Test Optional Policy – Office of Admission

Admission Test-Optional Policy

St. Mary’s College of Maryland recognizes that an applicant’s secondary school record (their curriculum and grades) and standardized testing are the strongest predictors of success at the College. We also know that research supports – and many students believe – that SAT and ACT scores do not fully represent students’ academic achievement, potential and college preparedness, and that the secondary school record is a stronger predictor of success than standardized testing. Beginning with the Fall 2021 entering class, the College will permit applicants (with some exceptions explained below) to choose whether they wish to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of the application for undergraduate admission.

Applicants with a traditional high school record (i.e., includes a defined curriculum and letter/numerical grades) may choose to submit SAT or ACT scores by supplying the College with either official or self-reported scores. Students who submit self-reported scores will not be required to submit official test score reports unless they are admitted and choose to enroll. Admitted applicants who choose to apply under the test-optional policy and enroll at the College will submit their official test scores for institutional research purposes.

There are some applicants where absent review of their SAT or ACT scores, the College has concluded that it cannot fully assess their likelihood of success at St. Mary’s College. Those applicants will be required to submit SAT or ACT scores for undergraduate admission consideration. They include applicants: (1) who have been home-schooled; (2) who were taught in a non-traditional academic setting (i.e. without course-specific grades, pass/fail only grading scales, or narrative transcripts); and/or (3) who must demonstrate English language proficiency (i.e., are required to take an English language proficiency examination).

St. Mary’s College of Maryland is committed to a holistic review of our applicants. This includes a full review of submitted application materials, including: the application, secondary school record, recommendations, essays and any other materials submitted as part of the application. We encourage students who believe that their standardized test scores accurately reflect their academic abilities and might even give a more complete picture of achievement and potential, to submit their scores. Merit scholarships will be based on the entire submitted application information, whether the applicant has submitted standardized test scores or not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does SMCM make standardized test scores optional in the admission process?

We encourage you to take the SAT and/or ACT standardized tests. Once you receive your results you may feel that your standardized test scores do not accurately represent your academic preparedness or potential. A test-optional admissions policy allows you to choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT test scores for consideration by the Admission Committee as part of your admission review—letting you decide how best to tell your academic story.

How will SMCM evaluate students who do not choose to have their test scores considered as part of their application?

In absence of standardized test scores, we will continue to look at all submitted application materials, including the application, trends of grades; rigor of curriculum; essays; extracurricular activities; recommendations; other personal accomplishments, and any additional information consistent with our holistic review process.

Why would a student submit standardized test scores if they don’t have to?

If you think your scores are an accurate representation of your academic preparedness and might even give a more complete picture of your achievement and potential, please send them to us.

When can I apply as a test-optional student?

If you are an undergraduate applicant applying for the Fall 2021 semester or forward, you can decide whether to have your test scores considered as part of your admission review. The application for the Fall 2021 semester will open on August 1, 2020

How do I choose whether or not to have my scores considered as part of my admission review?

We encourage you to reflect on your overall academic performance in high school, with specific attention to your performance in your coursework. If you have a strong academic record but do not feel that your test results reflect your full potential, you may choose not to submit your test scores. If, however, you think your test scores may provide additional insight into your overall academic record we invite you to submit test scores.

If I want to have my test scores considered, how do I report my scores to SMCM?

You may have your SAT (code 5601) and/or ACT (code 1736) scores sent to the College directly from the testing agency. You may also self-report your test scores by entering scores in the testing section of your application, or submitting screenshots or scanned copies of score reports via email at admissions@smcm.edu. Self-reporting allows applicants who wish to self-report their scores for review by the Admission Committee instead of requiring that scores be sent from official testing agencies. If you are offered admission, enrollment will be contingent upon receipt of official test scores from the testing agencies. These scores must match or be higher than those self-reported during the admission process.

Will I be at a disadvantage if I decide not to submit standardized test scores?

No. There will be no negative impact on your application, and you will be considered for merit scholarships.

Are there any students who must include test scores as part of their application?

Yes. There are several groups of students who are required to provide standardized test scores. This includes students with non-traditional transcripts (i.e. without course specific grades, pass/fail only grading scales, or narrative transcripts) and home-schooled students in order to provide broader context to their academic record.

If English is neither your native language nor the primary language of secondary school instruction, you must demonstrate English language proficiency through standardized testing. Please visit the International Students page to learn more.

Will I be eligible for merit scholarships if I do not submit test scores?

Yes. St. Mary’s College of Maryland is committed to making scholarship opportunities available to applicants who qualify, whether they apply with or without test scores. Notification regarding merit aid is included in the admission decision letter.

Who can I talk to about this process?

We invite you to reach out to your admission counselor or to contact the Office of Admission at 240-895-5000 or admissions@smcm.edu with any questions regarding the application process.