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What SAT Score Do You Need for Bryn Mawr College?

Updated for the 2026–2027 admissions cycle

1280–1510
SAT Middle 50%
29–33
ACT Middle 50%
29%
Acceptance Rate
Test-Optional
Test Policy

Private · Bryn Mawr, PA · Data verified 2026-03-19

About Bryn Mawr College

Bryn Mawr College is a private women's liberal arts college on Philadelphia's Main Line. Bryn Mawr is known for its rigorous academics, graduate programs, a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, and its consortium with Haverford, Swarthmore, and the University of Pennsylvania.

SAT and ACT Score Ranges

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Bryn Mawr students is 1280–1510. This means the 25th percentile of admitted students scored 1280 and the 75th percentile scored 1510. For the ACT, the middle 50% range is 29–33.

These numbers represent the middle 50% of admitted students — 25% scored below the lower number and 25% scored above the higher number. Scoring within or above this range strengthens your application, but it doesn't guarantee admission, just as scoring slightly below doesn't rule you out.

Test Policy: Test-Optional

Bryn Mawr is test-optional. About 50% of recently enrolled students submitted SAT scores and 21% submitted ACT scores.

Even at test-optional schools, strong scores can help. If your SAT score falls within or above Bryn Mawr's middle 50% range (1280–1510), submitting it can reinforce your academic profile. If your score is well below the 25th percentile (1280), you may be better served by applying without scores and letting your transcript and other application components speak for themselves.

What Makes a Competitive Applicant

A competitive applicant has a 3.8+ GPA in a rigorous curriculum, thoughtful essays, strong recommendations, and evidence of intellectual curiosity and leadership. If submitting, an SAT above 1350 puts you in a strong position.

How Test Scores Factor Into Bryn Mawr Admissions

As a test-optional school, Bryn Mawr places primary emphasis on the transcript, course rigor, essays, and recommendations. About half of enrolled students submitted test scores. Students who submit and score in the 1400+ range are well-positioned, but strong applicants without scores are admitted regularly.

How to Prepare

If you're targeting Bryn Mawr, here's a practical approach to test prep:

  1. Take a diagnostic test. Start with a full-length, timed practice SAT and ACT to establish your baseline and determine which test suits your strengths. Many tutors in the Greater Philadelphia area offer free diagnostics.
  2. Set a target score. For Bryn Mawr, aim for at least 1280 SAT or 29 ACT to be in the competitive range. A score of 1510+ puts you in the upper half of admitted students.
  3. Build a study plan. Most students need 8–16 weeks of focused preparation to see meaningful improvement. Work with a qualified tutor who can identify your specific score gaps and build a targeted plan.
  4. Take full-length practice tests. Simulate real test conditions at least 2–3 times during your prep. This builds stamina and helps you practice pacing.
  5. Consider taking the real test twice. Most students improve on their second sitting. If your score falls within Bryn Mawr's middle 50% range, submit it. If not, you may benefit from Bryn Mawr's test-optional policy.

Find a Tutor

The Greater Philadelphia area has a deep bench of experienced SAT and ACT tutors who can help you reach your target score for Bryn Mawr. Whether you prefer in-person sessions on the Main Line, in Bucks County, or in South Jersey — or flexible online tutoring from anywhere — our directory can help you find the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What SAT score do I need for Bryn Mawr?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Bryn Mawr students is 1280–1510. This means 25% of admitted students scored below 1280 and 25% scored above 1510. Scoring within or above this range puts you in a competitive position, but Bryn Mawr uses a holistic admissions process that considers many factors beyond test scores.
Does Bryn Mawr require SAT or ACT scores?
Bryn Mawr is test-optional. About 50% of recently enrolled students submitted SAT scores and 21% submitted ACT scores.
What is Bryn Mawr's acceptance rate?
Bryn Mawr College's current acceptance rate is 29%. Keep in mind that acceptance rates can vary year to year and may differ for early decision/action versus regular decision applicants.
Should I take the SAT or ACT for Bryn Mawr?
Bryn Mawr College accepts both the SAT and ACT equally. The best approach is to take a full-length practice test of each and see which format better suits your strengths. Many tutors in the Greater Philadelphia area offer free diagnostic assessments to help you decide. Your target scores should be 1280–1510 SAT or 29–33 ACT to be competitive at Bryn Mawr.

Helpful Resources

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Data sources: Bryn Mawr admissions; College Board BigFuture; Niche. Score ranges represent the middle 50% (25th–75th percentile) of admitted students. Acceptance rates and test policies reflect the most recent available admissions cycle. Data last verified 2026-03-19. Admissions data changes annually — always confirm current figures on the school's official admissions website.