Test-Optional FAQs
Apply to Suffolk and enjoy that feeling when the choice is yours. It’s up to you whether you send us your SAT or ACT results. If you feel your test scores accurately reflect your abilities and academic potential and can strengthen your application, we encourage you to include them. If, however, you feel your high school record (your courses and grades), recommendations, writing skills, and cocurricular activities are better indicators of your academic achievement, please don’t feel obligated to submit your test scores.
Test-Optional FAQs
Without test scores, how will Suffolk evaluate my admission application?
Our evaluation of prospective students considers a range of factors that reflect an individual's academic record. In the absence of a test score, we will carefully examine all factors of your application, including the rigor of your curriculum and grades earned in academic coursework; performance in honors, International Baccalaureate, and Advanced Placement courses; your Suffolk-specific essay; teacher and counselor recommendations; extracurricular activities; leadership; work experience; and other achievements. We encourage students to take the SAT and/or ACT and then determine if submitting these scores provides a more complete picture of their academic abilities.
Does Suffolk require anything in lieu of test scores?
No, we have no supplemental component that takes the place of test scores.
Will I be eligible for scholarships without submitting standardized test scores?
Yes. We consider all applicants for merit scholarships whether or not they submit test scores.
Do I need to submit test scores to be considered for the Honors Program?
While we encourage you to do so, it’s not required to submit test scores to be considered for the Honors Program.
Do I need to submit test scores if I am homeschooled or have narrative/competency-based transcripts?
We do require standardized testing for homeschooled students and those who have narrative or competency-based transcripts. Please contact the Office of Undergraduate Admission if you cannot submit a test score by completing this form or by calling 617-573-8460. For more information regarding requirements for homeschooled students, please review our freshmen admission standards.
Do I need to submit test scores if I have taken the GED or HiSET exam?
Students who have obtained a GED or completed the HiSET exam can apply test-optional.
I’m applying as an international first-year student. Do I still need to submit test scores?
International students are required to submit proof of English language proficiency under our test-flexible policy. Only one exam is needed to complete an application.
Can I send you my test scores myself?
Yes! Suffolk can accept self-reported SAT and ACT scores for admission. To send us your scores they must be either:
- Emailed from your high school counselor or school official
- Scores available on your high school transcript
- PDF files or screen shots of score reports uploaded to the applicant portal
Please note: Be sure to capture your first and last name, as well as test date, on the screen shot or PDF. Uploads that do not display this information will not be accepted.
Who can I talk to if I have more questions?
We’re here to help! Please call us at 617-573-8460, schedule an appointment with one of our team members via our Meet the Staff page, stop by our office on the sixth floor of 73 Tremont Street in Boston, or email us.