For students preparing to apply

FAQs about Ohio State's test-optional policy

Are standardized test scores required?

The submission of test scores is optional for applicants to the Columbus campus for the 2024 and 2025 spring, summer and autumn semesters. Applicants must let us know on the Common Application whether or not to consider their test scores.

Information to help guide your choice:

  • We recommend applicants take the ACT or SAT and submit test scores if they are available, as we believe that standardized test scores provide useful information and predictive value about a student’s potential for success at Ohio State.

  • Applicants who do not have scores, have limited opportunities to test more than once, or feel that their scores don't reflect their ability to be successful at Ohio State should select the "do not consider ACT or SAT scores" option when completing the Common Application.

  • If you choose to not have scores submitted, you will still receive full consideration in the admissions process and in review for scholarships, direct enrollment to your college or school, Honors and Scholars Programs, and the Morrill Scholarship Program.

How do I tell Ohio State that I do not plan to submit a test score?

First-year applicants will be asked if they plan to submit SAT or ACT scores on the Common Application.

Transfer applicants with fewer than 30 semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) earned at the time of their application will be able to indicate on the Ohio State application (transfer applicants don't use the Common Application) if they plan to submit SAT or ACT scores. Inclusion of test scores is recommended.

When do I need to decide if I am submitting a test score? Can I change my mind?

You'll be asked to indicate your choice when completing the Common Application. Changes to that decision can be made until the deadline for your decision plan (November 1 for early action or February 1 for regular decision). After that deadline, you may only update your test optional preference if you are impacted by a canceled test.

Notes:

  • Testing close to an application deadline will require you to submit scores to Ohio State without first reviewing them.

  • If you choose to submit your SAT or ACT scores as part of your application, your application will be incomplete until official scores are received from the testing agency.

How will my application be evaluated without a test score?

Applicants to Ohio State’s Columbus campus are considered for admission on a competitive basis. Our holistic review process looks for evidence that an applicant is prepared for the academic rigor of the Ohio State classroom and is ready to contribute to the Ohio State community.

I'm applying to be a first-year student. Do I need to submit a test score to be considered for Honors and Scholars Programs, merit scholarships or the Morrill Scholarship Program?

No. First-year applicants will receive full consideration for these programs and scholarships even if they are unable or choose not to submit a test score.

Are test scores required for consideration for direct enrollment into my college or school of interest?

No. You will receive full consideration for direct enrollment even if you are unable or choose not to submit a test score.

If I indicated that I didn't want my test scores considered, how will I be placed into English and math courses?

If you’re a new, first-year student who didn't submit ACT or SAT scores as part of your admissions application, you won't be able to submit scores for placement purposes.

Instead, there are three options for assessing your placement for English and math:

  1. We'll use any applicable AP scores (3 or higher) or IB scores (4 or higher).

  2. If you've earned college credit, we'll use your applicable transfer credit (C or higher in equivalent courses).

  3. Or, you'll take placement test(s) before orientation (note that for math placement, you'll start with the B Test and, depending on your score, you may be eligible to take the D Test, which may result in a higher placement level).

We'll let you know if you need to take placement tests, since you'll need to know your English and math placement to schedule courses at orientation. If you do, be sure to do your best: you won't be able to repeat them.

I am a recruited student-athlete. Do I need to submit a test score?

As a recruited student-athlete, submitting a test score as part of your application for admission is optional. However, you are still required to follow all initial eligibility requirements set forth by the NCAA Eligibility Center. If you have questions, please contact Ohio State's Office of University Compliance and Integrity.

I am or was home schooled. Do I need to submit a test score?

No. Home-schooled applicants must submit an approved “excuse from attendance” verification (or equivalent) provided by a local school district or state official. Alternatively, Columbus campus applicants may submit ACT or SAT scores instead. This policy also applies to transfer applicants who have earned fewer than 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) after high school graduation.

My high school uses narrative or mastery evaluations. Do I need to submit a test score?

No. Applicants whose high school transcripts supply narrative or mastery evaluations are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their application. For transfer applicants, submission of a test score is encouraged but optional for those who have earned fewer than 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) after high school graduation.

I attend or graduated from a non-chartered high school. Do I need to submit a test score?

No. Applicants who attend a non-chartered high school are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their application. For transfer applicants, submission of a test score is encouraged but optional for those who have earned fewer than 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) after high school graduation.

I have a GED. Do I need to submit a test score?

No. Applicants who earned a GED are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their application. For transfer applicants, submission of a test score is encouraged but optional for those with a GED who have earned fewer than 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) after receipt of the GED.

I graduated from high school more than two years ago. Do I need to submit a test score?

No. Test scores are not required or considered for students who graduated from high school more than two years ago.

I am a transfer applicant. Do I need to submit a test score?

Submission of test scores is encouraged but optional for transfer applicants with fewer than 30 hours after high school graduation at the point of application (with the exceptions noted above). Test scores are never required for transfer applicants who have completed 30 semester hours or more (after high school graduation) at the point of application.

I am an international applicant. Do I need to submit a test score?

No. International applicants are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. However, proof of English language proficiency is still required.

I am applying to an Ohio State regional campus. Do I need to submit a test score?

Submission of test scores for regional campus applicants is optional but strongly encouraged.