Short answer: the middle 50% of first-year students who enrolled at Virginia Tech scored about 1280 to 1450 on the SAT, with an average of 1364. That means a quarter of enrolled first-years scored 1280 or lower and a quarter scored 1450 or higher. These numbers come from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard.
Virginia Tech at a glance
SAT middle 50%: 1280 to 1450 | Average: 1364
Reading and Writing: 640 to 710 | Math: 640 to 740
ACT middle 50%: 28 to 32
Admission rate: 54.8%
Virginia Tech SAT scores by section
| Section | 25th percentile | 75th percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Reading and Writing | 640 | 710 |
| Math | 640 | 740 |
| Total (sum of sections) | 1280 | 1450 |
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 Virginia Tech require the SAT?
No. Virginia Tech is test-optional for first-year students entering through fall 2028, in every major. Virginia Tech says leaving scores out will not affect your admission decision.
- Without scores: Virginia Tech puts more weight on grades, course rigor, its Ut Prosim Profile and activities.
- How to send scores: self-report them in STARS (the Self-reported Transcript and Academic Record System) after you apply. Admitted students who accept send official scores.
- Change deadline: change your test-optional choice before November 1 (Early Action) or January 15 (Regular Decision).
- Common App only: Virginia Tech uses only the Common App for 2026 to 2027.
- SAT code: 5859.
Because Virginia Tech is test-optional, the ranges above only include students who sent scores.
What SAT score should you aim for?
Virginia Tech’s middle 50% is about 1280 to 1450 among students who sent scores. Send your score if it is 1280 or higher. At 1450 or higher, it is in the top quarter. Below about 1280, applying test-optional lets your grades and the Ut Prosim Profile carry more weight.
Math at Virginia Tech runs 640 to 740, a wider range than Reading and Writing (640 to 710). For engineering and science majors, a strong Math score is the part that stands out most.
Where do you stand against Virginia Tech’s range?
Take a free full-length practice test and compare your section scores to 710 (Reading and Writing) and 740 (Math).
How to close the gap
- Find your weaker section by comparing each score to Virginia Tech’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.
For cost, graduation rate and earnings data, see the full Virginia Tech college profile.
Frequently asked questions
What SAT score do you need for Virginia Tech?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1280 to 1450.
What is the average SAT score at Virginia Tech?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1364.
Does Virginia Tech require the SAT?
No. Virginia Tech is test-optional for first-year students entering through fall 2028, in every major.
SAT scores by college
This guide is part of SAT Scores by College: Middle 50% and Testing Policy for 43 Schools.
Related guides:
- Tulane SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1400-1520
- Lehigh SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1370-1500
- William & Mary SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1400-1530
- Johns Hopkins SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1520-1570
- Carnegie Mellon SAT Scores: Middle 50% Is 1500-1570
- 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
- Digital SAT Complete Guide Format, scoring and a full study plan
- Advanced Math and Vocabulary Hub Hard math topics and high-value words
- 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: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (latest admissions data, accessed October 2026).
- Virginia Tech Admissions, Test-Optional at Virginia Tech.
- Virginia Tech Admissions, First-year Admissions Requirements.
- College Board Newsroom, Class of 2026 SAT results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What SAT score do you need for Virginia Tech?
There is no cutoff, but the middle 50% of enrolled first-year students scored about 1280 to 1450.
What is the average SAT score at Virginia Tech?
College Scorecard lists an average of 1364.
Does Virginia Tech require the SAT?
No. Virginia Tech is test-optional for first-year students entering through fall 2028, in every major.