Should I choose to include my test scores on the application for admission? At the University of Iowa, we provide a straightforward flexible process so you can apply with confidence.
The Office of Admissions at the University of Iowa encourages students to take the ACT or SAT as they plan for college. Applicants have the opportunity to self-report a test score on the application for admission or to apply without providing a test score. A standardized test score is not required for general admission, direct admission to academic programs, or consideration for most merit scholarships. Applicants are still encouraged to include a test score on the application if they have one, as test scores will only be used if they benefit the applicant.
Updating Test Scores After Application
A unique feature of Iowa’s test optional process is that we allow students who apply without a test score to change their mind after applying, and even after receiving an admission or scholarship decision. Students who wish to add new or updated test scores to their application may submit them via their admission profile in MyUI or have official ACT or SAT scores sent. Subsequent receipt of test scores will never negatively impact a previous admission or scholarship decision. New or updated test scores must be received by April 1, 2025, to be considered for additional scholarship consideration. Standardized tests taken after February 2025 will not be used for additional scholarship consideration.
Scholarships
All admitted first-year students entering Fall 2025 will be considered for merit scholarships awarded by the Office of Admissions. This includes those admitted without a test score. Typically, students who are admitted with a strong academic record and test scores above the institutional averages (at or above 26 ACT/1230 SAT) will have more opportunities for larger merit scholarships compared to those admitted without a test score.
Students who choose to include a test score in their application will be reviewed for scholarships both with and without a test score and will receive the best possible offer between the two options, maximizing their scholarship opportunities.
Evaluation and Decision Timeline Without Test Scores
Individual review of applicants who choose not to include a test score will largely focus on rigor of academic coursework and grades. If a student does not provide an ACT or SAT test score at the time of application, they may be required to submit additional academic documents, transcripts, or a personal statement to receive an admission decision. Students will be contacted via email if any additional documents are required.
Applicants who do not provide test scores may be initially reviewed and placed into a pool for secondary review. Admission decisions from this pool will be released on the following dates:
Students will be notified of their status throughout this process if they have been admitted, denied or moved to the next release date. A student can provide a test score at any time to move back into the Regent Admission Index (RAI) rolling admission process and potentially expedite an admissions decision.
If a personal statement is requested, applicants should use this opportunity to inform the admission committee more about themselves by providing additional information that is not present on the application or on a transcript. Applicants may meet the personal statement requirement by submitting ONE of the following:
The recommended length for a personal statement is approximately 650 words. Please note that there is no strict word count or limits implemented, and the general length of the essay will not be the basis of admission decisions. Upload personal statements via the Admissions Profile in MyUI
Additional information is not required but can be submitted as part of the individual review process. These items include any awards or recognition, Classic Learning Test (CLT) results, or additional AP coursework.
This page will be updated regularly with information regarding testing and admission at the University of Iowa.