IU Trustees Make Test Scores Optional

BLOOMINGTON – Students who intend to apply to any Indiana University campus might not have to fret over their scores from ACT or SAT exams.

The IU Board of Trustees on Friday approved a change in policy allowing the schools to opt out of using the standardized test scores as a basis for admission.

Faculty leadership from each campus will now have its chance to set its own rules on the test-optional admissions policy.

The board says academic success at the college level depends on a range of factors, saying high school GPA may be a better predictor of academic success at college.

“We also know that for some students, a standardized test score may not show all that a student is capable of and tell the full story of his or her potential,” said David Johnson, vice provost for enrollment management at IU Bloomington. “The integrity of IU’s academic excellence remains unchanged, while at the same time we’re expanding access to the university and the opportunities an IU degree offers.”

With this potential change in policy, students will be able to choose whether their standardized test scores are considered during the admission process. If approved, the new policy would take effect for students applying for the fall 2021 semester.