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Salem State University Acceptance Rate, SAT Scores, GPA & ACT Scores!

Last Updated on Mar 10, 2025
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Salem State University was founded in 1854 and is a public university in Salem, Massachusetts. Situated north of the city of Boston, the university has an ideal balance of its rich past and modern academic excellence. With a solid emphasis on student success, Salem State features a broad array of programs to prepare students for leadership in their respective areas.

Knowing the Salem State University SAT scores and GPA requirements gives one greater assurance of getting into this busy scholarly community. An application should be joined with good academic records coupled with sound extracurricular activities and dramatic personal essays. 

Check Out the Upcoming SAT Test Dates for your SAT Examination!

Did You Know Facts About Salem State University? 

  • Historic Location – Salem State University is located in Salem, Massachusetts, a city famous for its rich history, including the Salem Witch Trials of 1692.
  • Founded in 1854 – Originally established as the Salem Normal School, the university was created to train teachers and later expanded to offer a wide range of academic programs.
  • Largest State University in Massachusetts – Salem State is one of the largest public universities in the state, serving over 7,500 students.
  • Coastal Campus – The university is situated near the Atlantic Ocean, giving students scenic views and access to coastal research opportunities.
  • Diverse Student Body – Salem State is known for its diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.

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Elements

Details

College Name

Salem State University

College Location

Salem, Massachusetts

College Short Form

Salem State

Salem State University Acceptance Rate

93%

Graduation Rate

55%

FAFSA Deadline

February 15

Early Decision

Not Offered

Regular Application Due

Fall Semester: June 1

Spring Semester: December 1

SAT Score

1038-1173

ACT Score

Test-Optional

Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT! 

Salem State University Admissions Requirements

Salem State University seeks students who are not only academically qualified but also motivated and well-rounded. GPA and SAT scores are important, but the university puts a great deal of weight on passion, extracurricular activities, and character. Applicants must submit an application and answer personal insight questions that bring out their individual experiences. Salem State is test-optional but the reporting of SAT scores may strengthen an application. With a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 and above, the university seeks applicants who not only possess what it takes to thrive academically but who are also capable of making a positive impact in their communities.

Requirement

Details

High School GPA

3.0-3.24

SAT Scores

1038-1173

ACT Scores

Test-Optional

Application Fee

$50

Letters of Recommendation

1-2 letters from teachers or mentors recommended.

Personal Statement

A well-crafted personal essay showcasing strengths and aspirations.

Extracurricular Activities

Leadership roles, community service, and unique achievements enhance your application.

AP/IB Courses

Taking rigorous coursework such as AP or IB is encouraged.

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Salem State University SAT Scores Requirements

If you're applying to Salem State University, you might be wondering about the SAT. While the university is test-optional, submitting your scores can still be a great way to strengthen your application. Most admitted students tend to have SAT scores between 1100 and 1300, so if your score falls within or above that range, it could give you an extra edge. This points to the significance of working hard to achieve a good SAT score to be competitive among applicants. SAT preparation includes practice tests, study guides, and test-taking skills.

Salem State University SAT Scores Distribution

On average, the SAT scores of admitted students at Salem State University range from 1038 to 1173, which indicates a competitive admissions process. The 25th percentile SAT score is approximately 1038, while the 75th percentile SAT score is around 1173. 

SAT Component

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Evidence Based Reading & Writing

520

610

Math

500

570

Composite 

1038

1173

Average SAT Scores at Salem State University

The SAT exam is a standardized test commonly used for college admissions in the United States. Although Salem State University has become test-optional, many applicants choose to submit their SAT scores as a means to strengthen their applications. The average SAT score for Salem State University is 1105. 

Salem State University Colleges Considering SAT Scores

While the university is test-optional, certain programs may still consider Salem State University SAT scores as part of their admissions criteria. The colleges and schools that consider SAT scores include:

  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • College of Business
  • School of Education
  • College of Health and Human Services

Find out the Upcoming ACT Test Dates and Deadlines! 

Salem State University ACT Scores Requirements 

If you're opting for the ACT instead of the SAT, you have a significant advantage when it comes to sending your scores, which can greatly impact your testing strategy.

Here’s why: with the ACT, you have full control over which test scores you send to colleges. You could take multiple tests and choose to submit only your best score. This is different from the SAT, where some schools require applicants to send all their test attempts. 

Because of this flexibility, you have multiple opportunities to boost your ACT score. To meet or exceed Salem State University’s ACT benchmark of 18 or higher, it’s a good idea to take the test as many times as needed. Once you achieve a score you’re satisfied with, you can send only that result to your chosen colleges.

Also, Get to Know What Colleges Take Superscore ACT?

Salem State University ACT Scores Distribution 

Those above the 75th percentile are more likely to be accepted, and those below the 25th percentile need to emphasize other areas of their application, including GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. 

Also, Get to Know What is a Good ACT Score

Salem State University GPA Requirements

Salem State University puts great value on GPA as an indicator of academic achievement. The admitted students' average GPA tends to be 3.0-3.24, which is an indication of the high academic expectations of the university. There is no minimum GPA requirement, but competitive applicants tend to have GPAs in this range, along with rigorous coursework in AP or IB classes.

Average GPA of Admitted Students at Salem State University

The middle 50% of students admitted to Salem State University have average GPAs that typically range from 3.0 to 3.24. Applicants who take advanced classes like AP or IB are favored in the admissions process, as this demonstrates their readiness for academic rigor.

Get to Know the Recent Changes done in the SAT Exam!

Salem State University Acceptance Rate

Salem State University has a selective open admissions policy, with a 93% acceptance rate. What this means is that the university welcomes a diverse array of students but still requires applicants to meet some academic standards. A high GPA, extracurricular activities, and balanced application are elements that can enhance your prospects for admission. While the university is test-optional, submitting competitive SAT or ACT scores can further enhance your prospects.

Particulars

Details 

Total Applicants 

5,093

Admitted Students 

4,719

Acceptance Rate

93%

Salem State University Scholarships 

Salem State University provides a range of scholarships and financial aid programs to assist students in reaching their academic aspirations. Merit-based scholarships recognize students with high academic performance, while need-based scholarships support those in need of financial assistance. Transfer students, first-generation students, and students performing well in certain areas of study are also offered scholarships. In order to receive maximum scholarship benefits, students must apply early and fulfill all eligibility criteria established by the university.

While Salem State University GPA and SAT scores are critical parts of the consideration process, the holistic review process takes many aspects into account. The most successful applicants weigh academic merit against exceptional leadership, extracurricular activity, and inspiring personal statements. With good preparation and a balanced application, you can place yourself among Salem State University's diverse academic population.

Acceptance Rate of Top U.S. Universities

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Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

Category

Colleges/Universities

Ivy League Schools

Harvard University

Yale University

Princeton University

Columbia University

University of Pennsylvania

Dartmouth College

Brown University

Cornell University

Public Research Universities

University of California System (some campuses)

University of Michigan

University of Virginia

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of Florida

National Universities

University of Chicago

Northwestern University

Johns Hopkins University

University of Southern California

Liberal Arts Colleges

Williams College

Amherst College

Swarthmore College

Middlebury College

Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score

College Name

ACT Score

SAT Score

Texas Southern University

15–19*

820–980*

Tennessee State University

16–21*

890–1080*

Clark Atlanta University

17–20*

860–1053*

Keiser University

15–21*

Not available*

Barry University

16–20*

860–1062*

Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT

University

ACT Score

SAT Score

Wayne State University Admissions

21–27*

940–1200*

Kean University Admissions

16–25*

910–1150*

Eastern Michigan University Admissions

18–26*

910–1150*

Lamar University Admissions

18–24*

910–1120*

Radford University Admissions

19–26*

950–1150*

Grand Valley State University Admissions

21–28*

950–1180*

Central Connecticut State University Admissions

16–27*

925–1140*

University Of Memphis Admissions

17–24*

930–1175*

Sam Houston State University Admissions

19–25*

950–1130*

Oakland University Admissions

20–27*

900–1150*

University Of North Florida Admissions

20–26*

1010–1200*

Salem State University Admissions FAQs

Salem State University was established in 1854 as Salem Normal School for the purpose of preparing teachers. It was later developed into a public university with varied academic programs.

The university is situated in Salem, Massachusetts, a city famous for its history surrounding the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. It is also situated just to the north of Boston, making urban opportunities available to students.

Salem State University's acceptance rate is around 93%, so it is an open institution while still having high academic standards.

Salem State University is test-optional, so students have the option of not sending their SAT or ACT scores. But sending good scores will make an application stronger.

Admitted students generally have an SAT score range of 1038-1173 and a GPA of 3.0-3.24. There is no strict requirement, but strong applicants usually are within this range.

Salem State offers merit-based, need-based, and specialized scholarships for transfer students, first-generation students, and students who excel in certain fields. Early application is highly advised to optimize financial aid options.

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