MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — West Virginia University (WVU) has become the first public higher education institution in the Mountain State to permanently implement a test-optional admissions policy, following approval from the WVU Board of Governors.
George Zimmerman, Assistant Vice President for Enrollment Management, stated that “WVU is a leader in providing students with new choices when it comes to college, and with this permanent test-optional move, it joins the growing number of institutions nationwide that are taking this approach to college admissions.”
FairTest, the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, reports that over 1,800 institutions across the country have adopted test-optional or test-free policies.
Zimmerman explained that “Students have embraced test-optional admissions processes as part of their college searches since the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we have an obligation to remove any barriers that may deter those interested in higher education.”
Initially adopted as a temporary measure ahead of the fall 2020 semester, the WVU test-optional admissions policy was extended three times to address the ongoing effects of the pandemic and alleviate stress for students during the college application process. The final extension lasts through spring 2024, after which the permanent policy will be implemented.
Zimmerman highlighted the benefits of offering students the choice of including standardized test scores in their college applications, stating that it has proven effective in helping them feel more in control of the process.
WVU will continue to provide scholarships for both test-optional applicants and those submitting test scores. However, the ACT or SAT will remain requirements for the PROMISE Scholarship. Additionally, specific programs may have testing requirements, and test scores may be necessary for course placement.
All applicants, regardless of their test reporting status, will be automatically evaluated for the Center for Learning, Advising, and Student Success. This center is designed to support students who are undecided in their majors, entering pre-professional disciplines, or unable to meet selective program requirements at the time of their admissions.