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Test Optional Policy

Test Optional Policy

Apply without including test scores

If you’re applying for admission to Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, you are no longer required to submit your ACT or SAT test scores as part of your application. Saint Mary’s University has adopted a test optional admission policy beginning fall 2020. This means you choose whether or not you want to include your scores.

How to apply for test optional admission

To apply without submitting your test scores, you must indicate you’ll be applying through the test optional process on the Common Application or the Saint Mary’s University application.

On the application, you will be asked, “Should Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota consider your ACT or SAT scores when evaluating your application for admission and scholarships?” Answer “No.” Test scores will not be used (even if submitted) for admission or merit scholarship consideration if this option is selected.

Frequently Q&A

No. There will be no negative impact on applications without test scores, and applicants will still be considered for our undergraduate scholarships and financial aid.

- Students interested in being considered for the 3+2 Physician Assistant Program. View requirements.
- Students who have been homeschooled or attended non-grade-based schools will need to submit ACT, SAT, or CLT.
- International students who need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language will need to submit ACT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, DET, or PTE Academics.

Yes! If you want to send us your scores, you will need to fill in our school code when registering for the ACT and SAT tests. We will also accept screenshots from the ACT or SAT website provided they include your name, test date, and all subscores.

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota ACT school code: 2148
Send us your ACT scores

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota SAT school code: 6632
Send us your SAT scores

Classic Learning Test (CLT): Log in to your CLT account to obtain your test results. Send scores to admission@smumn.edu.

Applicants may self-report test scores when applying, either by reporting them on the Common Application or sending a copy of test scores or screenshots via email to admission@smumn.edu. When self-reporting, include subscores and testing date.

Why did Saint Mary’s University decide to adopt a test optional admission policy?

We realize standardized test results don’t provide a complete picture of a student’s future potential. Studies have shown a more accurate measure of whether or not a student will be successful is ongoing, daily work, which is show on an applicant’s high school transcript compared to the test score achieved on one particular day. Many ACT and SAT test dates were canceled as a result of COVID-19, at no fault of the student. A student’s transcript will provide admission counselors with the information required to determine an applicant’s ability to succeed in our academic environment.

How are students who do not submit standardized test scores evaluated?

We will review all other required materials, including high school transcripts. An admission counselor will closely evaluate the applicant’s high school work: curriculum, trends in grades, and how they have challenged themselves. We’ll also factor in extracurricular activities, volunteer service, and any other information provided. While submitting an essay and letters of recommendation is optional, we strongly recommend these are provided so we can get a clearer picture of the applicant.

Why would a student submit standardized test scores if they don’t have to?

Students are advised to take standardized tests so they may fully explore their options and prepare for later standardized test such as the GRE and MCAT. For some students, test scores more accurately reflect their academic abilities and possibly provide a more holistic picture of achievement and potential.

How does this affirm and promote the mission of Saint Mary’s University?

We offer a liberal arts education enriched by the Lasallian Catholic heritage that awakens, nurtures, and empowers learners to ethical lives of service and leadership. We evaluate our applications holistically and believe student success and achievement cannot be accurately or solely measured by standardized testing alone. Rather, we look for students who have achieved academically and demonstrated the attributes of maturity, commitment, creativity, motivation, and leadership.

Who should not report their test scores?

Students who feel their test scores do not accurately reflect their academic potential or students who have been unable to complete tests can choose whether or not to submit their scores. Those with strong college potential will continue to be accepted and awarded scholarships based on other application components, including high school transcripts and extracurricular involvement.

Does this mean Saint Mary’s University is lowering their admission standards?

No! The strength of a student’s high school transcript, which includes GPA and rigor of courses completed to prepare for college, has always been our main focus when determining whether or not applicants will be successful at Saint Mary’s. Having a test optional admission policy reaffirms the importance of a student’s long-term preparation for college inside the classroom. It’s the course choices and work done on a daily basis that best determine an applicant’s success at Saint Mary’s.

Will I be eligible for merit scholarships if I apply test optional?

Yes. All applicants are eligible for merit awards.

Does Saint Mary’s University superscore ACT and SAT results?

Yes. Superscoring means we will combine applicant’s best subject scores from multiple test dates to calculate the composite score. For example, perhaps an applicant took the ACT three times. Maybe the best math subscore came from the first test, the best reading subscore came from the second test, and the best science subscore from the third test. Send us the results of each test, and we will superscore them.

More information and resources

For more information about test optional admission policies and for a list of other colleges and universities who give students options with standardized testing and admission, visit fairtest.org.

Fairtest.org