North Jersey College Makes SAT Scores Optional For Admission

WAYNE, NJ — William Paterson University will not require incoming freshman to submit standardized test scores as a requirement for admission, the university announced Thursday.

Beginning with the 2019-20 academic year, the majority of student applicants will not be required to submit SAT or ACT scores.

"Research has demonstrated that high school grade point average is three times as powerful a predictor of academic success as the SAT," said Reginald Ross, vice president for enrollment management. "Our revised protocol will take a holistic approach that focuses primarily on high school performance and the rigor of a student’s high school academic coursework."

While test scores are no longer required, students may submit other documents that highlight their talents, interests, and achievements when applying to William Paterson. These including letters of recommendations from teachers, a personal interest statement, and a resume that outlines a student's community service and leadership roles in their community.

Some applicants will still have to supply test scores, including: Those admission to applicants of the university's nursing and communication disorders degree programs, students being considered for merit-based scholarships, or those applying to the school's Honors College.

According to William Paterson, about 34 percent of the nation's leading colleges and universities that implemented similar policies.

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com

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