Test Score Policy
Test "Optional" and "Flexible" through Fall 2022
To accommodate ongoing test access issues due to COVID-19, and continue to comply with State of Arkansas' placement and reporting requirements, the University of Arkansas will continue to implement "test optional" and "test flexible" alternatives for admission and placement purposes through Fall 2022.
Please note, applicants must submit ACT or SAT test scores by February 1, 2022, to be considered for most merit-based scholarships and fellowships. Admitted students must have ACT, SAT, or Next Generation Accuplacer scores on file by May 1, 2022, for placement and enrollment purposes during orientation. See Admission Requirements for full details regarding admission without test scores.
ACT or SAT
Arkansas is considered an "ACT state," and the majority of our applicants submit ACT scores. However, we do not have a preference between the ACT and SAT. In fact, we often recommend that students attempt each test at least once and take either the ACT or SAT multiple times. The Office of Admissions does not require that students submit the essay component of either test.
Generally, throughout the admissions and scholarship process, all scores are expressed as ACT or as an ACT equivalent. See our ACT/SAT concordance chart for additional information.
2021 Test Dates
ACT on Campus (Residual)
Check the Testing Services site for dates.
Next Generation Accuplacer
Various - check the Testing Services Accuplacer page. Online and in-person options available.
Submitting Your Test Scores
Submit your scores using our ACT code (0144) or SAT code (6866). Send your test scores directly from ACT or SAT. In some cases, we will also accept test scores from your high school transcript, paper score reports, or, as a last resort, screen prints of your online score report as long as your name appears in the image.
Superscoring
The University of Arkansas superscores the ACT and SAT for admission, scholarship consideration, and New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award purposes. Superscoring allows us to combine a student's highest ACT or SAT section (or subtest) scores, regardless of test date. The super composite ACT score is calculated as the average of the best ACT English, Reading, Math, and Science subject scores. Students are encouraged to send us their ACT test scores using the Superscore reporting option.
Please note, superscores are not considered for fellowship eligibility or admission to the Honors College.
ACT on Campus
University of Arkansas applicants can also take the ACT on Campus exam. This is a residual ACT given on the U of A campus. Your score can only be used at the U of A and cannot be sent to other institutions.
Next-Generation Accuplacer Test
Admitted students who have been assessed developmental course placement or Fall 2021 applicants who have yet had the opportunity to take the ACT or SAT test have the option to take the Next-Generation Accuplacer through Testing Services either in-person or online.