Education | University of Global Studies Drops SAT/ACT Requirement for 2027
Senior Technology Correspondent · AI, startups & MeitY policy
Quick summary
The University of Global Studies has made its admissions policy permanently test-optional, meaning students won't need SAT or ACT scores starting with the 2027 cycle. This is big news for future undergraduate applicants looking for a more holistic review process.
Big news for students dreaming of applying to the University of Global Studies (UGS). The university announced on , that it will no longer require SAT or ACT scores from undergraduate applicants. This new rule is permanent.
What does this mean? From the admissions cycle onwards, you won't need to take the SAT or ACT exams to apply to UGS. This makes the university 'test-optional'.
A New Path to Admissions
The University of Global Studies confirmed this change reinforces its focus on what it calls 'holistic review'. This means they will look at your whole application, not just one exam score. They consider your grades, essays, recommendation letters, extracurricular activities, and other parts of your profile. It's about seeing you as a complete student, not just a number.
This move also aims to boost diversity among students. By removing the SAT and ACT requirement, UGS hopes to make applying easier for a wider range of students, regardless of their background or access to test preparation resources.
This decision comes as many universities are thinking differently about how they select students. There's a growing trend to look beyond single exam scores. For instance, the National Higher Education Council (NHEC), which makes important rules for public universities, recently asked colleges to add more spots for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) courses. This shows a broader shift towards meeting specific skill needs and making sure students are well-rounded.
Even with more flexible rules at some places, competition remains high. Recent data from application platforms shows more students are applying early to top colleges for . So, while UGS is changing its rules, students still need to put their best foot forward in all other parts of their application.
What 'Test-Optional' Means for You
If you're applying to UGS for or later, you do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. This is a big relief for many who stress about these exams.
However, if you have good scores and want to submit them, you still can. The university will consider them as part of your overall application. But it's no longer a must-have.
This means your academic performance in school, your unique experiences, and your personal story in essays will matter even more. Spend time making those parts of your application strong.
The UGS decision highlights a bigger discussion in education. Many believe that entrance exams don't always show a student's true potential. Looking at a student's entire journey might offer a fairer chance.
- The University of Global Studies made its admissions policy permanently test-optional on .
- Undergraduate applicants for the cycle and beyond will not need SAT or ACT scores.
- The university aims to promote diversity and use a 'holistic review' of applicants.
- Students should focus on strengthening other parts of their application like grades and essays.
People also ask
- Is this a temporary change?
- No — the University of Global Studies confirms this is a permanent policy.
- Will my SAT/ACT scores still be considered if I submit them?
- Yes — if submitted, your SAT/ACT scores will still be included in the university's comprehensive application review process.
- What is 'holistic review'?
- Universities review your full profile: grades, essays, activities, and recommendations, not just test scores.
- So what now for other universities?
- Other institutions haven't yet announced similar permanent policy shifts. Review each college's specific rules for the cycle.