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.

On both the Common App and Kent State Application, you will be asked if you want your test scores to be considered with your application. If you select Yes, we will review your application when test scores and other requirements are received. If you select No, your application will be reviewed once all other application requirements are fulfilled. If you choose to use test scores and your application completes without them, we may choose to review your application under our test-optional policy.

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. If you choose to use your test scores in the admission decision, the scores will also be used for scholarship consideration.

If test scores are not received within two weeks of other materials and the application is otherwise complete, the application will be reviewed without test scores. Scores found on your high school transcript will be recorded when the transcript is reviewed. If you submit test scores at a later date, they can be considered in our merit scholarship review process, which will only increase your merit award offer should you qualify.

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.

On both the Common App and Kent State Application, you will be asked if you want your test scores to be considered with your application. If you select Yes, we will review your application when test scores and other requirements are received. If you select No, your application will be reviewed once all other application requirements are fulfilled. If you choose to use test scores and your application completes without them, we may choose to review your application under our test-optional policy.

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. If you choose to use your test scores in the admission decision, the scores will also be used for scholarship consideration.

If test scores are not received within two weeks of other materials and the application is otherwise complete, the application will be reviewed without test scores. Scores found on your high school transcript will be recorded when the transcript is reviewed. If you submit test scores at a later date, they can be considered in our merit scholarship review process, which will only increase your merit award offer should you qualify.

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.