RINDGE, N.H. ― Franklin Pierce University is joining a growing list of schools that no longer require most applicants to submit standardized test scores.
Officials at the private university in Rindge say the move reflects its commitment to making higher education more accessible. They say high school classroom performance is a better predictor than tests such as the SAT or ACT, and that the new policy may lead to greater diversity because focusing on test scores deters otherwise qualified minority and low-income students from applying.
“At Franklin Pierce University, we are more concerned with who you are as a person,” said Franklin Pierce President Andrew Card. “We believe in making higher education accessible to any student who has the desire to work hard and learn. By becoming test-optional, Franklin Pierce has removed a barrier to education that is not indicative of college success.”
Those applying to Franklin Pierce will have the option to include test scores as part of their applications. Student-athletes will still be required to submit scores to the NCAA, and scores also will be required for students applying to a special degree program in physical therapy.
According to the National Center for Fair and Open Testing, more than 850 accredited bachelor degree granting schools do not require all or many applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores.
