Apply without including test 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Resources:
Bates College Study
“20-year Bates College study of optional SATs finds no differences”
Educational Advisory Board
“Weighing the pros and cons of a test-optional admissions policy”
Inside Higher Ed
“Making the case for test optional”
National Association for College Admission Counseling
“Defining access: How test-optional works (PDF)”