DWU ACT/SAT Test-Optional Admission Information
Dakota Wesleyan University seeks to be at the forefront of building different, innovative, and relevant pathways for higher education that increase access. DWU aims to remove barriers that may impede some students’ ability to pursue a Dakota Wesleyan education. With that aim, DWU no longer requires first-year students to submit their standardized test scores as a part of their application. There are exceptions for certain students/programs where scores are required.
Students who believe their standardized test scores do not accurately represent their academic abilities and chances for success may benefit from applying without submitting test scores. Students choosing to apply without submitting test scores should still strive to maintain a cumulative high school GPA of at least 3.0.
FAQs
What is test-optional?
DWU’s test-optional admission policy allows students to apply for admission without submitting ACT or SAT scores. Applicants who choose not to submit scores will be reviewed based on other measures of academic performance, such as grade point average and high school coursework.
Test scores will still be considered for students who do wish to submit them, and those scores will still be taken into account regarding their applications.
Who might consider applying without submitting test scores?
Students who believe their standardized test scores do not accurately represent their academic abilities and chances for success may benefit from applying without submitting test scores. Students choosing to apply without submitting test scores should still strive to maintain a cumulative high school GPA of at least 3.0.
Who would still be required to submit test scores?
- NAIA student athletes
At this time, because of NAIA eligibility rules, student athletes are required to submit official scores in order to be declared eligible for competition. These scores are submitted to both DWU and the NAIA.
- International Students
International students are still required to submit English Language Test Scores (TOEFL, IELTS, PTE) or College Preparation Test Scores (ACT, SAT) for admission consideration.
- Homeschooled Students without a transcript
- Early Admission (Direct-Entry) Nursing Applicants
Students wishing to be considered for direct-entry admission into our nursing program should submit test scores. Students who choose not to submit test scores during the application process may still declare a nursing major but will apply for entry into the program during their second year at DWU.
- Candidates for the competitive merit scholarships (Randall and Presidential Leadership)
- Other outside scholarships may require a standardized test score, including but not limited to Dakota Corps, South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship and more.
What if I already sent my test scores, but decide to apply test optional?
If a student has already submitted their test scores, or the scores appear on their high school transcript, and they wish to apply test-optional, the scores will not be considered in the application review process.
As a university that is dedicated to the one-on-one experience, we are ready to evaluate any changes you make regarding your decision to apply test-optional or not. Please address any questions to your admission counselor.