What is a perfect SAT score?
A perfect SAT score is 1600. Even after the recent changes in the SAT, it is still scored on a scale of 400 to 1600. The scores on the digital SAT are comparable to the paper-and-pencil version of the test. The average SAT score is 1050.
What is a perfect ACT score?
The ACT is scored differently than the SAT, and therefore, has a different score scale. The maximum ACT score is 36. In the enhanced ACT, Science is no longer a part of the composite score, and is now scored separately. In 2024, the average ACT score was 19.4 (while the average score for students admitted to Harvard University was 34).
Is achieving a perfect score in the SAT/ACT possible?
Achieving a perfect score in a standardized test might seem like a distant dream, but it’s doable! With the right preparation, you can significantly improve your scores. Still, less than 1% of students nationwide achieve a perfect score.
Why does achieving a perfect score matter?
First, achieving a high or perfect score in the SAT/ACT increases your chances of being accepted into the university of your dreams. But more than that, some schools will even offer merit scholarships for students who have done so.
What schools offer full scholarships for students with a perfect SAT/ACT score?
Ohio State University
The President’s Ohio Scholarship Program covers the full cost of attendance to The Ohio State University, renewable for up to 8 full-time semesters, plus up to $5,000 enrichment grant funding. Superscoring is not allowed — students need to achieve a perfect score on a single test date. Available for Ohio residents only.
University of Nebraska
The Presidential Scholars Program is available for students who achieved a perfect ACT score, or an SAT score above 1570. For students taking the ACT, the Science test is mandatory. As with the Ohio State University, superscores will not be considered. The scholarship covers undergraduate tuition, fees, books and supplies, housing and food, personal expenses and transportation, and all other costs of attendance, plus a $5,000 annual stipend. Available for Nebraska residents only.
University of Alabama
The University of Alabama offers several merit-based scholarships depending on your ACT or SAT scores, and your GPA, starting with scores of 24 for the ACT and 1160 for the SAT. With an ACT score of 30 or an SAT score of 1360 (and a GPA of 3.5), students are already eligible for the Presidential scholarship covering the full tuition. However, with a perfect SAT or ACT score, and a 4.0+ GPA, students are eligible for the Presidential Elite scholarship, which covers the full value of tuition for up to four years, the first year of on-campus housing, $1,500 per year supplemental scholarship for four years, plus a $2,000 one-time allowance for use in research or international study. The Presidential Elite scholarship is also available for out-of-state students.
University of Missouri
The Perfect Score scholarship is available to Missouri residents who achieved a perfect score in the ACT or SAT. Unlike the scholarships mentioned above, superscores are accepted. The award covers full tuition and fees, an additional annual stipend of $3,500, one year of on-campus housing and dining, valued at $13,700, research/study abroad support amount of $2,000 and a one-time enrichment award of $1,000.
University of Utah
The Presidential Scholarship at the University of Utah offers 100% tuition & student fees coverage for up to 4 years. The score requirements vary depending on a student’s GPA. For example, a student with a 3.75 GPA would need a perfect score in the ACT or a 1570 score in the SAT, while a student with a 4.0 GPA would need lower scores (1450 on the SAT or 33 on the ACT). The scholarship is available for students in and out of state.
How can I achieve a perfect SAT/ACT score?
Reaching the top of the score scale takes more than standard test prep. It requires targeted practice, advanced strategies, and guidance from someone who truly understands what it takes. If you want tips to get started, check out our secret SAT strategies from someone who has achieved a 1600 on the exam.
Our expert test prep tutors include graduates of top universities and experienced specialists who have guided many students to improve their SAT and ACT scores. They know the exams inside and out and can help students build the skills and confidence they need to reach their goals.
Why starting early makes a difference
Perfect or near-perfect scores rarely come from last-minute study. Students who start preparing earlier have more time to learn the structure of the exam, strengthen weaker areas, and gradually raise their scores. A longer runway also allows for lower-stress practice and well-timed official tests. For families aiming for top-tier scores or competitive scholarships, early preparation can make the path clearer and far more achievable.
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