Ranked 42nd in the QS World Rankings 2025, UCLA is a hub of academic and cultural excellence. With a lively student body of approximately 46,000, including over 6,500 international students, it’s a popular destination for ambitious learners worldwide.
For Indian students, securing a competitive UCLA SAT score plays a crucial role in meeting admission requirements. The SAT tests your Math and English skills, which are vital for showcasing your academic readiness.
This guide gets into the details of the UCLA SAT requirements, covering everything from required UCLA SAT scores to preparation strategies and score submission timelines to help you confidently navigate the application process. Read on!
Key Highlights
Here is a quick overview of everything you will learn in this blog on UCLA SAT scores.
| Particulars | Description |
|---|---|
| Average SAT Score for UCLA | 1400 |
| Minimum SAT Score for UCLA | 1290 to 1510 |
| UCLA SAT College Code | 4837 |
What is the Average SAT Score at UCLA?
UCLA’s competitive admissions process makes meeting the UCLA SAT requirements crucial. Admission officers use these scores to gauge your academic readiness.
The average SAT score for UCLA ranges from 1290 to 1510 out of 1600. Scoring within or above this range highlights your strengths in Maths and English, key areas valued by UCLA, and improves your chances in the selection process.
What is the Average SAT English Score at UCLA?
For the SAT English section, also called Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, the average SAT score for UCLA ranges between 640 and 740. Scoring in this range demonstrates your ability to analyse complex texts and communicate clearly. UCLA highly values these skills.
What is the Average SAT Math Score at UCLA?
In the Math section, the average SAT score for UCLA typically falls between 640 and 790. This reflects UCLA’s focus on analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Excelling in this section can make your application stand out, particularly if you aim to pursue math-intensive courses or programmes.
Here is a quick overview of average Math & English SAT scores.
| Section | Minimum SAT Score for UCLA |
|---|---|
| English | 640 to 740 |
| Math | 640 to 790 |
UCLA SAT Scores Requirements for Admissions in 2025 – 2026.
UCLA sets a high standard for SAT scores, making it essential to understand what’s expected for the 2025 – 2026 admissions cycle. The UCLA SAT score typically ranges between 1290 and 1510 out of 1600 for successful applicants. This includes the 25th percentile at 1290 and the 75th percentile at 1510, meaning most admitted students score within this upper range.
Meeting these UCLA SAT requirements strengthens your chances of admission. While achieving a competitive score is important, UCLA also considers your overall profile, including academic achievements, extracurriculars, and personal statements.
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What’s a Good SAT Score for UCLA?
Aiming for a competitive UCLA SAT score is key to standing out in the admissions process. While UCLA doesn’t have a strict cutoff, most admitted students score between 1290 and 1510, with a balanced performance in both the Math and English sections. Scoring above 1500 positions you among the top applicants, showcasing your academic readiness.
UCLA SAT Score Analysis
Understanding the SAT score breakdown is essential to grasp what UCLA looks for in its applicants. The UCLA SAT score for most admitted students ranges between 1290 and 1510, reflecting the high academic standards of the university.
Here is a quick overview of the UCLA SAT score analysis.
| Section | Average SAT Score for UCLA | UCLA SAT Requirements Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Composite | 1400 | 25th: 1290 75th: 1510 |
| English | 690 | 25th: 640 75th: 740 |
| Math | 715 | 25th: 640 75th: 790 |
Does UCLA Superscore the SAT?
No, UCLA does not super score the SAT. The university considers the highest total score from a single test date rather than combining section scores from multiple attempts. This means you need to aim for a strong overall UCLA SAT score on a single test to maximise your chances of admission.
When to Submit Your SAT Scores for Admission to UCLA?
Submitting your SAT scores on time is crucial to ensure your application is complete and considered for admission. If you’re applying under Early Action, make sure your scores reach UCLA by August 1, 2024. For Regular Decision applicants, the deadline to submit your SAT scores is December 2, 2024.
Planning your SAT timing is just as important. Ideally, take the SAT at least six weeks before the deadline to account for score processing and submission. A strong UCLA SAT score submitted on time can significantly improve your chances in UCLA’s competitive admissions process.
You can find the SAT deadline in the following table.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| SAT Test Dates Fall 2025 | August 23, 2025 |
| September 13, 2025 | |
| October 4, 2025 | |
| November 8, 2025 | |
| December 6, 2025 |
Also Read: SAT Exam Dates in India in 2025
UCLA’s SAT College Code and Its Importance in Score Submission
UCLA’s SAT college code is 4837. Using this ensures your UCLA SAT score is sent directly to the admissions office without delays. Double-check the code for accuracy to avoid any issues with your application.
How to Send Your SAT Score to UCLA?
Sending your SAT scores to UCLA is simple through the College Board platform. Follow the below-mentioned steps to ensure your scores are submitted correctly.
- Log in to Your College Board Account: Visit the College Board website and sign in to your account.
- Select ‘Send Scores’: Choose the option to send your scores from the dashboard.
- Enter UCLA’s College Code: Use 4837 to direct your scores to UCLA.
- Choose Which Scores to Send: Decide whether to send all scores or select specific test dates.
- Review and Pay: Confirm your details and complete the payment to finalise the submission.
Submitting your UCLA SAT score accurately ensures it reaches the admissions team on time, helping to keep your application process smooth and efficient.
How to Enhance Admission Chances for UCLA if You Score Less in SAT?
UCLA’s acceptance rate is just 9%, reflecting its highly competitive admissions process. Achieving a strong UCLA SAT score can significantly improve your chances of standing out in this selective pool. UCLA reviews applications holistically so you can focus on strengthening other aspects of your profile.
Strategies to Compensate for a Lower SAT Score
If your SAT score is below the average UCLA SAT score, you can still strengthen your application by focusing on other standout elements. UCLA values students who demonstrate creativity, leadership, and academic excellence in ways that go beyond test scores.
1. Highlight Unique Projects
Share academic or personal projects that showcase creativity, problem-solving, or initiative. Examples like a science competition innovation, a coding project, or a community-focused programme can reflect skills and qualities test scores don’t measure.
2. Showcase Leadership Roles
Demonstrate leadership by highlighting roles such as leading clubs, organising school events, or starting impactful initiatives. These experiences show your ability to contribute meaningfully to UCLA’s dynamic community.
3. Excel in Key Subjects
Strong performance in advanced coursework, such as AP or IB classes, particularly in subjects like Maths or Physics, can help offset a lower SAT score. This shows your readiness for UCLA’s academic rigour.
4. Craft a Compelling Essay
Use your essay to share your passion for learning and unique experiences. Discuss specific challenges or accomplishments that align with UCLA’s values and your personal goals.
5. Obtain Strong Recommendations
Request recommendation letters from teachers or mentors who can highlight your intellectual curiosity, resilience, and contributions in class or extracurricular projects.
Also Read: SAT Exam Preparation 2025 for Indian Students
Securing admission to UCLA requires a balanced approach. A strong UCLA SAT score strengthens your application, but other factors like essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations matter, too. Focus on showcasing your strengths and academic readiness to stand out in the highly selective process. Each detail of your application contributes to your overall success.
Aiming for a 1500+ SAT score to secure your place at UCLA? Reserve your free SAT masterclass today!
Read Next: SAT Exam in India for Study Abroad 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What SAT score do I need for UCLA?
Ans. To be competitive, aim for a composite SAT score between 1290 and 1510, with balanced performance in both the Math and English sections. A higher score not only improves your chances of admission but also highlights your academic readiness and ability to excel in UCLA’s rigorous environment.
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Q. Is 1450 a good SAT score for UCLA?
Ans. Yes, a score of 1450 is above average for UCLA and places you in a strong position among applicants. It demonstrates solid academic readiness and makes your application more competitive in the admissions process, particularly when paired with strong essays and extracurriculars.
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Q. Is 1300 a good score for UCLA?
Ans. A score of 1300 is slightly below the average range of admitted students. However, with strong extracurriculars, impactful essays, and glowing recommendations, you could still be considered for admission. Highlighting unique achievements or leadership roles can further strengthen your profile.
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Q. Is UCLA in the Ivy League?
Ans. No, UCLA is not part of the Ivy League. However, it is a highly prestigious university recognised globally for its academic excellence, diverse programmes, and competitive admissions. Its reputation and rankings make it comparable to many Ivy League schools.
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Q. Does UCLA require SAT for international students?
Ans. No, UCLA has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning SAT scores are not mandatory but can be submitted to strengthen your application. Submitting strong scores can still help showcase your academic ability and set you apart from other applicants.
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Q. What is the acceptance rate for UCLA?
Ans. UCLA has an acceptance rate of 9%, making it one of the most selective universities in the world. This highlights the need for a well-rounded application to stand out. Every aspect of your application, from grades to personal statements, matters significantly.
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Q. Does the University of California, Los Angeles require SAT scores?
Ans. UCLA does not require SAT scores for admission. However, submitting them is optional and can be beneficial if your scores are within or above the competitive range. A strong SAT score can add value to your application, especially if your GPA is slightly lower.
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Q. What GPA makes me a competitive applicant for UCLA?
Ans. A GPA of 4.18 or higher makes you competitive for UCLA. Taking advanced courses like AP or IB and achieving high grades in them further improves your profile and chances of acceptance. Consistently excelling in academics shows your preparedness for UCLA’s challenging curriculum.
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Q. Can submitting strong UCLA University SAT scores improve my chances of admission?
Ans. Yes, submitting a strong SAT score can boost your application by highlighting your academic abilities. It is especially helpful if your GPA or extracurriculars need additional support. Strong scores demonstrate your potential to succeed at UCLA and can make your application more compelling.
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Q. What is the average SAT score for admitted students at UCLA?
Ans. The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1290 to 1510. Aiming for the higher end of this range strengthens your application and demonstrates your ability to meet UCLA’s academic expectations. It reflects your readiness for the university’s challenging courses.
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Q. What is a good SAT score for UCLA?
Ans. A good SAT score for UCLA is 1500 or above, as it positions you among the top applicants and reflects strong academic preparedness. Scoring in this range highlights your capability to handle rigorous coursework and sets you apart in the competitive admissions process.
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