For several years, Emmanuel has been evaluating the admission process to determine the best predictors for student academic success.
After studying national research and considering our own experiences, it is now clear that standardized test scores are not the best indicator of academic success in college.
The strength of students' high school curriculum and grades are much better predictors. Based on this careful analysis and discussion with faculty, administrators, secondary school guidance counselors and students, Emmanuel College became a test-optional institution.
Applicants for admission are not required to submit standardized test scores (SAT I, SAT II and ACT). Emmanuel has joined 800 other colleges and universities nationwide that deemphasize standardized testing in the admission process.
This test-optional policy has reinforced the College's commitment to understand a student's overall academic experience, regardless of performance on a single test. In addition, it has encouraged all students who have achieved success in high school to consider Emmanuel, regardless of their standardized test scores. The admission application review process has not changed significantly, as Emmanuel has always completed a holistic review of each admission applicant.
Fall 2023 applicants applying for Nursing can also apply test-optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
The test-optional policy at Emmanuel allows applicants the option to either submit or not submit their SAT or ACT scores for the purpose of the admission process. We believe students should present the fullest picture of their academic and intellectual accomplishments when applying for admission to Emmanuel College. If a student believes his/her standardized test scores will be valuable supporting information during the review process then the results might be submitted. Students who feel their high school record alone is a better indicator of their academic achievement and ability may choose to exclude their test scores from their application without penalty. Typically, about 60% of applicants still choose to submit their test scores to test-optional institutions.
For several years, Emmanuel considered eliminating the submission of SAT or ACT scores as part of the admission application process. During this time, the College carefully monitored changes in testing policies in the marketplace as well as research related to the best predictors in student success. Research has confirmed that the combination of the strength of a student's high school curriculum and grades are the strongest predictors of academic success in college. Our test-optional policy has reinforced the College's commitment to understand a student's overall academic experience as demonstrated through the high school transcript, as opposed to performance on a single test or combination of tests.
In addition, this has allowed Emmanuel to recruit candidates who challenge themselves academically and perform well in the classroom, but do not believe their test scores are an accurate reflection of their overall ability to succeed. The test-optional policy encourages all students who have achieved success in high school to strongly consider Emmanuel, regardless of their standardized test scores.
The evaluation of prospective students considers a range of factors that reflect an individual's academic record. Carefully examined is the strength of the high school, the rigor of the curriculum, grades, teacher and counselor recommendations and extracurricular activities. Additionally, you have the opportunity to further bridge your academic and personal achievements through written short answer and essay questions found in the application.
There is no supplemental component in lieu of test scores. Your academic and co-curricular achievements are highlighted and examined during the application process. You are free to submit any additional information that reflects positively on your candidacy.
Yes, all applicants are considered for all merit scholarships whether or not test scores are submitted.
The application process is designed for students to show our admissions committee why enrollment at Emmanuel College would make a great academic and personal fit. If you feel confident that your test scores accurately display your abilities and work ethic in the classroom, the scores could strengthen your application. However, if your test scores are not a good indicator of your academic achievement throughout high school, they are not required to be submitted.
You can indicate your intentions on the Emmanuel College member page of the Common Application.
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