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What SAT Score Do You Need for Harvard University?

Here's the SAT and ACT score to aim for at Harvard University — based on the latest U.S. Department of Education data — and exactly how to get there.

Average SAT

1,553

Admitted students

ACT Composite

35

Median (midpoint)

Acceptance Rate

4%

Most recent year

The score to aim for

The average SAT score of admitted students at Harvard University is about 1553. Admissions data reports a midpoint, which means roughly half of admitted students scored above it. To put yourself comfortably in range, aim for 1580 or higher.

Prefer the ACT? The median composite at Harvard University is around 35. A score near 36 puts you in a strong position.

The hardest part of raising a score isn't studying more — it's knowing exactly which skillsare costing you points. That's where a diagnostic comes in.

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See exactly where you stand for Harvard University

Take a free 30-minute adaptive diagnostic. We'll map every SAT or ACT skill, show your estimated score, and build a personalized plan to reach 1580+.

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Frequently asked questions

What SAT score do you need for Harvard University?

The average SAT score of admitted students at Harvard University is about 1553. To be a competitive applicant, aim for roughly 1580 or higher.

What ACT score do you need for Harvard University?

The median ACT composite at Harvard University is around 35. Aiming for about 36 puts you in a strong position.

How hard is it to get into Harvard University?

Harvard University admits about 4% of applicants, so admission is highly competitive. A strong test score is one of the clearest ways to stand out.

Score and admissions data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, updated periodically. Figures reflect the most recent reporting year and may differ from the school's own published statistics.