningful contributions to society.
Princeton is in a perfect tie with Brown in terms of its SAT scores. Both have the same median scores for SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing — 760 — and SAT Math — 780. Plus, their 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for both SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and SAT Math are exactly the same.
10. Duke University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 96%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,688
Duke University offers a dynamic educational experience that combines strong academics with a radiant campus community. The university offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, social sciences, humanities, and natural sciences. The school ranked as one of the best colleges in North Carolina, in a separate BrokeScholar study. Duke's commitment to interdisciplinary study, research opportunities, and experiential learning allows students to explore their interests and gain practical skills. The university's emphasis on global perspectives, civic engagement, and innovation prepares students to address complex societal issues and drive positive change.
Duke University, which came in 10th place overall, also happens to be the last school to boast a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 760; all colleges after No. 10 Duke have median scores that are less than 760. As for SAT Math, Duke’s median score was 790, while its 75th percentile score for Math was a perfect 800.
11. University of Pennsylvania (UPenn)
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 96%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $63,452
The University of Pennsylvania is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in America, tracing its origins back to 1740. UPenn offers a broad sweep of academic programs across its undergraduate schools, including the College of Arts and Sciences, the School of Engineering and Applied Science, and the Wharton School of Business. With a focus on interdisciplinary studies, Penn encourages students to explore multiple fields of interest and pursue unique combinations of majors and minors. The university's emphasis on research, experiential learning, and an exciting campus community fosters a balanced educational experience that teaches a great deal while also preparing students for success in the real world.
Out of the top 50 colleges with the highest SAT scores, No. 11 UPenn is the first on the list to have a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score that’s less than 760, standing at 750. Its median SAT Math score, on the other hand, is a stellar 790, tying it with the likes of Johns Hopkins and Stanford.
12. Columbia University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 97%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $66,139
Columbia University is distinguished for its academic excellence and offers a diverse array of undergraduate programs. The university's undergraduate schools, such as Columbia College and the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, provide rigorous academic training across various disciplines. Columbia's core curriculum ensures that all students receive a well-rounded education, while its location in New York City offers unparalleled opportunities for internships, cultural immersion, and networking. Of course, the price tag could raise some eyeballs, with an estimated cost of tuition and required fees in excess of $66,000 per year.
With an undergraduate acceptance rate of only 4%, Columbia University is definitely one of the hardest colleges to get into in the US. To get in, your SAT scores need to be very good. Columbia’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 750, while its median SAT Math score was 780. UPenn’s superior median SAT Math score was a big factor in Columbia ranking No. 12 behind its fellow Ivy League school.
13. Rice University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 92%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $54,960
Rice University is known for its strong programs in engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Undergraduates at Rice benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and a collaborative learning environment. The university encourages interdisciplinary study, research engagement, and hands-on experiences. For such an excellent college, boasting a graduation rate of 92% and a highly competitive undergraduate acceptance rate of 9%, Rice University is more affordable compared to most schools that made our top-50 list. Rice's residential college system nurtures a close-knit community where students engage in intellectual discussions, cultural activities, and social events. The university's commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement provides students with a comprehensive education that sets students up for success once they graduate.
Incoming students to Rice University posted a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750, tied with No. 12 Columbia and No. 11 UPenn to name just a few with this same score. For SAT Math, Rice University posted a median score of 790, making it one of only eight schools to have a median Math score of 790.
14. Carnegie Mellon University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,344
Carnegie Mellon University is located in Pittsburgh and is widely recognized for its strengths in computer science, engineering, business, and the arts. The university offers interdisciplinary programs that encourage collaboration across various fields, such as the College of Engineering, the School of Computer Science, and the College of Fine Arts. Carnegie Mellon's approach to education combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, emphasizing experiential learning, research opportunities, and industry partnerships. The university's entrepreneurial spirit and emphasis on innovation promote a dynamic educational experience that equips students with the expertise and know-how to address complex real-world challenges.
Carnegie Mellon just barely managed to beat out Washington University in St. Louis in terms of its SAT scores. Incoming freshmen to Carnegie Mellon managed to achieve a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750, which Washington University did as well. But Carnegie Mellon’s median SAT Math score was a remarkable 790, besting Washington University’s 780.
15. Washington University in St. Louis
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,590
Washington University in St. Louis is a superb private not-for-profit college, with over 8,000 undergraduates and nearly 17,000 students in total. The university provides a wide range of undergraduate programs across its seven undergraduate schools, including arts and sciences, engineering, business, and social work. The university's focus on interdisciplinary education promotes collaboration and intellectual exploration. Washington University's strong emphasis on research, global learning experiences, and community engagement provides students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for leadership roles and societal impact. Notably, Washington University in St. Louis ranked among the best colleges for biology in Missouri.
Although not part of the Ivy League, Washington University in St. Louis has comparable SAT scores to those schools. Its median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750 is tied with No. 14 Carnegie Mellon. And Washington University’s median SAT Math score of 780 means that it ties three Ivy Leaguers — Yale, Brown, and Princeton’s — median score in this area.
16. Northwestern University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 95%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $63,468
Northwestern University presents a diverse range of undergraduate programs across its schools, including arts and sciences, engineering, communication, and journalism. The university's focus on interdisciplinary education, research opportunities, and experiential learning allows students to explore their passions and develop a breadth of knowledge. Northwestern's commitment to fostering a creative and inclusive community nurtures intellectual growth and collaboration. The location near Chicago provides access to internships, cultural institutions, and a thriving professional network, enhancing the educational experience and future career prospects for students.
Northwestern is notoriously difficult to get into, having an undergraduate acceptance rate of just 7%. So, if you’re applying to college at Northwestern, make sure you have the SAT scores to outdo the competition. The median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of incoming freshmen to Northwestern was 750, same as No. 15 Washington University’s median score here. As for SAT Math, Northwestern University’s median score was 780, a score shared with 13 other colleges to make our top-50 list.
16. Vanderbilt University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,348
Vanderbilt University, at home in Nashville, offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, including liberal arts, engineering, business, and music. The university's academic approach combines strong foundational knowledge with interdisciplinary exploration. Vanderbilt emphasizes undergraduate research, experiential learning, and close faculty mentorship, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge scholarship and creative projects. Indeed, Vanderbilt ranked as the No. 1 best college in Tennessee, in a another BrokeScholar study. With its undergraduate population of roughly 7,100 and nearly 13,800 students in total, Vanderbilt University provides major undergraduate and graduate academic routes to pursue.
When it comes to Vanderbilt’s SAT scores, they match Northwestern University’s corresponding scores precisely. Both Northwestern and Vanderbilt have a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750, a median SAT Math score of 780, as well as the same 25th percentile scores and 75th percentile scores for both SAT sections. Hence, Vanderbilt and Northwestern tie for 16th place.
18. Williams College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 95%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,770
Williams College, located in aptly named Williamstown, Massachusetts, is a highly respected liberal arts college known for its commitment to undergraduate education. The college offers a wide range of majors and interdisciplinary programs, allowing students to engage deeply with their academic interests. With small class sizes — boasting a very low student-to-teacher ratio of 6 students to every 1 teacher — and close faculty-student relationships, Williams fosters a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. The college's Oxford-style tutorials and research opportunities provide students with the opportunity to engage in rigorous academic inquiry. Williams College's scenic campus and lively arts and cultural scene further enhance the educational experience.
Williams College is very difficult to get into, having an undergraduate acceptance rate of 8%. First-time students enrolling in Williams have put up very high SAT scores. For SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, Williams College had a median score of 750, and a 75th percentile score of 780, which is higher than No. 16 Vanderbilt and No. 19 NYU’s respective scores there. For SAT Math, Williams pulled off a median score of 780, as well as a 75th percentile score of 790, which though high, was less than Vanderbilt and Northwestern’s scores of 800. Hence, Williams College came in 18th place, being just slightly edged out by those two colleges.
19. New York University (NYU)
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 87%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $58,168
New York University (NYU) offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across multiple disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, engineering, and the arts. With its campus located in the heart of New York City, NYU provides students with access to a dynamic and culturally vibrant environment. The university's emphasis on experiential learning, internships, and global study programs allows students to apply their classroom knowledge to real-world contexts. NYU's distinguished faculty and extensive resources provide a comprehensive educational experience.
With a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750, NYU is tied with 14 other schools that made our top-50 list. NYU’s median SAT Math score of 780 is also tied with several other colleges. What made Williams take 18th place over NYU was the latter’s percentile scores. For example, NYU’s 25th percentile score for SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing was 720, as opposed to 730 for Williams College. What’s more, Williams also beat NYU on the 75th percentile score for SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, which was 780 for Williams to NYU’s 770.
20. Cornell University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $63,200
Cornell University provides a wide range of undergraduate programs across its colleges, including arts and sciences, engineering, agriculture and life sciences, and business. Known for its commitment to both liberal arts and practical education, Cornell provides a collaborative and interdisciplinary learning environment. Students benefit from access to world-class research opportunities, prominent faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities. Cornell's emphasis on experiential learning, innovation, and community engagement equips students with the skills and knowledge to tackle complex global challenges and make meaningful contributions to society. Unfortunately, the cost of attending Cornell will be an expensive enterprise.
For incoming freshmen to Cornell, the median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 750, tied with more than a dozen other colleges on this point. And its median SAT Math score of 780 is also tied with several schools in our top-50 list. Cornell, however, fell behind NYU because of the former’s weaker 25th percentile score for SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: Cornell’s 710 versus NYU’s 720.
21. Harvey Mudd College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,817
Harvey Mudd College, located in Claremont, California, where Claremont McKenna College also resides, is renowned for its focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. The college offers rigorous undergraduate programs in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, and biology. With a strong emphasis on hands-on learning, students engage in collaborative projects, research opportunities, and experiential learning. Harvey Mudd's comprehensive curriculum combines technical expertise with a broad-based education in the humanities and social sciences. What’s more, as part of the Claremont Colleges in California, when you’re a student at Harvey Mudd you can enroll in courses at other colleges in the consortium.
Harvey Mudd College is a small school, with just over 900 students in total, all of them undergraduates. In terms of SAT scores, Harvey Mudd came in 21st place on our list of the top 50 colleges with the highest SAT scores. Harvey Mudd’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 750, which matches No. 20 Cornell University’s respective score, as does Harvey Mudd’s median SAT Math score of 780. What pushed Harvey Mudd down to 21st instead of 20th place was the fact that Cornell boasts a 75th percentile SAT Math score of 800, surpassing Harvey Mudd’s 790 score for the same percentile.
22. Pomona College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $59,238
Pomona College, also located in Claremont like Harvey Mudd, is a liberal arts college known for its academic excellence and emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. With an undergraduate acceptance rate of a mere 7%, Pomona College is hardly one of the easiest colleges to get into in California. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across numerous disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Pomona's small class sizes — the total student body is roughly 1,764, all undergraduates — close faculty mentorship — Pomona has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 7 students to every one instructor — and robust research opportunities allow students to explore their intellectual interests deeply.
Students who got into and enrolled in Pomona College came in with a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750, tied with its neighbor Harvey Mudd’s median score. And for SAT Math, the median score was 770, which is 10 points less than Harvey Mudd’s SAT Math median score. This, in conjunction with Pomona College having a lower 25th percentile Math score (750) than Harvey Mudd (760), bumped Pomona College down to No. 22 on our list of the top 50 colleges with the best SAT scores.
23. Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 97%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,766
The Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering, often simply called Olin College of Engineering or even just Olin College, is a highly selective institution dedicated exclusively to undergraduate engineering education. Located in Needham, Massachusetts, this college offers a comprehensive and innovative curriculum that combines engineering fundamentals with entrepreneurial thinking, design innovation, and hands-on experiences. Olin's project-based approach to learning allows students to tackle real-world problems, work in collaborative teams, and develop practical skills. The college's small class sizes — Olin only has 382 students total, all undergraduates — close student-faculty relationships, thanks to a low student-to-teacher ratio of 8 to 1, and state-of-the-art facilities foster a supportive and creative learning environment, preparing graduates to become leaders and innovators in the engineering field.
As a contender for the college with the highest SAT scores, Olin College came in 23rd place. Across the percentiles, Olin’s SAT Math scores are above-average: Its 25th percentile score was 770, its median score was 780, and its 75th percentile score was 790. However, its median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 740 and its 25th percentile score of 720 are both less than No. 23 Pomona College’s corresponding scores.
24. Bowdoin College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,528
Here is one of a handful of non-Ivy League superstar schools that can be found in Maine — Bowdoin College. Bowdoin is a liberal arts college known for its commitment to intellectual inquiry, civic engagement, and the arts. The college offers a broad range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Bowdoin's curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, writing skills, and interdisciplinary study. The student population at Bowdoin is on the smaller side, with around 1,951 students total, all of them undergraduates. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects, internships, and community-based learning, fostering connections between classroom learning and real-world applications. Your first step, however, is to apply and get accepted and Bowdoin College’s undergraduate admission rate of 9% is a daunting figure.
In terms of SAT scores, Bowdoin College matches or beats Olin College when it comes to SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: Bowdoin’s median score is 750 versus Olin’s 740, and its 25th percentile score and 75th percentile score are the same as Olin College’s. But in the math department, Bowdoin College is outmatched by Olin College. Bowdoin has a median SAT Math score of 770, which is 10 points less than Olin College’s score, and Bowdoin’s 25th percentile score is 740, a full 30 points less than Olin’s corresponding score.
25. Swarthmore College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $59,328
Swarthmore College is located in the town of Swarthmore, several miles southwest of Philadelphia. As a highly regarded liberal arts college for a long time now, Swarthmore is known for its rigorous academic programs and commitment to social responsibility. Despite its small size, having approximately 1,651 total students, all undergraduates, Swarthmore College offers an expansive range of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and engineering. Swarthmore's academic environment fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and collaborative learning. The college's Honors Program allows students to engage deeply in their chosen fields through independent research and close faculty mentorship.
Swarthmore has a shockingly low undergraduate acceptance rate of 7%. And for those happy few students who did enroll, they put up very solid SAT numbers. Swarthmore’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 750 ties multiple colleges in our top-50 list. Additionally, its median SAT Math score of 770 makes it one of just 10 colleges to boast a median Math score of 770.
26. University of Southern California (USC)
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 92%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $64,726
The University of Southern California (USC) is right at home in downtown Los Angeles. It is a private research university with a vast and diverse range of undergraduate programs across various fields, including arts and sciences, business, engineering, cinema, and the arts. USC's interdisciplinary approach to education encourages students to explore multiple fields of study and develop a breadth of knowledge. The university's location in Los Angeles provides unique opportunities for internships, industry connections, and cultural experiences. Regrettably, all this comes at a price as USC is the most expensive college in California, with a hefty annual cost of tuition and required fees.
First-time incoming students to USC achieved some excellent SAT scores. USC’s median SAT Math score of 780 is superior to No. 25 Swarthmore’s median score (770), as is USC’s 25th percentile SAT Math score of 740 (730 for Swarthmore). But Swarthmore largely outdid USC students when it comes to SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing: USC’s median score here was 740 versus Swarthmore’s 750, and USC’s 75th percentile score was 760 versus Swarthmore's 770.
27. Jewish Theological Seminary of America
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 81%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $68,365
The Jewish Theological Seminary of America (JTS), situated on Broadway in New York City, is a prestigious institution dedicated to Jewish education, scholarship, and leadership. JTS offers a range of programs for undergraduate and graduate students interested in Jewish studies, including programs in Jewish history, Bible, Talmud, Jewish philosophy, and education. The seminary's rigorous curriculum, taught by world-class instructors, cultivates a spirit of intellectual exploration, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of Jewish traditions and texts. Perhaps unsurprisingly, JTS is a very small school, with about 144 undergraduates and 348 students in total.
The Jewish Theological Seminary of America isn’t just one of the world’s premiere Jewish education institutions. Students coming into JTS posted very high SAT scores, strong enough to make JTS rank as the No. 27 college with the best SAT scores. The median and SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score at JTS was 750, which is 10 points higher than USC’s median score. And for SAT Math, JTS’s median score was 755, which proved to be an area of weakness, as No. 26 USC has a median SAT Math score of 780.
28. Barnard College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,525
Barnard College, located in New York, New York, is a liberal arts college for women affiliated with Columbia University. The college offers an eclectic range of undergraduate programs spanning various disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Barnard's commitment to women's leadership, gender equity, and academic excellence creates a supportive and empowering environment. Students at Barnard benefit from the resources and opportunities provided by its partnership with Columbia University while also enjoying a cohesive community and dedicated faculty.
Barnard College is one tough school to get into, having an undergraduate admission rate of just 9%. Of those 9% accepted, a massive 66% proceed to then enroll. Incoming students to Barnard posted up a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 745. Barnard’s median SAT Math score was 760, slightly better than JTS’s corresponding median score of 755. However, it was Barnard’s 25th percentile scores in SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and SAT Math that kept it from ranking higher.
29. Tufts University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $65,222
Tufts University, located in Medford, Massachusetts, is a private research university known for its strengths in the liberal arts, sciences, and engineering. The university offers undergraduate programs across various fields, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and the arts. Tufts' interdisciplinary approach encourages students to explore connections between different disciplines and engage in collaborative research and problem-solving. The university's emphasis on active citizenship, global engagement, and civic leadership equips students with the skills and knowledge to address complex societal challenges. Tufts' vibrant campus community and proximity to Boston further enrich the educational experience. But, costing an estimated $65,222 per year in tuition and required fees, does put a slight damper on the idea of going to Tufts.
In terms of SAT scores, Tufts University tied for 29th place alongside the University of Notre Dame. Both schools had the same exact SAT scores for the 25th percentile, the 50th percentile (median), and the 75th percentile for both SAT Math — 740, 770, and 790, respectively — and SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing — 710, 740, and 760, respectively.
29. University of Notre Dame
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 96%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,301
The University of Notre Dame is a Catholic research university that, likely, most Americans know of because of the school’s famous Fighting Irish football program. However, Notre Dame is also a first-rate college academically, notably ranking among the best colleges for neuroscience. Notre Dame offers a wide array of undergraduate programs across various fields, including arts and sciences, business, engineering, and architecture. Notre Dame's commitment to the Catholic intellectual tradition, social justice, and ethical leadership shapes its academic programs and campus culture. Students benefit from small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and opportunities for research, internships, and global study. And with a graduation rate of 96%, Notre Dame is superior to MIT or Dartmouth, which have graduation rates of 95% and 94%, respectively. On the SAT score front, Notre Dame’s figures match those of Tufts exactly, thus leading to the schools tying for 29th place on our list.
31. Claremont McKenna College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,715
Claremont McKenna College is a highly respected West Coast liberal arts college known for its focus on social sciences, economics, and public policy. The college offers a range of undergraduate programs, including majors in economics, government, international relations, and philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE). Claremont McKenna's curriculum combines rigorous academic training with a strong emphasis on experiential learning and leadership development, which are very helpful in the professional world once you graduate from college. Students benefit from close faculty mentorship, small class sizes — with a total student body of only 1,422, mostly undergraduates — and opportunities for internships, research, and community engagement.
With an undergraduate acceptance rate of only 10%, Claremont McKenna is definitely one of the harder schools to get into. Strong SAT scores are a must to get in, as Claremont McKenna’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 740 and its median SAT Math score was 770, with the 75th percentile Math score being very high, at 790. The only reason why Notre Dame ranked higher than Claremont McKenna is because Notre Dame’s 25th percentile SAT Math score of 730 was better than Claremont McKenna’s score of 720.
32. Amherst College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 92%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $64,100
Amherst College in Massachusetts is a distinguished liberal arts college, which is like Williams College, in being as academically rigorous as the Ivy League schools that dot New England. Amherst offers a broad range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines. The college's open curriculum allows students to pursue their academic interests freely, providing flexibility in designing their course of study. Amherst's commitment to intellectual inquiry, critical thinking, and writing proficiency prepares students for a lifetime of learning. Students benefit from close interaction with faculty — no doubt helped by the fact that the total student population is just 1,971, all of them undergraduates — extensive research opportunities, and a vibrant campus community that encourages interdisciplinary exploration and fosters a deep appreciation for the liberal arts.
Amherst College, in terms of SAT scores, was only defeated by No. 31 Claremont McKenna due to Amherst’s lower 25th percentile scores. Amherst’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 740, same as Claremont McKenna. And Amherst’s median SAT Math score was 770, also matching Claremont McKenna. But Amherst’s 25th percentile median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 700 to Claremont McKenna’s 710. At the same time, Amherst’s 25 percentile score for SAT Math was 720 to Claremont McKenna’s 730.
33. Georgetown University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 95%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,052
Georgetown University, located in our nation’s capital, is a world-renowned institution that offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, business, international relations, and health sciences. Known for its emphasis on social justice and global engagement, Georgetown provides students with a holistic educational experience that combines rigorous academics with a commitment to service. Students at Georgetown have access to world-class faculty, research opportunities, and the unique advantage of being located in the heart of Washington, D.C. The university's emphasis on ethical leadership, interdisciplinary study, and cultural diversity prepares graduates to become informed global citizens and leaders in their fields.
Students enrolling in Georgetown University for the first time tallied up a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 740, tying with Amherst College on this figure. However, Georgetown’s median SAT Math score was inferior to Amherst College’s, at 760 versus the latter’s 770.
34. Wellesley College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 92%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,920
Wellesley College is located a little less than 20 miles outside Boston and is a famed women's liberal arts college, especially well known for its academic excellence and commitment to women's education. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences — with bachelor’s degrees in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics and Political Science and Government, General, being particularly notable — natural sciences, and the arts. Wellesley College has just over 2,460 students, all of them undergraduates. Wellesley's emphasis on leadership development, gender equity, and global engagement prepares students, who eventually graduate, for making meaningful contributions to society.
In the realm of SAT scores, Wellesley ranked rather well. Wellesley College’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 740, tied with No. 33 Georgetown and No. 32 Amherst’s median score. For SAT Math, Wellesley fell short of Georgetown’s figures: Wellesley’s median SAT Math score was 750 to Georgetown’s 760; and Wellesley’s 75th percentile Math score was 780 to Georgetown’s 790. Hence why Wellesley College was beaten out by Georgetown University.
35. Northeastern University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 91%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,192
Here’s yet another college that calls Boston home — Northeastern University. This school is a private research university known for its cooperative education (co-op) program, which integrates classroom learning with professional work experience. The university provides a wide selection of undergraduate programs across various fields of study, including business, engineering, computer science, health sciences, and the arts. Northeastern's experiential learning model, combined with strong industry connections, prepares students for successful careers upon graduation. Students have opportunities for internships, research projects, and global study programs, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The university's focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and global engagement prepares its students with the mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Students coming into Northeastern University seemed to display stronger skills in mathematics than reading and writing. Northeastern’s median SAT Math score of 770 is higher than both No. 34 Wellesley and No. 35 Georgetown’s median scores. And Northeastern’s 25th percentile Math score was 740, much better than Georgetown and Wellesley’s score of 710. However, Northeastern’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 730 to Georgetown and Wellesley’s score of 740; and Wellesley also falls short with its 25th percentile score (700) and 75th percentile score (760), both of which are lower than No. 34 Wellesley College’s corresponding values.
36. Carleton College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 91%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,634
Situated in Northfield, south of Minneapolis, Carleton College is a highly respected liberal arts college that’s known for maintaining robust academic programs and rigorous curriculum with an eclectic array of fields to study, such as Biology/Biological Sciences, General, which garnered 58 bachelor’s degrees last academic year; International Relations and Affairs, which earned 51 bachelor’s degrees; and Computer Science, which earned 45 bachelor’s degrees. The college's commitment to undergraduate research, independent study, and experiential learning provides students with opportunities to deepen their understanding of their chosen academic pursuits.
Students taking the SATs who enrolled at Carleton College put up high SAT scores but performed better in the math department. Carleton’s median SAT Math score was 750, compared to a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 740.
37. Emory University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 90%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $57,948
Located in Atlanta, Emory University is a prestigious private research university that offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs across study fields such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, business, and health sciences. Emory's emphasis on intellectual inquiry, interdisciplinary study, and global engagement prepares students to address complex societal challenges. Out of all the four-year schools in the Peach State, Emory is the hardest college to get into in Georgia, having an undergraduate acceptance rate of just 11%. Students have opportunities for research, internships, and community engagement that allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world circumstances.
First-time incoming students to Emory University brought with them high SAT scores. The median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score at Emory was 730, which is less than No. 36 Carleton College’s figure, but tied with No. 35 Northeastern University’s score. In terms of math, incoming students performed better, posting a median SAT Math score of 770 and a 75th percentile score of 790. But Emory’s place in the ranking is held down by weaker SAT scores in the 25th and 75th percentile SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing categories.
38. Haverford College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 90%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $63,628
Haverford College, located in Haverford, Pennsylvania, northwest of Philadelphia, is a highly regarded liberal arts college, well-known for its strong academic programs and commitment to Quaker values. The college offers a range of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Haverford's rigorous academic environment, close faculty-student relationships — there’s only 1,420 students and all of them are undergraduates — and emphasis on cooperative learning help nurture the development critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and ethical engagement. The college's honor code and commitment to social justice and community service provide students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in service of the greater good.
Carrying an admission rate of only 14%, Haverford is one of the hardest schools to get into in the state as well as one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania. In terms of SAT scores you’ll need to aim for, Haverford’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 740 is better than Emory’s median score of 730. In the area of math, however, Haverford falls short of Emory University. Haverford’s median SAT Math score was 760 versus Emory’s 770. Plus, Haverford’s 75th percentile score for SAT Math was 780 versus Emory’s 790.
39. Vassar College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $64,800
Vassar College, located in Poughkeepsie, New York, is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its commitment to intellectual inquiry, artistic expression, and social engagement. Vassar is one of the Seven Sisters colleges, a group of colleges that initially, or have continued to be, women’s colleges with reputations for robust academic curriculum. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Vassar's interdisciplinary curriculum, combined with extensive research opportunities and close faculty mentorship — there are a little over 2,500 students, all of them undergraduates — encourages students to explore connections between different fields of study. The college's vibrant campus community, renowned art collections, and commitment to social justice create an enriching educational environment that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and global awareness.
On the SAT front, Vassar College is no slouch. Students enrolling at Vassar racked up a median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 740, tied both with No. 38 Haverford and No. 40 Middlebury in this regard. For SAT Math, Vassar College posted a median score of 750, which is inferior to Haverford’s 760 median score. On top of that, Vassar College’s 25th percentile SAT Math score, 710, was less than Haverford’s 730 score for the same percentile.
40. Middlebury College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 91%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,460
Middlebury College, located in Vermont, is a highly regarded liberal arts college known for its strong programs in languages, international studies, environmental studies, and the arts. The college offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines, providing students with opportunities for interdisciplinary exploration and intellectual growth. Middlebury is primarily an undergraduate school, having just over 2,850 undergraduates and more than 2,930 students in total. The college's tight community, emphasis on sustainability, and commitment to multiculturalism contribute to a vigorous educational experience that prepares graduates for leadership roles and meaningful contributions to society.
Students enrolling for the first time at Middlebury managed to rack up some solid SAT scores, ones high enough for the school to make our top-50 list of the colleges with the highest SAT scores. Middlebury’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 740, the same median score as No. 39 Vassar College. And its median SAT Math score was 750, also the same median as Vassar College. However, Vassar placed higher up thanks to a superior 25th percentile score of 720 for SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, compared to Middlebury’s score of 710.
41. Boston College (BC)
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 91%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $64,176
Boston College is a well-known and well-regarded private research university, known for its strong academic programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, business, and nursing. The university's emphasis on Jesuit education fosters a commitment to intellectual inquiry, ethical leadership, and social responsibility. Boston College is pretty sizable for a private college, having just under 10,000 undergraduates and more than 15,500 students total. Boston College offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs that provide students with opportunities for interdisciplinary study, research, internships, and service-learning.
Middlebury College only just barely beat out Boston College for 40th place on our list of the colleges with the best SAT scores. Boston College had a lower median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 730, versus Middlebury’s 740. But in the math department, Boston College shines, posting a median SAT Math score of 760, which is better than Middlebury’s median of 750.
42. Colby College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 87%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $63,520
Colby College is just one of a handful of very prestigious liberal arts colleges in Maine. Colby is known for its strong academic programs in fields such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and environmental studies. The college's rigorous curriculum, close faculty-student relationships, and small class sizes — the student population is around 2,260, all of them undergraduates — encourage a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. Colby's commitment to experiential learning, including research opportunities, internships, and study abroad programs, allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. But getting into Colby is your first task and, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of only 8%, this can be difficult to pull off.
Incoming freshmen to Colby have SAT scores that are very similar to those of Middlebury and Boston College but fall a little short of those schools’ figures. While Colby College has the same median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 730 as Boston College, its 75th percentile score of 750 is less than BC’s 760. Colby’s median SAT Math score of 760 also ties with Boston College and Middlebury’s median score here. However, Colby’s 25th percentile Math score was 720 compared to Boston College’s 730, hence the former’s ranking below the latter, ultimately.
43. Hamilton College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 92%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $62,670
Situated in Clinton, New York, Hamilton College is a highly revered liberal arts college known for its academic excellence and commitment to a thoroughly balanced education. The school is home to more than 2,000 students in total, all of them undergraduates. The college offers undergraduate programs ranging across a diverse array of disciplines, with majors in Economic, General, being particularly popular, earning 81 bachelor’s degrees last academic year; this was followed by Biology/Biological Sciences, General, which earned 39 bachelor's degrees; and then Political Science and Government, General, which earned 34 bachelor's degrees.
Getting into Hamilton College is no cake-walk. Hamilton College’s undergraduate acceptance rate is only 12%. Incoming first-time students to Hamilton performed better in math than in reading and writing on the SAT exam. The median SAT Math score at Hamilton was 760, which is better than the median Math scores put up by higher ranking colleges on our top-50 list. However, Hamilton College’s SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores — while, of course, not bad at all — are lower-than-average: The 25th percentile score was 700, the 50th percentile (median) score was 730, and the 75th percentile score was 760.
44. University of Virginia (UVA)
Type of institution: Public institution
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $20,342 for in-state | $55,914 for out-of-state
The University of Virginia, located in Charlottesville, is a preeminent public research university known for its strong academic programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, business, engineering — especially biomedical engineering — and the arts. The university's rigorous curriculum, close faculty mentorship, and research opportunities provide students with a well-rounded educational experience. UVA is home to nearly 17,300 undergraduates and over 26,000 students in total, maintaining a strong sense of community, active campus culture, and commitment to public service.
The University of Virginia is the highest-ranking public college on our list, at No. 44 out of 50. Its median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing of 730 is just as good as No. 41 Boston College, No. 42 Colby College, or No. 43 Hamilton College. And it’s the same story with UVA’s median SAT Math score, which was 760, the same score for the aforementioned three colleges. What pulled UVA’s placement down a bit were its 25th percentile score in SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, which was 690, and its 75th percentile score of 750, both of scores being 10 points less than what Hamilton College’s students managed to score.
45. Case Western Reserve University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 84%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,584
Situated in Cleveland, Ohio, Case Western Reserve University is a topnotch private research university, particularly known for its brilliant programs in engineering, natural sciences, business, medicine, and humanities. The university offers undergraduate programs across various disciplines that provide students with opportunities for interdisciplinary study and research. Admission to Case Western is decidedly on the more competitive side, with the school having an undergraduate acceptance rate off 27%, making it one of the hardest colleges to get into in Ohio.
Not surprisingly, for a school so committed to engineering and science programs, incoming students to Case Western Reserve performed markedly better on the SAT Math section than on the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section. Case Western Reserve’s median SAT Math score was 770, a score which is better than every college’s median Math score up to No. 37 Emory (who also had a median of 770). On the other hand, the median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 720 and the 25th percentile score was 680, both of which are 10 points lower than No. 44 UVA’s respective figures.
46. Washington and Lee University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 94%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,750
Located in Lexington, Virginia, Washington and Lee University is a highly esteemed liberal arts university known for its robust academic programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and pre-law. The university's distinctive curriculum, known as the "W&L Experience," combines rigorous academics with a commitment to honor, integrity, and community engagement. Not surprisingly, Washington and Lee ranked as the No. 2 best college in Virginia. Washington and Lee's small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and emphasis on critical thinking and ethical leadership create a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment. The student body is relatively small, consisting of more than 1,850 undergraduate students and over 2,200 students total.
Case Western Reserve only just barely edged Washington and Lee out for 45th place. Washington and Lee has a better median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score of 730 compared to Case Western’s 720 median score. It also beats Case Western in terms of 25th percentile and 75th percentile SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores. Unfortunately, Washington and Lee’s SAT Math scores can’t match Case Western Reserve’s. The median SAT Math score at Washington and Lee was 750 versus 770 for Case Western.
47. Colgate University
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 91%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $64,290
Colgate University is in Hamilton, New York, and is a prestigious liberal arts college, particularly known for its strong academic programs spanning fields such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. The college's rigorous curriculum, close faculty-student relationships — Colgate’s total student population is over 3,170 students, most of them undergraduates — and emphasis on critical thinking and global engagement provide students with a balance, well-informed education. With an undergraduate admission rate of 12%, it’s tough for applicants to get into Colgate and, not surprisingly, generally requires very good scores on the SATs.
When it comes to SAT scores, incoming students to Colgate matched every single score put up by Washington and Lee students, except for their 75th percentile SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score. Colgate’s 75th percentile score was 750 versus 753 for Washington and Lee.
48. Bates College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 93%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,066
Finally, we come to our last of those superb Maine colleges that ranked on our top-50 list — Bates College. This highly respected liberal arts college has developed a reputation for academic excellence and commitment to social justice. The college offers undergraduate programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts; specifically, majoring in Research and Experimental Psychology, Other (which falls under the broader category of Psychology studies) is the most popular, earning 66 bachelor’s degrees last academic year. Bates College is solely composed of undergraduates, a little over 1,800 students total. As such, Bates College only awards degrees on the bachelor’s level.
All of Bates College’s SAT scores are 700 or higher: Its 50th percentile (median) SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score was 730, while its 25th percentile score was 700 and 7th percentile score was 750 — all of which equal the same SAT scores Colgate University posted for those percentiles. Where Colgate beat Bates College was in one segment of the SAT Math scores, the 75th percentile score: Colgate’s was 780 and Bates College’s was 770.
49. Grinnell College
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 88%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $61,480
Grinnell College is a prestigious liberal arts college located in Iowa, that is primarily known for its compelling academic programs spanning multiple disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and the arts. Grinnell College has a total student population of just under 1,750, all of whom are undergraduates. Thus, the only level of degree awarded at Grinnell is a bachelor’s degree. The college's rigorous curriculum, close faculty-student relationships, and emphasis on independent research and critical thinking provide students with a dynamic educational experience. Some of the most popular majors, based on the number of bachelor's degrees conferred last academic year, include Biochemistry, which earned 42 bachelor's degrees; Computer Science, which earned 41 bachelor's degrees; and Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, which earned 37 bachelor's degrees.
With an undergraduate acceptance rate of a mere 11%, Grinnell College is easily one of hardest colleges in Iowa to get into. The SAT scores put up by incoming first-time students to Grinnell are impressive, with the lowest value being the 25th percentile SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score, at 680. SAT Math scores were a bit stronger, with Grinnell’s median Math score being 750 and its 75th percentile score being 780.
50. University of Richmond
Type of institution: Private, not-for-profit
Graduation rate: 88%
Estimated annual tuition and required fees: $60,330
The University of Richmond is a private liberal arts university known for its strong academic programs across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, business, and leadership studies. Not surprisingly, it ranks among the top five best colleges in Virginia. The university's rigorous curriculum, close faculty mentorship, and emphasis on critical thinking and ethical leadership provide students with a transformative educational experience. The university's commitment to experiential learning, community engagement, and undergraduate research allows students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.
With a median SAT Math score of 750, the University of Richmond managed to tie several other colleges on that point. Richmond’s median SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score, however, was 720, which is inferior to No. 49 Grinnell College’s 730 median score. This majorly contributed to the University of Richmond ranking just behind Grinnell College.
The Bottom Line on the Colleges With the Highest SAT Scores
These top colleges and universities with the best SAT scores display many common characteristics. One is that, with the exception of one college — the University of Virginia — 49 out of the 50 colleges were private not-for-profit institutions. This makes sense once you realize that private not-for-profit institutions include all kinds of highly competitive colleges, be they small, secluded liberal arts colleges, or ancient Ivy League schools, or powerhouse private research colleges like Johns Hopkins or Notre Dame. Another common feature of these 50 colleges with the highest SAT scores is that they tend to be expensive. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees for all 58 colleges analyzed was $60,357 per year. And the only reason why that figure isn’t higher is because the one public college, UVA, has an estimated in-state tuition and fees cost of $20,342, which slightly reduced the average.
The private not-for-profit colleges that so many Americans have come to cherish can get really costly, especially when compared to the cost of attending a public college as a resident of the state. But if your heart is set on one the many academically demanding private colleges, then you should also be searching for ways to save money on school. What’s more, unless you have some “golden ticket” with all your college expenses paid for already, investigating and applying for college scholarships is a must. Check out BrokeScholar’s huge library of college scholarships to see if you can find one that fits you.
Methodology
This study of the colleges with the highest SAT scores was based on data sourced from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Factors analyzed included the following:
-
25th percentile SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score
-
50th percentile (median) SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score – Double weighting
-
75th percentile SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing score
-
25th percentile SAT Math score
-
50th percentile (median) SAT Math score – Double weighting
-
75th percentile SAT Math score
Each college was given a score for these factors, with the scores then added up, and finally ranked from best to worst.
