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What You Need to Know About Applying Test-Optional 

If you’ve been researching colleges, you’ve likely seen the words “test-optional” floating around. Test-optional admissions is a new concept for most students, and you’re sure to have questions about what exactly it means for you. Is taking the ACT or SAT really optional? Are the tests optional for everyone or just some people? Should you still take the test?

How should a student decide whether or not to apply test-optional?

Pitt’s decision to go test-optional through Fall 2025 is to ensure that no student is denied the opportunity to be considered for admission, particularly in light of ongoing challenges with access to SAT and ACT test centers. For those with SAT/ACT scores, how they wish to present themselves to the Admissions Committee should be a personal decision. If a student has reviewed our Class Profile and does not consider their test results to be an accurate reflection of their past academic performance and future academic potential, the student may want to apply test-optional. Subsequently, students with SAT/ACT results they believe add to their overall academic portfolio are invited to submit those scores.

What other materials should test-optional students submit for admission consideration?

Test optional students are required to submit either a Personal Statement or the Common Application Essay. While we are not actively seeking out Letters of Recommendation, we look forward to learning more about you by reviewing a Resume or Common App Activities List, and/or your Personal Statement or Common App Essay. If you did not yet provide those items, please feel free to submit a Resume or a Personal Statement.

Can home schooled students apply as test-optional?

All home schooled students applying through the Fall 2025 term are required to submit SAT/ACT scores.

Are test-optional students eligible for the Guaranteed Admissions Programs?

Yes, test-optional students are eligible for Guaranteed Admissions Programs.

If students apply test-optional, can they supply test scores to appeal their admission, scholarship or honors decision?

No. Requests for appeals will use the test-optional choice originally provided at the time of application submission.

Are test-optional students eligible for merit-based scholarships?

Yes, test-optional students are eligible for merit-based scholarships.

Are test optional students eligible for admission to the Frederick Honors College?

Yes, test-optional students are eligible to be admitted to Frederick Honors College and are eligible to be nominated for the Chancellor’s Scholarship.

Can a student change his/her mind about applying test-optional once the application is submitted?

Once the application is ready to go to the Admissions Committee, the student’s test-optional choice is confirmed and cannot be changed.

What if a student submitted SAT/ACT scores prior to submitting the application but has chosen to apply test-optional and doesn’t want those scores used in the admissions decision?

If a student applies test-optional, any previously submitted scores will not be used in the review process.