ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS
ACT and SAT test scores are optional
Q: Am I required to submit an ACT or SAT test score?
A: The University of Akron has made submitting test scores optional as part of its holistic review of applications for admission.
- Applicants who have taken the ACT or SAT and feel their scores reflect their abilities should submit them for admission and merit scholarship consideration.
- Applicants who do not have scores, who had limited opportunities to retake the ACT or SAT more than once, or who feel that their scores do not reflect their ability to be successful at UA should select that they wish to be considered for admission and merit scholarship consideration without test scores when completing the admission application (using the Common App or the Akron App to apply).
- Applicants will receive full consideration in the admissions process and in review for merit scholarships, and the Williams Honors College even if they choose not to submit an ACT or SAT score.
Q: How do I let UA know that I do not plan to submit a test score?
A: First-year applicants will be asked a question on the Common Application and the UA application. Students will respond ‘Yes’ or ‘No’. The question is as follows:
Example question: The University of Akron has made submitting test scores optional as part of its holistic review of applications. Would you like to be reviewed for admission and scholarship consideration without test scores?
Yes No
Transfer applicants with less than 12 semester hours earned at the time of their application will be able to indicate on the UA application if they plan to submit SAT or ACT scores (including test scores is recommended).
Q: When do I need to decide if I am submitting a test score?
A: Please note your decision when submitting your application to UA. After you submit your application, if you decide that you would like your test score to be included in your admission or merit scholarship consideration, you must submit your test score to UA by May 1.
Q: How will my application be evaluated without a test score?
A: Applicants to UA are considered for admission on a selective basis. Our holistic review process looks for evidence that an applicant is prepared to be academically successful at UA. Admission decisions are based on the review of:
- the high school transcript including coursework,
- cumulative GPA,
- grade trends, and
- strength of high school curriculum.
Q: If I apply to UA test-optional, am I required to take a placement test before I register for classes?
A: In the absence of ACT/SAT scores, university placement testing will be required to place students into appropriate first-year courses.
Q: How can I prepare for my placement test(s)?
A: You should review the preparation materials we have provided (scroll down to How To Prepare), so that you get an idea of what our expectations are.
Q: If I apply without test scores, can I still be considered for merit-based scholarships?
A: Yes. Students who apply without a test score will be considered for merit-based scholarships.
The Williams Honors College is looking for students that are highly motivated, intellectually curious, and want to be part of a larger community that encourages the best in its members. As a result, the admission process for the Williams Honors College is holistic. We look for academic achievement, but we realize and appreciate that there are many ways to represent this. Especially now, with the disruptions in everyday life, we are encouraging students to show to us why the Williams Honors College is a good fit for them, and likewise we for them. Explore the benefits of the Williams Honors College.
Q: Do I need to submit a test score to be considered for admission to the Williams Honors College?
A: No. You will receive full consideration for admission even if you are unable or choose not to submit a test score.
Q: Do I need to submit a test score to be considered for scholarships offered by the Williams Honors College?
A: No. You will receive full scholarship consideration even if you are unable or choose not to submit a test score.
Q. I am a recruited student-athlete. Do I need to submit a test score for admission consideration?
A. As a recruited student-athlete, submitting a test score as part of your application for admission is optional. However, you are required to follow all initial eligibility requirements established by the NCAA Eligibility Center.
Q. I attend or graduated from a non-chartered high school. Do I need to submit a test score?
A. Yes. Applicants who attend a non-chartered high school are required to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their application. Transfer applicants whose high school is non-charted and who have earned fewer than 12 semester hours after high school graduation are required to submit a test score.
Q. I am a transfer applicant. Do I need to submit a test score?
A. Submission of test scores is encouraged but optional for transfer applicants with fewer than 12 hours after high school graduation at the point of application (with the exceptions noted above). Test scores are never required for transfer applicants who have completed 12 semester hours or more (after high school graduation) at the point of application.
Q. I graduated from high school more than two years ago. Do I need to submit a test score?
A. No. Test scores are not required or considered for students who graduated from high school more than two years ago.