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What SAT Score Do You Need for Haverford College?

Updated for the 2026–2027 admissions cycle

1470–1540
SAT Middle 50%
33–35
ACT Middle 50%
12%
Acceptance Rate
Test-Optional
Test Policy

Private · Haverford, PA · Data verified 2026-03-19

About Haverford College

Haverford College is a highly selective private liberal arts college on Philadelphia's Main Line. Haverford is known for its Honor Code, close faculty-student relationships, small class sizes, and a consortium with Bryn Mawr, Swarthmore, and the University of Pennsylvania that expands academic opportunities.

SAT and ACT Score Ranges

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Haverford students is 1470–1540. This means the 25th percentile of admitted students scored 1470 and the 75th percentile scored 1540. For the ACT, the middle 50% range is 33–35.

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

Haverford is test-optional. Students may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

Even at test-optional schools, strong scores can help. If your SAT score falls within or above Haverford's middle 50% range (1470–1540), submitting it can reinforce your academic profile. If your score is well below the 25th percentile (1470), 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

Competitive applicants have near-perfect GPAs in rigorous coursework, outstanding essays, strong recommendations, and meaningful extracurricular engagement. If submitting scores, an SAT above 1470 is typical. Haverford values intellectual curiosity, personal integrity, and commitment to community.

How Test Scores Factor Into Haverford Admissions

Haverford's admissions process is highly selective and deeply holistic. Test scores are one factor among many — the strength of the transcript, essays, and recommendations carry significant weight. Students who submit SAT scores typically have results in the 1470+ range.

How to Prepare

If you're targeting Haverford, 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 Haverford, aim for at least 1470 SAT or 33 ACT to be in the competitive range. A score of 1540+ 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 Haverford's middle 50% range, submit it. If not, you may benefit from Haverford'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 Haverford. 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 Haverford?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Haverford students is 1470–1540. This means 25% of admitted students scored below 1470 and 25% scored above 1540. Scoring within or above this range puts you in a competitive position, but Haverford uses a holistic admissions process that considers many factors beyond test scores.
Does Haverford require SAT or ACT scores?
Haverford is test-optional. Students may choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is Haverford's acceptance rate?
Haverford College's current acceptance rate is 12%. 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 Haverford?
Haverford 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 1470–1540 SAT or 33–35 ACT to be competitive at Haverford.

Data sources: Haverford College 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.