Skip to main content
What are your chances of acceptance?
Your chance of acceptance
Duke University
Loading…
UCLA
Loading…
+ add school
Your chancing factors
Unweighted GPA: 3.7
1.0
4.0
SAT: 720 math
200
800
| 800 verbal
200
800

Extracurriculars

Low accuracy (4 of 18 factors)

HBCUs that don't require SAT scores?

I've been stressing a bit because my SAT scores aren't the best, and I heard some colleges are test-optional now. Do any HBCUs not require SAT scores for admission, and how does that work with the application process?

a year ago

Hey there! I completely understand your concern about standardized test scores. The good news is many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have adopted test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. This shift has been particularly accelerated by the pandemic, and some institutions might keep these policies in place for the foreseeable future. Schools like Howard University, Spelman College, and Morehouse College have all gone test-optional, to name a few.

When applying to a test-optional HBCU, focus on ensuring the other elements of your application are strong. This includes your high school GPA, letters of recommendation, extracurricular involvement, and personal essays. The absence of test scores means these components will play a larger role in the admissions decision. Still, they always look for a holistic picture of who you are as a student and a member of your community. Make sure to check the specific admissions website of each HBCU you're interested in for the most up-to-date information on their test-optional policies. Best of luck!

a year ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.