Central College campus

SAT Requirements and Admissions for Central College | Central College Admissions

Navigating one of America's most selective institutions with expert insights, preparation strategies, and admission tips for Central College.

SAT Requirements and Admissions for Central College | Central College Admissions 2025

Discover SAT requirements, score breakdown, and admission strategies for Central College. Learn how to prepare for the SAT and improve your chances of admission.

SAT Requirements

To apply to Central College, you must submit either the SAT or ACT scores. The SAT is required for most applicants, but the college is test-optional for students who meet certain criteria, such as exceptional academic performance or significant extracurricular involvement. Check the application requirements section for details on how test scores impact your admission chances and scholarship opportunities.

Score Requirements

Official Minimum: 940

Competitive Score: 1050

Average Score: 1040

Test Policy

Central College is test-optional for students who meet academic and extracurricular benchmarks, such as a high GPA, significant involvement in clubs, or leadership roles. However, submitting SAT or ACT scores can enhance your admission prospects and make you eligible for competitive scholarships. For example, students who score in the top 20% on the SAT are more likely to receive merit-based aid.

  • Test-optional for qualified applicants
  • SAT or ACT required for merit-based scholarships
  • Scores considered for admission decisions

SAT Score Breakdown

Test Optional Policy

This institution is test-optional. While SAT scores are not required for admission, a combined score around the score requirements is considered competitive for this school.

Math

Target Score:Not Required

Reading & Writing

Target Score:Not Required

* These scores represent recommended targets. Actual admission decisions consider multiple factors beyond test scores.

Comparative Analysis

Central College's average SAT scores are slightly below the national average, indicating a competitive but achievable goal. However, many admitted students score above the minimum requirements, showing that Central values a balanced and strong overall profile.

MetricValuePeer AverageDifference
Average SAT Score10401050-10
Admission Rate79%-6%

Admission Predictor

1200
4001600

Estimated Chance of Admission to

Central College

99%

How We Calculate Your Chances

Our prediction model considers multiple factors to estimate your admission chances:

  • Your SAT score relative to Central College's middle 50% range
  • Historical acceptance rate data from Central College
  • Statistical distribution of admitted students' scores
  • Holistic admission factors and institutional priorities

Note: This is an estimate based on available data. Actual admission decisions consider many additional factors including GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and other qualifications not reflected in this prediction.

SAT Preparation Tips

Preparation Timeline

Foundational Skills (2 years)

Activities:
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Tips:
  • Use textbooks and online resources
  • Join study groups and forums

Targeted Practice (1 year)

Activities:
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Tips:
  • Focus on weak areas identified by practice tests
  • Experiment with different strategies

Final Review (3 months)

Activities:
  • [object Object]
  • [object Object]
Tips:
  • Analyze mistakes and improve time management
  • Stay calm and focused during the test

Study Resources

Textbooks

  • The Official SAT Study Guide
    Thorough coverage of all sections
  • Crash Course for SAT
    Focus on high-frequency topics

Online Tools

  • ChatSAT
    AI-powered SAT prep platform
  • Khan Academy SAT Prep
    Interactive learning experiences

Strategies

  • Process of Elimination
    Save time on harder questions
  • Reading Efficiently
    Skim and strategically analyze passages

Test-Taking Strategies

Test-Taking Strategies

Practice test questions under timed conditions to build endurance and speed.

Mark what you can confidently answer and move on.,Review and analyze mistakes after the test.

  • Use the process of elimination to save time
  • Prioritize easier questions first
  • Stay calm and focused during the test

Visualize Your Path to Central College

Set your goals and get a personalized study plan

ANGLE
1000
/1600
Current SAT Score
ANGLE
1000
/1600
Target Score (1000-1260 recommended)

Study Timeline

0
Points to Gain
0
Points per Week
12
Weeks to Prepare

Weekly Study Plan

Practice Tests
2-3 full tests per week
Study Sessions
4 focused sessions
Review Time
1 comprehensive review

Alumni Insights

Central College alumni are well-prepared for the workforce, with many pursuing careers in business, education, and healthcare. The college's focus on holistic development ensures graduates are competitive in their chosen fields. Many alumni attribute their success to the strong foundation provided by Central's liberal arts curriculum and the relationships built during their time on campus.

Top Employers

  • Central College214 alumni
  • Wells Fargo141 alumni
  • Principal Financial Group105 alumni
  • Pella Corporation96 alumni
  • Vermeer Corporation93 alumni
  • Nationwide45 alumni
  • John Deere37 alumni
  • Hy-Vee, Inc.31 alumni
  • Iowa State University31 alumni
  • University of Iowa29 alumni
  • UnityPoint Health28 alumni
  • Des Moines Public Schools27 alumni
  • Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield23 alumni
  • Drake University18 alumni
  • Farm Bureau Financial Services16 alumni

Where Alumni Live

  • Iowa, United States4,999 alumni
  • Des Moines Metropolitan Area2,510 alumni
  • Pella, IA998 alumni
  • Des Moines, IA633 alumni
  • Iowa City-Cedar Rapids Area518 alumni
  • Illinois, United States474 alumni
  • Quad Cities Metropolitan Area406 alumni
  • West Des Moines, IA361 alumni
  • Minnesota, United States359 alumni
  • Greater Chicago Area344 alumni
  • Colorado, United States298 alumni
  • Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area291 alumni
  • Texas, United States271 alumni
  • California, United States270 alumni

Popular Career Fields

Business Development1,260 alumni
Education1,141 alumni
Operations1,122 alumni
Sales812 alumni
Community and Social Services725 alumni
Finance634 alumni
Healthcare Services570 alumni
Information Technology533 alumni
Customer Success and Support406 alumni
Engineering393 alumni
Human Resources362 alumni
Administrative354 alumni
Media and Communication349 alumni
Marketing325 alumni
Arts and Design303 alumni

Top Skills

Leadership2,672 alumni
Customer Service2,568 alumni
Microsoft Office2,257 alumni
Public Speaking1,885 alumni
Microsoft Excel1,851 alumni
Management1,821 alumni
Communication1,602 alumni
Project Management1,400 alumni
Microsoft Word1,366 alumni
Strategic Planning1,331 alumni
Sales1,294 alumni
Research Skills1,287 alumni
Microsoft PowerPoint1,281 alumni
Social Media1,242 alumni
Team Building1,175 alumni

Popular Fields of Study

Business Administration and Management, General1,105 alumni
Psychology581 alumni
Kinesiology and Exercise Science453 alumni
Biology, General444 alumni
Spanish and Iberian Studies438 alumni
Accounting and Related Services393 alumni
Political Science and Government362 alumni
Sociology347 alumni
Business/Commerce, General325 alumni
Elementary Education and Teaching322 alumni
Accounting320 alumni
Communication, General319 alumni
English Language and Literature/Letters287 alumni
Computer Science272 alumni
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services268 alumni

FAQ

What is Central College's SAT requirements?

Central requires a minimum SAT score of 940 (EBRW) and 450 (Math). However, competitive scores typically range between 1050-1200.

Is Central College test-optional?

Yes, Central is test-optional for students who meet certain criteria, such as a high GPA or significant extracurricular involvement. Check the application requirements for details.

What is the average SAT score for admitted students?

The average SAT score is 1040, with most students scoring between 940-1200.

How do SAT scores impact admission?

High SAT scores, especially in math and reading, improve your chances of admission and eligibility for merit scholarships. For example, students scoring in the top 20% on the SAT are more likely to receive competitive aid.

Explore Other Universities

Similar Universities

Get SAT Prep Tips in Your Inbox

Join thousands of students getting weekly test prep tips and college admissions advice.