Test-Optional Policy FAQs

Due to the recent test cancellations and closed test centers for both the College Board and ACT, Inc., Saint Mary’s College of California will not require an SAT or ACT score for those applying for college admission for spring 2021 or fall 2021. Any previous GPA requirements for test-optional eligibility will be waived. Students who have already taken an SAT or ACT test and feel that their test scores enhance their admissions application may submit scores but are not required to do so. All students who apply with or without test scores will be reviewed holistically and will be evaluated equally for admission and merit scholarships. 

*Update: Due to the recent test cancellations and closed test centers for both the College Board and ACT, Inc., Saint Mary’s College of California will not require an SAT or ACT score for those applying for college admission for spring 2021 or fall 2021. Any previous GPA requirements for test-optional eligibility will be waived. Students who have already taken an SAT or ACT test and feel that their test scores enhance their admissions application may submit scores but are not required to so. All students who apply with or without test scores will be reviewed holistically, be evaluated equally for admission and merit scholarships. 

The following students must submit official ACT or SAT scores:

• Students with a cumulative weighted GPA below 3.25
• Due to recent changes from the NCAA, student athletes who have been recruited to play in one of Saint Mary's College Division I programs may or may not be required to submit standardized test scores, depending on other criteria. Please contact the Athletic Compliance Office for specific details.
• Homeschooled students who are not affiliated with a charter/private school or a district-led independent study program must submit ACT or SAT scores. These students must also submit official results of the GED or state-approved High School Proficiency Examination.
• Students attending a portfolio school, or a school that does not provide grades or a convertible grade point average must provide ACT or SAT scores.

Yes. International students do not have to submit SAT or ACT scores. However, we do require international students to provide proof of English proficiency, which can be satisfied in a number of ways, including with test scores. Click here for a full list of ways to demonstrate English proficiency.

Saint Mary’s College test-optional admissions policy is permanent for first-year students applying for fall 2021 and beyond.

Any previous GPA requirements for test-optional eligibility will be waived. Students who have already taken an SAT or ACT test and feel that their test scores enhance their admissions application may submit scores but are not required to so. All students who apply with or without test scores will be reviewed holistically, be evaluated equally for admission and merit scholarships. 

No, transfer students do not have to submit SAT or ACT scores under any circumstances. Click here for more information on transfer admissions requirements.