Test-Optional Admission

Seton Hall has announced that students seeking undergraduate admission to the University will not be required to submit standardized test scores as part of the Fall 2021 through Fall 2026 application cycles. SAT and ACT scores will not be mandatory and Seton Hall will be a “test-optional” institution. Acknowledging that standardized tests are not always the best indicator of student performance, this move is another way to support students through the application process by allowing more student choice in sharing academic records and achievements.

Students will have the option to apply to Seton Hall by submitting standardized test scores or electing not to submit these scores. The Seton Hall application for admission and the Common Application will have a specific question which provides students the opportunity to make their selection. Seton Hall will review applications holistically and the student’s high school record will be of primary importance.

If a student has taken the SAT or ACT, and their scores fall within our mid-50% or higher (1180-1390 SAT or 26-31 ACT), we strongly encourage submission of these scores. These tests can provide additional information which we will consider alongside the other academic factors in your academic record. However, students who do not submit scores will not be penalized or adversely impacted in the admissions review process. Please be advised that providing standardized test scores may be required for specific academic programs and for selected scholarship opportunities (see the FAQs below for more information). Submitting these scores will also be helpful in waiving some placement tests upon enrolling at Seton Hall.

FAQs

Should I apply test optional or not?

The decision to apply test optional is a personal one and each student should make his or her own decision based on what they feel provides the best picture of their ability. Applicants who apply test optional will receive the same consideration and equal opportunity for admission to the university as those students who submit their scores. We do strongly encourage students to submit their standardized test scores if they their scores fall within our mid-50% or higher (1180-1390 SAT or 26-31 ACT). If you would like further guidance, we invite you to speak with our admissions staff by calling (973) 313-6145 or (973) 313-6146 or e-mailing thehall@shu.edu.

How do I apply test optional?

Whether you are applying using the Seton Hall online application or the Common Application, each application will ask you to indicate whether you wish to apply test optional or not. This is all you need to do to apply for test-optional admission.

Can I change my selection to or from test optional after I submit my application?

We realize this is a big decision and we want to be as flexible as possible. Therefore, if you change your mind after you apply, you can still opt to change your selection to/from test optional. To do so, please contact the admissions office by calling (973) 313-6145 or (973) 313-6146 or e-mailing thehall@shu.edu.

How will Seton Hall review applications for admission if a student does not provide their standardized test scores?

Seton Hall will take a holistic approach to reviewing all applications for admission and will review all aspects of the student’s record with a heavy emphasis on your academic record in high school, specifically looking at your grades, academic rigor, and class rank (if available).

Will I still be considered for scholarships if I do not submit my standardized test scores?

Seton Hall awards many students scholarships automatically upon admission to the University, students who apply test optional will receive equal consideration for these awards. There are however, a number of special scholarships which require an SAT or ACT score. On our special scholarship page, the scholarship criteria indicates if a specific test score minimum for a standardized test is required for that award.

Is the test-optional policy a permanent policy change?

No. The University recognizes that standardized tests are not always the best indicator of student performance and we wanted to offer the many gifted, hard-working students the ability to access a Seton Hall education through a more holistic approach. Research has shown that test-optional policies generally increase the size and diversity of applications for admission, without compromising later retention and graduation rates. The University will analyze how test-optional students perform through 2026, and then reevaluate the policy.

Can athletes apply test optional?

Yes, student-athletes can opt to apply to Seton Hall without submitting test scores. However, under the current NCAA guidelines, prospective student-athletes will still need to submit SAT and/or ACT scores to the NCAA Eligibility Center for final academic certification and to meet the NCAA sliding scale standards. Please check with the Seton Hall Athletics Compliance staff for more details.

Do home-schooled students need to submit standardized test scores?

Home-schooled students can apply for test optional admission but are highly encouraged to submit standardized test scores to assist us in the holistic review of their application for admission.

Do international students need to submit standardized test scores?

International students can apply for test-optional admission but must also submit a TOEFL or IELTS if they are not a native English speaker. If an international student submits an SAT or ACT score, they may waive the TOEFL or IELTS.

Can I gain admission to the honors or leadership program if I do not submit my standardized test scores?

Yes, students can apply test optional to the honors and leadership programs. Applications will receive holistic review based on the student’s academic record as well as supplemental application materials required for these programs.

What if I already sent you my scores or they are on my transcript, but I want to apply test optional?

If we have your scores on file and you have indicated that you wish to be test optional, we may use them for your admissions and scholarship consideration and we will update your record accordingly, if we feel your scores will advantage you in the review process. However, if the scores will not contribute to strengthening your application, we will not review these scores or consider them in your admission. 

Are there specific academic programs that require a standardized test score and will not allow me to apply test optional?

The Joint MD program will still require students to submit standardized test scores. Students cannot be admitted to this program if they apply for test-optional admission. To learn more about the requirements for the Joint MD program, click here.