Test Optional Policy

The University of New Haven is a test optional institution, so many programs and populations may choose whether or not to have their SAT or ACT scores considered. We follow a "do no harm" policy - so if scores are not required for your particular program or population, we will only use scores that are favorable to your decision.

Do No Harm Policy

The University of New Haven follows a "do no harm" policy regarding submitted SAT or ACT scores. If SAT or ACT scores are not required for your particular program or population, we will only use your submitted scores if they have a positive impact on your admissions decision and/or merit scholarship. If your submitted SAT or ACT scores would negatively impact your chance of admission and/or merit scholarship, we will automatically exclude your scores during the review process. Therefore, we encourage students to submit their SAT or ACT scores if available.

Are there academic programs that require test scores for admission?

The University of New Haven is not requiring SAT or ACT scores for admission into any specific academic programs for the Spring 2025 and Fall 2025 start terms. Please see below to review any populations that are required to submit SAT or ACT scores for admission.

Are there any groups of applicants that will still be required to submit standardized test scores?

Home schooled students are still required to submit SAT or ACT scores.
Online and high school equivalency applicants are still required to submit SAT or ACT scores
Students from countries where English is the official language are not required to submit test scores. If English is not the official language, one of the following standardized exams is required: TOEFL, IELTS, SAT or ACT. The University of New Haven School CEEB Code is 003663 and the ACT code is 0576.

How does the test optional policy affect scholarships and financial aid?

Merit scholarships and need-based aid programs are available to all eligible applicants should they meet the appropriate criteria. Merit scholarship awards range from $15,000-$32,000 annually, and 97% of University of New Haven students receive some form of need-based aid.

All applicants for full-time admission will be evaluated for scholarships even if they do not submit SAT/ACT scores.

What is the procedure in choosing to submit or not submit my SAT/ACT scores?

When applying using the Common Application or our UNewHaven Application, there is a section that states, "Please indicate if you would like to have your SAT or ACT scores taken into consideration when your application is reviewed for admission and merit-based scholarships," you may select from the following:

Consider my SAT and/or ACT results.
Do not consider my SAT and/or ACT results.