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Test Score Policy

The University of Arkansas Office of Admissions uses standardized test scores to make admission decisions for incoming students. ACT and SAT scores also play a role in decisions relating to scholarship awards, academic fellowship offers, eligibility for the New Arkansan Non-Resident Tuition Award, and admission to the Honors College. Test scores are also used for developmental course assessment and course placement, and for state reporting purposes.

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

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.  Beginning in September 2020, 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.