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Boston University (BU) SAT Scores: What You Need to Know

Boston University (BU) SAT Scores: What You Need to Know

Discover the latest Boston University (BU) SAT score requirements, average stats, and insider tips to boost your admission chances. Get the full scoop on BU's competitive SAT standards.

Photo: Nathan Dumlao
Admissions
Updated 2026-01
12 min read

Boston University (BU) SAT Scores: What You Need to Know

Discover the latest Boston University (BU) SAT score requirements, average stats, and insider tips to boost your admission chances. Get the full scoop on BU's competitive SAT standards.
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David Park

BU Class of 2025 | ENG

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The Quick Answer

This guide covers boston university (bu) sat scores: what you need to know based on data from Boston University (BU) and patterns observed among successful applicants. Guide to BU provides context that goes beyond official statistics.

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Boston University (BU) SAT Scores: An Overview

As one of the most prestigious private universities in the United States, Boston University (BU) has a reputation for academic excellence and highly competitive admissions. A strong SAT score is crucial for gaining acceptance to BU, so it's important to understand the university's score requirements and average stats.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive into the details of Boston University's SAT expectations, offer insights from current students, and share actionable tips to help you strengthen your application.

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BU SAT Score Requirements

Boston University (BU) considers SAT scores to be an important factor in the admissions process. For the class of 2026, the middle 50% SAT scores ranged from 1360-1500.

This means that the majority of admitted students scored between 1360 and 1500 on the SAT. To be a competitive applicant, you'll want to aim for a score at or above the 1360 mark.

It's worth noting that BU is test-optional for the 2023-2024 academic year, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores. However, providing strong test scores can significantly boost your chances of admission, especially for more selective programs.

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Average SAT Scores at Boston University (BU)

Based on the latest data, the average SAT scores for admitted Boston University (BU) students are as follows:

  • Average SAT Composite Score: 1450
  • Average SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) Score: 730
  • Average SAT Math Score: 720

Keep in mind that these are just the average scores - to be a highly competitive applicant, you'll want to aim for the upper range of these statistics.

It's also important to note that SAT scores are just one component of a holistic application review. BU also places significant weight on factors like your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays.

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Tips for Boosting Your SAT Score for BU Admissions

Pro Tip

If you're aiming to get into Boston University (BU), here are some helpful tips to maximize your SAT performance:

  • Start Preparing Early: Give yourself ample time to study and practice for the SAT. Aim to take the test at least twice to improve your score.
  • Utilize Free Online Resources: Take advantage of free SAT prep materials, practice tests, and tutorials available from the College Board and other educational websites.
  • Focus on Your Weaknesses: Identify the specific areas (math, reading, writing) where you struggle the most and devote extra time to improving those skills.
  • Practice Actively, Not Passively: Simply reading through study guides won't be as effective as actively working through practice problems and past exams.
  • Manage Test-Day Anxiety: Develop strategies to stay calm and focused during the actual SAT administration. Get plenty of rest and eat a healthy meal beforehand.
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BU Student Perspectives on SAT Scores

To get a first-hand account of the SAT experience for Boston University (BU) applicants, we reached out to current BU students and asked them to share their thoughts:

'When I was applying to BU, I was really stressed about my SAT score. I had taken it a few times and just couldn't seem to break that 1400 mark. But in the end, the admissions committee looked at my whole application and I was still accepted. The SAT is just one piece of the puzzle.' - Sarah, Sophomore

'The SAT was definitely a challenge for me, but I ended up doing better than I expected. BU has such high academic standards, so I knew I needed to put in the work to get a competitive score. The test prep classes at my high school were really helpful.' - Alex, Junior

'Honestly, I was pretty confident in my SAT performance. I had been studying for months and felt prepared. When I got my score back and saw I was in the 1500 range, I knew I had a great shot at getting into BU. The admissions process is still nerve-wracking, but the SAT was one less thing to worry about.' - Ethan, Senior

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Mastering the SAT for Boston University (BU) Admissions

In summary, Boston University (BU) has highly competitive SAT score requirements, with the middle 50% of admitted students scoring between 1360-1500. To be a top contender, you'll want to aim for scores at the higher end of that range.

However, it's important to remember that the SAT is just one component of a holistic application review. Factors like your grades, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all carry significant weight as well.

By starting your SAT prep early, utilizing effective study strategies, and managing test-day stress, you can maximize your chances of achieving a standout score that will impress the BU admissions committee. Good luck on your journey to Boston University!

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What Surprises Applicants Most

Many applicants underestimate how much BU's admissions committee values demonstrated interest and authentic connection to the university. Generic essays that could apply to any school are immediately noticeable.

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Key Considerations

When evaluating Boston University (BU) SAT Scores: What You Need to Know, BU students should weigh both the benefits and constraints. No option is perfect for everyone—the right choice depends on your specific priorities, circumstances, and what tradeoffs you're willing to accept.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Boston University (BU) test-optional for 2023-2024?
Yes, Boston University (BU) is test-optional for the 2023-2024 academic year, which means applicants can choose whether or not to submit their SAT or ACT scores.
What is the average SAT composite score for admitted BU students?
The average SAT composite score for admitted Boston University (BU) students is 1450.
How important are SAT scores for getting into Boston University (BU)?
SAT scores are an important factor in the BU admissions process, but they are just one component of a holistic application review. Other key factors include your high school GPA, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal essays.
What is the best way to prepare for the SAT to get into Boston University (BU)?
Some of the best tips for preparing for the SAT to boost your chances of getting into Boston University (BU) include: starting your prep early, utilizing free online resources, focusing on your weakest areas, practicing actively, and managing test-day anxiety.
Do current BU students recommend submitting SAT scores?
Based on the student perspectives shared, current BU students have mixed views on the importance of SAT scores. Some felt the SAT was a major source of stress, while others were confident in their high test performance. Overall, the consensus seems to be that the SAT is just one part of a holistic application, and strong scores can help but aren't absolutely essential for admission.
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