LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The University of Louisville said ACT and SAT test scores will be optional for first-time freshman applications in fall 2021 as the coronavirus continues to disrupt testing.
Some spring and summer test dates have been canceled or postponed this year, and UofL said it hopes to alleviate anxiety over the uncertainty of future testing options by making it optional.
Tests will still be required for certain programs, like the J.B. Speed School of Engineering, School of Nursing and College of Business. Most scholarships will also require test scores. UofL will have some merit aid available for students without test scores.
“We have always attempted to look at students holistically,” said Jenny Sawyer, UofL’s executive director of admissions. "This gives us the opportunity to provide access to UofL in new ways and reduce the stress of standardized tests to our prospective students, especially during these difficult times.”
Those who choose not to submit their ACT or SAT scores will follow the same process as those who do not meet the Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education’s College Readiness Indicators, meaning they will be required to take one of several exams in math or reading to determine their proper first-year placement in courses after they are accepted.
UofL previously allowed some students to apply without ACT or SAT scores in fall 2020. Those students had to provide a personal statement and resume, and their grades and curriculum weighed more in decisions. This option will be reviewed to see if it should continue for applications beyond 2021. For more information, visit UofL's website.
►Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.
Have a news tip? Email assign@whas11.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.