Hello fellow applicants! I've been looking into the University of Maryland, but I'm not sure about whether they still have a test optional policy for SATs/ACTs. Can anyone confirm if they're still following this policy, and if so, how much weight do they give to other components of the application?
Yes, the University of Maryland (UMD) is still following a test-optional policy for undergraduate applicants until at least the Spring and Fall 2025 admissions cycles. As of now, they continue to provide students the option to submit or not submit their standardized test scores as part of their application.
In the absence of test scores, UMD admissions officers place greater emphasis on other components of your application, such as your grades, course rigor, extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation. Since the University practices a holistic admissions process, they evaluate each applicant's profile in its entirety, considering both academic and non-academic factors.
If you decide not to submit test scores, remember to highlight your strengths and achievements in other areas. Make sure to craft a compelling personal statement and provide details about extracurricular involvements that demonstrate your passions and commitment. Good luck with your application!
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