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Worcester State University no longer requires SAT or ACT scores as part of the application. By eliminating test score requirements, it is becoming easier for everyone—no matter their background—to have access to a Worcester State education. The University’s focus in making admission decisions for first-year applicants will be on high school academic work and grade point average. Worcester State believes that four years of perseverance, motivation, and hard work are the best indicators of success in college and beyond.
By choosing to apply as a test-optional candidate, you will not be negatively impacted. Test-optional applications will be fully considered for the Sheehan Honors Program as well as for merit scholarships. Nursing and Occupational Studies candidates for fall 2023 may also choose to apply under the test-optional admission policy.
Some exceptions may apply. Read the most frequently asked questions or speak to an admissions counselor for more information.
On the application under enrollment preferences, select “YES” to the test-optional question. You will need to submit a personal essay in its place and a letter of recommendation from a high school teacher or counselor.
If you are satisfied with your test scores and believe they are indicative of your academic achievement, then the University is happy to consider them as part of your application. If you have a strong academic record demonstrated by above average grades, but do not feel your test results are a good reflection of your academic performance, you can choose not to submit them. Worcester State offers these guidelines:
You must email the Admissions Department at admissions@worcester.edu to change your status before your application is reviewed. If an admissions decision has already been made, you cannot change your status to test optional.
Yes, every accepted student is considered for a merit scholarship. Test scores are not required for merit scholarship consideration.
Yes. If you wish to be considered for the Honors Program, you may choose the “No Test” option. Test scores are not required for consideration for the honors program.
Yes. However, you must take the TOEFL exam to demonstrate English proficiency.
If your scores are sent to us from the testing agency or are included on your high school transcript, you can still apply test optional as long as you indicate that option on your application. If you apply test optional, your test scores will not be taken into consideration as part of the application review.
Worcester State recommends that you apply for the SAT/ACT test waiver by disclosing a learning disability under the enrollment preferences section on the admission application. You will need to submit your Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) and cognitive testing to the Admissions Office to be considered for the SAT/ACT waiver.
Whether a student chooses to send scores or not, the university’s decision process will be similar. Worcester State focuses on academic achievement, rigor of high school coursework, and your personal qualities as learned from your essay and letters of recommendation.
Generally speaking, test scores are not required for transfer applicants who have 12 or more transferable credits and a minimum 2.5 college GPA. However, there are specific circumstances when test scores may be requested by the admissions committee. Applicants may contact the Admissions Transfer Center at transfer@worcester.edu for additional information.
No. Worcester State will not require test scores once you enroll.
