More than 13 years after becoming the first STEM university to adopt a test-optional policy, WPI is now piloting a new policy that eliminates SAT and ACT scores entirely from its admission process. The change, which takes effect beginning with applicants who will apply for entrance to WPI for fall of 2022, supports WPI's mission of expanding access to a high-quality STEM education to all students. 

The eight-year test-blind pilot program builds upon WPI’s 2007 adoption of a test-optional policy, one of many efforts to eliminate inequities in its admissions process. Test scores can be a self-limiting factor for some students, discouraging otherwise strong and capable students from applying to top universities with high score profiles. Scores can also be gamed through expensive test preparation courses and tutoring that provide an unfair advantage to wealthier students. The new pilot program makes SAT and ACT scores irrelevant, eliminating these inequities and barriers to access.

 

What does "Test Blind" mean?

Test Blind refers to a policy where the Admissions review process would not look at standardized testing (SAT or ACT) even if provided by the applicant.

How is Test Blind different from Test optional?

Test optional allows students the choice of whether to submit standardized test scores for consideration in the admissions process. A test blind policy eliminates the use of test scores in the admissions evaluation process.

What about other tests like Advanced Placement, TOEFL and IELTS?

Advanced Placement scores are still used by WPI to award credit to enrolling students. TOEFL and IELTS will still be utilized by students for whom English is not their first language.