Test-Optional Policy

On one hand, standardized tests give us a way to measure something about your potential that we can compare equally across all applicants. However, there is concern that a test score could simply reflect how good a student is at taking tests. From this perspective, standardized tests present us with a fuller picture for some applicants but might actually limit or skew our understanding of others.

Each of these viewpoints has its merits, which is why Kent State allows you to decide whether or not to provide scores as part of your application. Overall, we’ll never let them be the guiding reason for an overall decision.

If applying through the Common App, you will be asked whether you would like test scores to be considered as part of your application. If you have previously submitted test scores to our office but indicated on the application that you would not like your scores considered, test scores will not be viewed during application review. 

If applying through the Kent State Application, there will be a simple checkbox on our application that asks if you wish to be considered for admission without test scores. It is important that you check this box if you plan to participate. Otherwise, we will assume that you wish to provide scores and may not review your application until they are submitted. 

Please note: Once an applicant indicates whether or not test scores will be submitted, it cannot be changed by the applicant online. If you wish to change your test score preference, please contact our office as soon as possible to indicate if you would or would not like your test scores to be considered for admission.

At Kent State University, we strive to make a degree from Kent State an affordable option for students and families our first priority. Students will be eligible for merit awards with or without a test score.

No, we don’t have a preference — you may submit the ACT, the SAT, or both, and we’ll look at where you did your best.

The Admissions Office will only consider the highest ACT composite score from one single test date or the highest SAT reading + math section scores from one single test date. We will always use the highest test score for admission.

No. Kent State University does not require SAT subject area tests and does not use them to determine admission to the university.

If you have any questions about our test-optional policy, contact our office at 800-988-5638 or admissions@kent.edu. You may also contact your admissions counselor.

On one hand, standardized tests give us a way to measure something about your potential that we can compare equally across all applicants. However, there is concern that a test score could simply reflect how good a student is at taking tests. From this perspective, standardized tests present us with a fuller picture for some applicants but might actually limit or skew our understanding of others.

Each of these viewpoints has its merits, which is why Kent State allows you to decide whether or not to provide scores as part of your application. Overall, we’ll never let them be the guiding reason for an overall decision.

If applying through the Common App, you will be asked whether you would like test scores to be considered as part of your application. If you have previously submitted test scores to our office but indicated on the application that you would not like your scores considered, test scores will not be viewed during application review. 

If applying through the Kent State Application, there will be a simple checkbox on our application that asks if you wish to be considered for admission without test scores. It is important that you check this box if you plan to participate. Otherwise, we will assume that you wish to provide scores and may not review your application until they are submitted. 

Please note: Once an applicant indicates whether or not test scores will be submitted, it cannot be changed by the applicant online. If you wish to change your test score preference, please contact our office as soon as possible to indicate if you would or would not like your test scores to be considered for admission.

At Kent State University, we strive to make a degree from Kent State an affordable option for students and families our first priority. Students will be eligible for merit awards with or without a test score.

No, we don’t have a preference — you may submit the ACT, the SAT, or both, and we’ll look at where you did your best.

The Admissions Office will only consider the highest ACT composite score from one single test date or the highest SAT reading + math section scores from one single test date. We will always use the highest test score for admission.

No. Kent State University does not require SAT subject area tests and does not use them to determine admission to the university.

If you have any questions about our test-optional policy, contact our office at 800-988-5638 or admissions@kent.edu. You may also contact your admissions counselor.