Short answer: the middle 50% of first-year students who enrolled at Colgate University scored about 1430 to 1540 on the SAT, with an average of 1508. That means a quarter of enrolled first-years scored 1430 or lower and a quarter scored 1540 or higher. These numbers come from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
Colgate at a glance
SAT middle 50%: 1430 to 1540 | Average: 1508
Reading and Writing: 710 to 760 | Math: 720 to 780
ACT middle 50%: 33 to 34
Admission rate: 13.9%
Colgate SAT scores by section
| Section | 25th percentile | 75th percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | 710 | 760 |
| Math | 720 | 780 |
| Total (sum of sections) | 1430 | 1540 |
The total row adds the two section numbers, so treat it as a close estimate, not an exact percentile of total scores. For comparison, the average SAT score for the class of 2026 was 1045 (528 Reading and Writing, 517 Math), according to College Board.
Does Colgate require the SAT?
No, for now. Colgate’s official policy makes SAT and ACT scores optional for all applicants through the 2026 to 2027 cycle (students entering through fall 2027). Colgate calls it a pilot and says it will review the results before deciding on later classes. Applicants without scores are at no disadvantage.
- Tell Colgate: say in the Colgate-specific questions whether you want your scores considered.
- Superscoring: Colgate superscores the SAT and ACT.
- Self-report: allowed. Scores must be verified before you enroll.
- Test timing: by early November for Early Decision I and by early December for Early Decision II.
- SAT code: 2086.
What SAT score should you aim for?
Colgate’s middle 50% is about 1430 to 1540 among students who sent scores. Send your score if it is 1430 or higher. At 1540 or higher, it is in the top quarter.
If you are in the class of 2028 or younger, check Colgate’s policy again before you apply, since the pilot only runs through students entering in fall 2027. Having a score in hand keeps your options open either way.
Where do you stand against Colgate’s range?
Take a free full-length practice test and compare your section scores to 760 (Reading and Writing) and 780 (Math).
How to close the gap
- Find your weaker section by comparing each score to Colgate’s 75th percentile above.
- Practice at the top difficulty level. Scores in this range come from getting the hardest questions right. Try these hard SAT math questions and this hard SAT English practice test.
- Drill your weak skills in Targeted Practice.
- Compare schools with similar ranges in the College Finder.
Frequently asked questions
What SAT score do you need for Colgate?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1430 to 1540.
What is the average SAT score at Colgate?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1508.
Does Colgate require the SAT?
No. Colgate is test-optional for students entering through fall 2027 as part of a pilot, and superscores.
SAT scores by college
This guide is part of SAT Scores by College: Middle 50% and Testing Policy for 43 Schools.
Related guides:
- Elon SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1130-1280
- Barnard SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1470-1560
- Middlebury SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1445-1550
- Babson SAT Scores: Admitted Middle 50% Is 1450-1530
- USF SAT Scores: Fall 2026 Admitted Middle 50% Is 1290-1420
- What Do SAT Scores Mean? How to Read Your Score Report
- Lowest Possible SAT Score: 400, and What a Low Score Means
Explore every SAT hub
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- SAT Grammar Guide Every grammar and punctuation rule
- SAT Reading Guide Reading question types and strategies
- SAT Practice Tests Guide Official tests and how to use them
- Desmos Guide Calculator shortcuts for SAT Math
- SAT Scores by College Ranges and testing policies for 43 schools
- PSAT Guide PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, PSAT 8/9 and National Merit
- Test Strategy Hub Timing, pacing and prep resources
- SAT Predictions Questions most likely to repeat
Sources
- U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard: Colgate University (latest admissions data, accessed October 2026).
- Colgate Admission, Apply to Colgate.
- Colgate News, Colgate to Remain Test Optional Through 2026.
- College Board Newsroom, Class of 2026 SAT results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What SAT score do you need for Colgate?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1430 to 1540.
What is the average SAT score at Colgate?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1508.
Does Colgate require the SAT?
No. Colgate is test-optional for students entering through fall 2027 as part of a pilot, and superscores.