Elmhurst University has decided to remove the standardized test score requirement for students applying to attend in the fall of 2021, giving prospective Elmhurst students a choice about whether to submit the scores as part of their admission application.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, high school juniors and seniors have had limited opportunities this past spring to take or retake the ACT or SAT. Testing dates have been canceled, testing venues have been cut or changed, and the move to online testing has not worked well for disadvantaged students.

The test-optional program at Elmhurst is considered a pilot for the 2020-21 application year, and will be reassessed for future years. The program will empower students to build what they consider to be their strongest application.

“We want students to know that we understand the challenges and uncertainty they’ve faced as a result of the pandemic, and that we want to make every effort to preserve their health and well-being while also providing an accessible, holistic application process,” said Vice President for Admission Timothy Ricordati.

While all applicants will have the option to be considered for admission without submitting standardized test scores, Elmhurst will continue to receive and review scores for students who choose to submit them. Applicants who choose not to submit test scores will be required to submit an essay.

Test scores are not required for applicants to be considered for merit-based grants and scholarships.

To coincide with changes to the admission process, Elmhurst has introduced a streamlined online application for all of its audiences. The Elmhurst University admission application for 2021-22 is available at elmhurst.edu/apply.