SAT still matters at many top colleges — especially for merit scholarships and international applicants. So let’s get 100% clear about what numbers get students into Carleton College.
This is not the marketing version. This is the reality.
SAT Score Ranges: Where Do You Stand?
Here’s what admitted students typically score:
SAT Math
25th – 75th Percentile
SAT Reading
25th – 75th Percentile
- →If you're hitting the 75th percentile (1540), you're a top candidate.
- →If you're around the 25th percentile (1470), you can still get in with strong other factors.
- →Scores below that? Not impossible — but your application must hit hard elsewhere.
Am I competitive enough?
Enter your SAT score to see where you stand in Carleton College’s admission pool.
How Important Is the SAT Here?
Test Optional? Yes, but Many students skip scores… but strong scores help more than ever.
STEM majors: Math score matters more.
Scholarships: Test scores can mean free money.
Bottom line: Submit scores if they elevate your profile, skip them if they drag you down.
What SAT Score Should You Aim For?
Let’s simplify the strategy:
| Type of Applicant | Target Score |
|---|---|
| Competitive | At or above 50th percentile (1510) |
| Highly Competitive | At or above 75th percentile (1540) |
| Scholarship Hopeful | Push above 790 / 770 |
Scores aren’t everything — but a high number buys you leverage.
What If Your Score Isn’t Great?
You can still win. Here’s what can balance a lower SAT:
- Killer essays
- Leadership with actual work behind it
- Spike in one field (sports, CS projects, film)
- Strong AP/IB scores
- Clear why this college fit
Admissions officers don’t need perfection — just proof you’ll thrive here.
International Students: Should You Submit SAT?
Short answer: Yes — if you want scholarships or a top-major admit.
For non-US applicants, the SAT acts like:
- ✓ Proof of academic ability
- ✓ Common ground for comparison
- ✓ A way to earn merit $$
No score = more competition.
Explore Carleton College
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs — SAT & Carleton College Admissions
Is the SAT required here?
If Carleton College is test-optional, no — but recommended if strong.
Should I apply early if my score is weak?
Yes. Early rounds fill seats before scores even matter.
Can a great SAT override a weak GPA?
Sometimes — especially in technical majors.
Are superscores allowed?
Most US colleges superscore (combine your best section scores). Check policy on their admissions site.
Final Word: Play the SAT Smart
A strong score boosts:
Even with test optional, data still wins. If you can score higher — do it. If not — build the rest of the application to compensate.
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