Test Optional Policy

The University of New Haven does not require students interested in most of our academic programs to submit SAT/ACT scores. As a student-first institution that deeply cares for education to be both personal and pragmatic, the University of New Haven strives to empower students to achieve excellence and success. By having a test optional policy, we want students to determine if their SAT/ACT scores are an accurate representation of their academic ability. If they feel that their SAT/ACT scores are not, they will not be penalized during admission review if they do not submit test scores.

Do No Harm Policy

The University of New Haven has a "Do No Harm" policy regarding SAT or ACT scores when reviewing applications. We will only use your submitted SAT or ACT score results if the scores have a positive effect on your admissions decision and/or scholarship. If your SAT or ACT scores would negatively affect your chance of admission and/or scholarship, we will automatically exclude your scores during the review process.

Are there academic programs that require test scores for admission?

Yes. The University of New Haven requires students to submit SAT/ACT scores when applying to the following program:

Forensic Science (Except Fall 2024)

In addition to the academic programs listed above, 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.
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.
Prospective student-athletes for any of our NCAA Division II athletic teams must send scores to NCAA Eligibility Center Only (except applicants applying for Fall 2024 admission).

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 $10,000-$30,000 annually, and 97% of University of New Haven students receive some form of need-based aid.

The potential for increased scholarship opportunities are available to students who submit strong SAT/ACT scores, but all students 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: