Self-Reported/Test Optional Admission Process

Beginning with fall 2020 students applying for domestic, undergraduate, admission to Southwest Minnesota State University will have the ability self-report their GPA and standardized test scores (ACT or SAT) to be considered for admission. Students will also have the option of submitting a standardized test score with their application.

The decision to initiate these policies is to remove any barriers towards applying for admission and better serve students.  A greater emphasis will be put on high school grades, rigor of coursework as well as involvement in their school and/or community.

We encourage students to take the ACT and/or SAT tests.  Once your score is received, if you feel it accurately reflects your academic ability, you may send the scores in and they will be considered along with the other criteria.  If you feel the scores does not accurately reflect your academic ability, the student can choose not to submit their test score.

Upon enrolling at SMSU, students will be still be required to submit a Final Official Transcript to validate their graduation and self-reported GPA.

Students who choose not to submit their standardized test scores, will have the option to take the Accuplacer tests to assist with course placement in English and Math.  Students can do this on campus at SMSU, or can receive a voucher to take it at another Minnesota State campus closer to their residence.

Students who choose not to submit their standardized test will not be at a disadvantage for admission and will still be considered for merit scholarships.

Exceptions:

1. Students who are homeschooled or attending non-graded schools are required to submit ACT or SAT test scores.
2. Students who plan to participate in NCAA Division II athletics are required to submit their standardized test scores to the NCAA Eligibility Center for NCAA initial-eligibility purposes.  However, student-athletes will not be required to submit their test scores for admission to the University.
3. This policy only applies to on campus, domestic, undergraduate students.  International Students will need to follow the admission procedure for international admission.  Extended Learning students must follow the criteria for admission to Extended Learning programs.  Graduate students will need to follow the criteria for Graduate Admission.

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If you would prefer to apply by mail, you can use the Downloadable Admission Application.

NOTE: Admission application forms request that you provide private information as defined under state and federal law; see the related Data Privacy Notice (Tennessen warning) for an explanation of this request and the policy for use of such information.