5 US Universities That Don't Require the SAT (2027)

You can study at a US university without taking the SAT. These five ApplyBoard partner universities do not require SAT or ACT scores from most international undergraduate applicants.

Many US universities now use test-optional admissions, which means SAT and ACT scores are not required. This guide explains what test-optional means, introduces five universities you can apply to through ApplyBoard, and lists what you will still need to apply.

What Does "Test-Optional" Mean?

At a test-optional university, you can choose whether or not to send SAT or ACT scores. If you do not send scores, your application is judged on your grades, coursework, and other documents. If you have strong scores, you can still send them, and they may help your application or scholarship chances.

5 US Universities on ApplyBoard Where the SAT Is Not Required

1. Governors State University

Governors State University is a public university in University Park, Illinois, about 45 minutes south of downtown Chicago. International applicants do not need SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT scores. The university offers 85 degree programs across business, technology, health, and the arts, with Fall and Spring intakes. When you apply through ApplyBoard, the application fee is waived. Read the Governors State University guide.

2. Hood College

Hood College is in Frederick, Maryland, close to Washington, D.C., and Baltimore. Most programs do not require SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT scores, and the college offers multiple intakes each year. There is no application fee when you apply through ApplyBoard. Read the Hood College guide.

3. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University is a private university in Central Florida, with students from more than 100 countries. Undergraduate applicants do not need to submit SAT or ACT scores. The minimum high school GPA is 2.0, and there is no application fee for undergraduate programs. Saint Leo also does not require an I-20 deposit. Read the Saint Leo University guide.

4. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) is a private university founded in 1932, with a 300-acre residential campus in Manchester, New Hampshire, about 50 miles from Boston. SNHU does not require test scores for admission to its campus or online programs. Through ApplyBoard, international students can apply to 80+ on-campus bachelor's and master's programs, with August and January intakes. You will still need an English test score, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Read the Southern New Hampshire University guide.

5. University of New Haven

The University of New Haven is a private university in West Haven, Connecticut, about 75 miles from New York City. It does not require SAT or ACT scores for any academic program. If you send scores, the university only uses them if they help your admission or scholarship decision. Students from non-English-speaking countries must submit an English proficiency score; TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, or ACT are all accepted, so an English test can be used instead of the SAT. See the university's test-optional policy or read the University of New Haven guide.

What You Still Need to Apply

• High school transcripts: Your grades are the most important part of a test-optional application.
• English language test: Most international students need IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo scores, unless they qualify for a waiver.
• Passport: A valid passport for your application and student visa.
• Proof of funds: Evidence that you can pay for tuition and living costs, which your university needs to issue your Form I-20.
• Other documents: Some programs ask for a personal statement, letters of recommendation, or a credential evaluation.

Should You Still Send SAT Scores?

• Send scores if they are strong and the university accepts them. They can support your application and, at some universities, your scholarship chances.
• Skip the SAT if your scores do not reflect your ability, or if you cannot easily access a test centre. Focus on strong grades and a complete application instead.

Looking Beyond the US?

Most universities in other popular study destinations do not use the SAT at all. Universities in Canada, the UK, Ireland, and Australia usually focus on your high school grades and the right prerequisite courses. Learn how Canadian universities assess applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Not having SAT scores does not have to stop you from studying in the United States. With strong grades, an English test score, and a well-prepared application, you can apply to universities that welcome students without the SAT. Explore your options on ApplyBoard today.