Test-Optional Admissions

What does test optional mean?

Applicants will have the choice to select if they wish to have their ACT or SAT scores considered when Loyola reviews their application for admission and merit scholarship decisions.

Will my test scores be required to officially enroll?

Loyola will not require any enrolling student who did not take the SAT or ACT to take the test before attending. However, Loyola will continue to analyze the correlation between standardized testing and academic success. Therefore, all entering students who have scores will be asked to submit them prior to enrolling for their first year. This will not impact your admission status.

Loyola will need your official high school transcript with proof of graduation. 

How should I notify Loyola that I want to apply test-optional?

The Loyola Application and the Common Application have a question to select this option.

If I choose to submit test scores, how do I submit them?

You may have them reported officially from the SAT or ACT testing agency. You may also have them submitted on your high school transcript. Please use the following codes for Loyola:

SAT: 6374

ACT: 1592

What if my test scores are on my high school transcript and were already sent to Loyola?  

If you indicate on your application you want to apply test-optional we will not consider these scores during the admission or scholarship review.

Will you use weighted or unweighted GPAs?

We will review the GPA reported on your high school transcript and will honor the weighted GPA if it is higher.

For International Students: Will I need to submit a test score?

Per federal regulations, international students are required to provide proof of English Proficiency. This can be demonstrated a number of ways: ACT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, or the Duolingo English Test. Students completing English courses in the AP/IB curriculum, as well as students enrolled at a U.S. accredited high school where instruction is delivered completely in English will also satisfy this requirement.

For Transfer Students: Will I need to submit a test score?

No. Loyola only requires transcripts from all current and former institutions. 

For Athletes: Will I need to submit a test score for NAIA eligibility?

Currently, the NAIA requires a test score for eligibility.. Please visit the NAIA Eligibility Center for the most current information. 

For the University Honors Program: Will I need to submit test scores?

No, ACT or SAT scores will not be necessary to be considered as part of the Honors Program application process.

For Louisiana students: Will I still get TOPS if you do not receive my test score?

No. Currently the state agency (LOSFA) that awards TOPS requires an SAT or ACT score to award the TOPS Scholarship. You must take and submit a qualifying test score to both LOSFA and Loyola if you want to use TOPS. Loyola will only use the score to determine TOPS eligibility; it will not factor your test score into your admissions decision.

What if I do not have an official high school diploma? Can I still be accepted?

Yes. For students who have completed a homeschool curriculum or taken and passed the GED, we will review your application holistically for admission and scholarship.