SAT Score Cutoffs for Ashoka, Krea, Flame, Plaksha, NMIMS, etc.
- Ashoka: 1450–1500+ recommended
- Krea: 1300–1400
- FLAME: 1200–1300 (scholarships typically 1350+)
- Shiv Nadar (SNU): 1300+
- Plaksha: 1350+
- NMIMS: 1250–1350
- Thapar: 1200+
Over the past few years, a growing number of Indian families have discovered that the SAT can be used for admission to India’s most respected new-age universities. Instead of preparing for multiple college-specific entrance tests, students can focus on one exam and apply widely. This is a key reason parents now ask very directly: “If my child scores 1500+, is Ashoka a certainty?”
I run SAT Prep Gurgaon, an online/offline tutoring program that has guided dozens of students into these universities with strong SAT scores. Based on extensive research, student outcomes, and on-the-ground experience, here is an authoritative guide to the SAT scores that matter for admissions.
Why the SAT Matters in India
- One test, many doors: Ashoka, Krea, Flame, Shiv Nadar, Plaksha, NMIMS and Thapar all accept SAT scores for undergraduate admissions.
- Saves time and stress: In many cases, SAT scores allow students to skip additional entrance exams conducted by each university.
- Scholarships: Higher SAT scores often open up partial merit scholarships, significantly reducing tuition fees.
Target SAT Scores for India’s Leading New-Age Universities
| University | Typical SAT Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ashoka University | 1350–1550 | Most successful applicants score above 1400. A 1500+ score is widely seen as a near-certainty for admission and can lead to a firm offer. |
| Krea University | 1250–1400 | Applicants with 1300+ are competitive; 1400+ strengthens admission chances and scholarship consideration. |
| FLAME University | 1100–1300 | Admits in the 1100–1200 range are common; scholarships usually awarded at 1350+. |
| Shiv Nadar University | 1300+ | A score of 1300 is a recognized benchmark for both admission and scholarship eligibility. |
| Plaksha University | 1350+ | Competitive programs and small class sizes mean scores of 1350 or higher are recommended. |
| NMIMS | 1150–1350 | Accepted for international and certain UG tracks. 1250+ is advisable for stronger programs. |
| Thapar University | 1200+ | Used primarily for NRI/foreign categories; 1200+ is the practical minimum. |
University Highlights
Ashoka University
India’s flagship liberal arts university. Applicants with SAT scores of 1450 and higher have the strongest admission chances. A 1500+ score is widely considered sufficient for a confirmed offer. A 30+ on Ashoka Aptitude Assessment often leads to shortlists.
Krea University
Krea emphasizes interdisciplinary learning. A 1300+ SAT score makes a student competitive; 1400+ ensures stronger standing for both admission and scholarships.
FLAME University
Known for its liberal arts and sciences model. Students with 1100–1200 have been admitted, but merit aid is typically reserved for those with 1350 or above.
Shiv Nadar University
Interdisciplinary research-led institution. 1300+ SAT is a benchmark for both admission and scholarship eligibility, making it a realistic target for applicants.
Plaksha University
A tech-focused university backed by entrepreneurs. Given its selective intake, students are encouraged to present a 1350+ SAT to stay competitive.
NMIMS
A business-focused university with multiple campuses. SAT accepted for specific UG tracks. A 1250+ SAT score improves admission prospects considerably.
Thapar University
Engineering-heavy institution. SAT is primarily used for NRI and foreign students, with 1200+ as the competitive minimum score.
What Score Should You Aim For?
- 1500+: Practically assures admission to Ashoka; top of the pack everywhere else.
- 1400–1490: Strong for Ashoka, Krea, Shiv Nadar, Plaksha.
- 1300–1390: Competitive for Krea, Shiv Nadar, NMIMS, Thapar; Ashoka less certain.
- 1200–1290: Viable for FLAME and NMIMS; scholarship chances low.
Conclusion
For ambitious students in India, the SAT is more than a test—it’s a passport to admissions at the country’s leading new-age universities. If Ashoka is the dream, 1450–1500+ should be your goal. For other institutions, 1300+ opens most doors. In every case, a higher score means stronger admissions chances and better scholarships.
