Test-Optional Admission FAQs

Traditionally, OLLU and most other universities have required that you submit an SAT or ACT test score as part of your application for admission. With a test-optional policy, you get to decide if you want to include a test score in your application packet or not. If you opt to go without a test score, your application for admission will be evaluated on the types of courses taken in high school and GPA in those courses.

It depends on how well you do on standardized exams. Think of it this way: choose the path that shines the brightest light on your academic qualities and makes you the most competitive for admission and scholarship consideration.

Opting Out

If you do not do well on standardized tests or if you believe your current scores don’t reflect your academic abilities and potential, you may want to opt out of including test scores in your admission packet. Applicants who opt out will be evaluated on the rigor of courses taken in high school and performance (GPA) in those courses. 

Opting In

If you are comfortable taking standardized tests and do well on them, or are content with your current scores, opting to include test scores in your admission packet may be a good fit for you. If you decide to include test scores in your packet, remember that OLLU will still consider the academic rigor of your high school courses and GPA. OLLU also will superscore your ACT or SAT scores, meaning if you test more than more once, we will use the best scores from the sections of each test.

Yes.  OLLU will continue to make scholarships available to all admitted students regardless of whether you opt in or opt out.

Unfortunately, no.  After committing to a test-optional decision, you cannot reverse course. However, you can submit your scores to assist with placement in freshman English and Math classes.

If you do not submit ACT or SAT scores, the university may ask you to take a placement test such as the Accuplacer exam.

No.  If you intend to apply as a transfer student with more than 12 hours of college-level academic credit, OLLU does not require test scores.  If, however, you apply with fewer than 12 credit hours, OLLU will consider you a non-traditional freshman, which is not the same as a transfer student.

No. International students are not required to submit an ACT or SAT but are required to submit the Test of English as a Foreign Language or International English Language Testing System. 

You will need to declare your decision when you complete the application for admission. You may apply for admission through the OLLU application or the ApplyTexas application . On both applications, there is a section that asks you to select the criteria under which you would like your application reviewed. If you want to opt in and include SAT or ACT scores as part of your application, then select “I will submit scores as part of my application.” If you choose to opt out of submitting scores, then select “I will not submit scores as part of my application.” 

Choosing which application path is best for you is a big decision and may require some additional guidance.  Be sure to talk with your high school guidance counselor or an OLLU admissions representative for their insight. Contact the OLLU Office of Admission at 210-431-3961 or email admissions@ollusa.edu.