High school students looking to apply at Dakota Wesleyan University will now be able to apply without submitting an ACT or SAT score.
With an aim to increase access for all students, DWU has created a test-optional policy for students applying for the fall 2021 term and beyond.
“As always, we are guided by the university’s determination to be at the forefront of building different, innovative and relevant pathways for higher education that increase access and impact,” said Vice President of Admissions and Marketing, Fredel Thomas. “This means re-thinking and, as appropriate, revising long-standing policies and procedures to ensure all students have access to a DWU education.”
The new policy is an opportunity to increase access for capable students who may have been overlooked or excluded in the past. Students who believe their standardized test scores do not accurately represent their academic abilities and chances for success may benefit from applying without submitting test scores. Without the additional standardized test score information, additional emphasis will be placed on the strength of the student’s GPA and high school curriculum.
“Our small size ensures that our applicants are more than just a number. Every applicant is unique, and we believe in the holistic review of applications, with or without test scores,” said Thomas.
DWU remains committed to its personalized approach from the very first interaction with applicants. This new process empowers interested students to showcase their achievements and reinforces that DWU values them for who they are and the promise of whom they might become.
At this time, due to eligibility rules for the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), student-athletes are still required to submit test scores. For more information, visit www.dwu.edu.