Test-Optional Policy: Frequently Asked Questions

What type of student is best suited for the test-optional policy?
This policy is intended for students who have done well in their high school courses but feel that their SAT or ACT scores do not reflect their academic abilities. Evidence shows that a student's record of accomplishment and involvement over a four-year period in high school can be a stronger indicator of academic success in college than a single standardized test.

Do all applicants have the opportunity to exclude their SAT or ACT test scores?
Students who have a high school cumulative GPA above 3.0 may choose to have their test scores excluded from the application process. If your cumulative GPA is below 3.0, you are required to submit SAT or ACT test scores as part of your application.

If I choose not to have my SAT or ACT test scores reviewed, do I have to do something else instead?
Applicants who choose not to submit a standardized test score will be scheduled for a 20-30 minute interview with a Whitworth admissions representative. Most interviews will be done by phone, but they can be done in person upon request. Students will be asked to read two articles before their interview and the questions will cover the content of the articles as well as the student’s academic background.

I want to apply to Whitworth as part of the Early Action application but I have not taken the SAT or ACT test yet. What should I do?
We recommend that students wait to receive their SAT or ACT test scores before they decide if they would like to have them considered in their application for admission. This is especially important for students who may qualify for our highest academic scholarship, which has a minimum test score requirement.

I have already sent my SAT or ACT test scores to Whitworth. Am I still able to choose for my test scores to be excluded from my admissions application?
Yes. Even though we may have your test scores on file, you are still able to choose for them not to be considered as part of your admissions application – as long as you make this request before your application is reviewed by the admissions committee. An interview will be scheduled and the results of the interview will replace your test scores in the application process.

Because standardized test results are used for academic advising and course placement, all entering freshmen must submit SAT or ACT scores, if they have them, prior to enrolling.

What is the process to schedule this interview?
Once you have submitted your online application and the Admissions Office has received your official high school transcript (verifying that your cumulative GPA is above 3.0) and your secondary school report/academic recommendation, you will be contacted to set up your interview time. Once your interview has been scheduled, you will receive an email with further information and a document with two articles to read before your interview.  

What does Whitworth consider for admission?
As one of the most selective colleges in Washington, Whitworth University seeks to admit highly qualified students who are equipped to succeed in our academic environment. Our freshman-to-sophomore retention rate and graduation rate are well above national averages and provide evidence that our holistic admissions process identifies the best students for Whitworth. The following factors will be considered in evaluating applicants for admission:

1. High school record of academic rigor: We evaluate the courses taken and assess the difficulty of those courses in the context of each high school.
   
   
2. High school grades: High school GPA, considered in combination with the rigor of courses taken, is a reliable predictor of college success.
   
   
3. Admission interview: Meeting in person or speaking with an applicant on the phone helps brings the application file to life. This is required if a student chooses to not submit standardized test scores.
   
   
4. Recommendations: Teachers and counselors often have tremendous insight and can offer a perspective that helps us know an applicant better.
   
   
5. Extracurricular activities: Whitworth students tend to be very involved in campus and community life outside the classroom.
   
   
6. Personal statement=: We offer applicants an opportunity to tell us interesting or unique things about themselves.
   
   
7. SAT/ACT scores OR interview