Indiana Wesleyan University is adopting a test optional policy for new students applying for admission for entry in the Spring or Fall 2021. The policy means ACT or SAT scores are not required for students seeking admission to the residential campus, though students may still elect to submit their test scores. The Admissions Committee reserves the right to request test scores if a student is below established academic thresholds as part of the review process. Additionally, academic divisions reserve the ability to require test scores as related to a specific requirement for an academic program.
Although the university began exploring the addition of a test-optional policy in 2019, the realities of covid-19 have accelerated the decision to remove the ACT or SAT test requirement. Specifically, cancellations of national testing opportunities have left many juniors with reduced options for taking the ACT or SAT and concerns about their ability to be admitted to colleges of choice.
Chad Peters, Vice President for Enrollment Management stated, “Over the past decade, a growing body of research has clearly demonstrated that standardized testing is not always an accurate indicator of students’ curiosity, academic ability, motivation in college, or overall success. At a time when standardized testing opportunities are limited and where inequalities around standardized testing are accentuated, we are confident this is the right decision for our institution and students.”
Incoming students who are interested in studying at IWU beginning with the Spring 2021 or Fall 2021 semesters now have a choice whether to include their ACT or SAT scores when submitting their application. To further support students, the Office of Financial Aid is reviewing adjustments to the academic merit award to ensure that students without ACT or SAT scores receive equitable scholarships.
Although the new test-optional policy does not apply to students entering IWU for fall 2020, the Office of Admissions has implemented a number of policy and practice changes to assist incoming students facing barriers to entering IWU. Details of the new testing policy can be found at https://www.indwes.edu/undergraduate/admissions/admissions-requirements.