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Updated on July 17, 2025
In today’s landscape, applying to no-SAT-required colleges doesn’t mean taking an easier route. Whether it’s strong grades, compelling essays, or a standout extracurricular profile, these colleges that don’t require SAT or ACT offer valuable relief for students whose strengths aren’t reflected in standardized tests. Whether your student is aiming for a close-knit academic community or a vibrant urban campus, this guide explores some best test-optional colleges options for you.
Wesleyan University – Middletown, CT
While the school’s student body is slightly larger than similar schools in New England, Wesleyan maintains a strong sense of academic and personal freedom on campus for students. It is known as a diverse and progressive place to spend four years.
Bowdoin College – Brunswick, ME
Viewed as one the premier liberal arts colleges in the country, Bowdoin is located in a charming and vibrant small-town setting just north of Portland.
Middlebury College – Middlebury, VT (test flexible)
If your calling is the outdoors, Middlebury may be the place for you. The school’s rural setting is coupled with a newly acquired “test flexible” policy. This indicates that students can submit three SAT II subject tests in place of the SAT or ACT.
Colby College – Waterville, ME (test flexible)
In a similar manner to its Maine counterparts at Bowdoin and Bates, Colby’s academic experience is built upon close relationships between students and professors. The school offers specialized writing programs for students in the humanities and has an acceptance rate around 25%.
Hamilton College – Clinton, NY (test flexible)
As the third oldest college in New York, Hamilton combines a long-standing academic reputation with an increasingly diverse student body. An all-male school until 1978, students from 47 different countries are now represented on campus. For those interested in study abroad, Hamilton is affiliated with over 100 programs around the world.
Smith College – Northampton, MA
Located in a bustling and quirky town called Northampton, Smith has been an all-girls school since its inception. With membership to the “Five College Consortium,” students have access to nearby institutions such as Amherst College and the University of Massachusetts.
College of the Holy Cross – Worcester, MA
Holy Cross combines the community feel of a small liberal arts college with an urban environment, larger student body (just under 3,000 total) and Division-1 athletics.
Franklin & Marshall College – Lancaster, PA
Surrounded by the rural farmland of central Pennsylvania, F&M still maintains an urban feel within the city of Lancaster. Total enrollment is just over 2,000. See Dickinson College (below) for a comparable institution in terms of size and campus setting.
University of Rochester – Rochester, NY (test flexible)
As one of the larger institutions on the list, Rochester provides students with options for graduate-level studies on campus as well. The majority of undergrads will enroll in the College of Arts Sciences and Engineering.
Colorado College – Colorado Springs, CO (test flexible)
“CC” has become increasingly popular in recent years – and for good reason. Surrounded by a picaresque mountain setting, the school combines an urban feel with an outdoorsy vibe. The total enrollment is just over 2,000.
Bryn Mawr College – Bryn Mawr, PA
Like Smith, Bryn Mawr is an all-female institution. Located outside of Philadelphia, students can enroll in courses at nearby schools such as Haverford, Swarthmore and Penn. The student body is on the small side with around 1,300 total.
Union College – Schenectady, NY
While a winter getaway to Schenectady may not be on your list, the school has managed to build quite a reputation despite its setting. Similar schools in terms of campus environment include St. Lawrence and Colgate.
Bates College – Lewiston, ME
With a tight-knit and inviting community, the Bates campus is known as a welcoming setting to spend four years and a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Relative to its size, Bates graduated an impressive 19 Fulbright Scholars from the class of 2015.
Brandeis University – Waltham, MA
Located just north of Boston, Brandeis has a similar feel to nearby Babson College, minus the business concentration. The school has a large Jewish population on campus and was founded in 1948.
New York University (NYU) – New York, NY (test flexible)
Set in the heart of Manhattan, NYU’s setting provides students with obvious advantages both on and off campus. Along with the College of Arts and Sciences, NYU has a world renowned film school for both undergraduate and graduate-level studies.
Trinity College (CT) – Hartford, CT (test flexible)
While the city of Hartford has had its struggles, Trinity has worked hard to provide students with opportunities both on-campus and abroad. More than 50% of students will study in a foreign country during their four years, many venturing to Trinity’s satellite campus in Rome.
University of Texas, Austin – Austin, TX
While many think football when it comes to UT, the school has become a highly reputable academic institution over the past ten years. The cost of attending is relatively low ($34,836 out-of-state) and the alumni network is sizable and loyal. To the surprise of many students, Austin is considered one of the more liberal and socially progressive cities in the region.
Sewanee – University of the South – Sewanee, TN
While Sewanee has come on the scene in recent years, it is often overshadowed by larger universities in the south. The tight-knit campus of 1,600 students is juxtaposed with the school’s ownership of more than 12,000 acres of land. The school also maintains a strong affiliation with the Episcopal Church.
Dickinson College – Carlisle, PA
With a strong liberal arts focus, Dickinson’s location and campus environment combines both the New England small college feel with a slight southern touch. The school’s setting makes it easily accessible from New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington DC.
Connecticut College – New London, CT
Founded in 1911, “Conn College” is young compared to its peer institutions. Originally founded as a women’s college, the school’s student body is still around 60% female.
Mount Holyoke College – South Hadley, MA
Like Smith, Holyoke’s student body is entirely female and also a member of the Five College Consortium. While the school’s admissions rates are strong, it still is considered less competitive than its all-female counterparts such as Smith and Wellesley.
Denison University – Granville, OH
While the town of Granville is small (just under 6,000 residents total), Denison has become one of the more reputable liberal arts institutions in the Midwest. Like Connecticut College, Denison is around 60% female.
Even applying to test-optional schools is competitive. Many colleges adopt a holistic review to make admissions decisions. The admissions committee will focus on GPA, course rigor, extracurriculars, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. A compelling personal story or unique achievement can be more influential than a test score. Demonstrating fit with the school’s mission, culture, and values is key.
The essay is your child’s voice—this is where personality shines. Encourage your student to be authentic, reflective, and focused on growth. Check our past webinars and learn more about the colleges essays that will make you stand out.
Strong recommendations from teachers who know your child well can further support their application. Leadership roles, artistic pursuits, and community service should be clearly presented, showcasing impact and dedication over volume.
Selecting the right school isn’t just about test policies. It’s about culture. Compared to your child’s high school setting, does your child thrive in a city or small town? Does your child prefer lectures or seminars? Schools like Bowdoin and Bates offer intimate environments, while places like NYU thrive on urban energy. Visit campuses (virtually or in person) and talk to current students to get a feel for day-to-day life.
Always check each school’s financial aid resources, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Schools like Denison, Colby, and Smith offer generous aid packages, especially for high-achieving students, whether or not test scores are submitted.
Choosing a test-optional college doesn’t mean compromising on quality or prestige. From the snowy villages of Vermont to the energy of New York City, these institutions prove that character, ambition, and intellect matter more than numbers on a page. If your student’s academic journey includes challenges or strengths not captured by standardized tests, schools on this list might just be the key to unlocking their full potential.
1. Does not submitting test scores hurt you?
At most test-optional schools, not submitting standardized test scores won’t penalize you in the admissions process. Admissions officers place greater emphasis on other parts of your application—like your high school GPA, course rigor, extracurriculars, and essays.
However, if your academic record is average or you’re applying to highly selective schools, not submitting scores could make it harder to stand out in a competitive applicant pool. In these cases, strong SAT or ACT scores can boost your profile and make you more competitive.
2. What’s the difference between test-optional and test blind?
Test-optional schools allow applicants to decide whether to submit standardized test scores (like the SAT or ACT). If you submit them, they’ll be considered; if not, your application is still reviewed holistically.
Test-blind schools, on the other hand, do not consider test scores at all, even if you submit them. Your admissions process is based solely on non-test factors, such as your high school performance, essays, and recommendation letters.
3. Should I submit my test scores if they are optional?
Here are some circumstances you might consider submitting your test scores:
