Test-free means that we will not review standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for general admission and merit scholarship consideration. This is different than the growing number of "test-optional" institutions, where you can choose whether you would like your test score included as part of admission.
Test-free Admissions Processes
We no longer consider ACT or SAT scores for general admission or merit scholarships. We'll look at your high school GPA instead. Research shows that GPA is a better indicator of success in college.
You may need to provide your ACT or SAT score for certain other competitive scholarships.
GPA Criteria
If you have a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher, you're guaranteed general admission to the University. There are some limited-admission programs which may have additional program admission requirements. Read more about our Limited Admission Programs.
Holistic Review Process
If your GPA is below 3.0, we'll process your application through holistic review—a personalized evaluation of your application and circumstances. Our holistic review process considers your individual situation, involvement and achievements in addition to your academic record. As part of the process, we'll ask you to provide one or more of the following:
- Responses to the holistic review questions.
- Grades from the first semester of your senior year.
- An interview.
Learn how to prepare for the holistic review process.
Holistic Review and the CHANCE Program
After being accepted to NIU through the holistic review process, you may be selected to join our CHANCE Program, which provides additional guidance and support. You can also nominate yourself to participate. Learn more about joining the CHANCE Program.
University Honors
The University Honors Program also uses a holistic review process and does not consider ACT or SAT scores. Learn how to apply for the University Honors Program.
Frequently Asked Questions
General
Our decision to go test-free comes from our deep commitment to making a college education accessible, affordable and equitable for a broad and diverse student population. National higher educational studies, as well as our own analysis, shows that a student’s high school GPA is a much better indicator of future academic success than performance on a standardized test.
This compelling research shows that underprivileged students and students with disabilities are disadvantaged with standardized testing due to costs and inaccessibility of test preparation resources and courses. We’re consistently working to eliminate unnecessary and biased barriers throughout a student’s educational path to help foster success and social mobility.
No. In fact, before the new policy, students with a 2.5 GPA or higher could potentially be automatically admitted, depending upon their standardized test scores. The new policy increases that automatic admission GPA to 3.0.
For students with a GPA below 3.0, we'll use a holistic application review to make admission decisions based upon the specific circumstances of each student and to determine each student's likely ability to succeed.
No. We won't consider your SAT or ACT score for general admission or merit scholarships. You will need to send your final official high school transcript, with proof of graduation, before you register for courses.
No. We'll award merit scholarships based on your GPA.
There are a few scholarships that still require the SAT or ACT.
If you send in your test scores, we won't review them for general admission or merit scholarships. We'll add them to your file, in case they're needed in the future.
We'll consider both, depending on what's listed on your high school transcript. If there's a weighted GPA on your transcript, we'll consider it for both general admission and merit scholarships.
If you have a GPA below 3.0, we'll use a holistic application review process to make an admission decision based on your specific circumstances.
In a holistic application review, we consider many factors, including your academic preparation, academic performance, motivation, resilience and resourcefulness. This helps us get to know you personally and determine your likely ability to succeed.
We may request additional materials to complete the review. Be sure to submit these as soon as possible, so we can complete the review and give you an admission decision.
Applying in Certain Situations
You won't need to submit an SAT or ACT score. You will need to submit all other official test scores, including TOEFL, IELTS or PTE Academic.
No. You won't need to submit your SAT or ACT score.
Yes. We'll use a holistic application review process to get to know you and your specific circumstances. We'll base our admission decision on the holistic application review.
Yes. If you're a homeschooled student, or if you have a passing GED score, we'll use a holistic application review process to get to know you and your specific circumstances. We'll base our admission decision on the holistic application review.
Yes. The NCAA requires you to take the SAT or ACT to determine initial eligibility for participation in a Division I sport.
Applying to Specific Programs
With the equity-minded, test-free admission and holistic review processes implemented by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, the McKinley "Deacon" Davis CHANCE Program has shifted to fully devote its staff and resources to support students through their NIU journey.
No. You won't need to submit your test scores to apply to a limited admission program.