Standardized Testing Policy

Bryn Mawr recognizes that standardized testing may not be the best indicator of student success in college, so we give students the option to submit their testing scores as part of their application. Standardized testing is not required for U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Bryn Mawr accepts both SAT and ACT standardized test scores. Bryn Mawr is interested in your best achievement, so we consider the highest section scores submitted, irrespective of the test date. 

Test-Optional Policy for U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents

Bryn Mawr College’s Office of Admissions conducts a holistic review of our applicants. Recognizing the individuality of all prospective students, we acknowledge that standardized test scores may not fully reflect academic preparedness or potential. Therefore, students in this category may take advantage of the College’s test-optional policy by not providing SAT or ACT scores with their application for admission.

If you have opted to take the ACT or SAT, we request that you submit the test scores by June 1 if you are admitted and enroll. Test scores are not reviewed by the Office of Admissions and will not affect the strength of your application. They are used for academic advising and placement.

International Students (Non-U.S. Citizens and Non-Permanent Residents)

International curricula and grading scales vary widely and in some cases do not provide enough information for the Office of Admissions to adequately assess a student's admissibility. For this reason, we require international students to submit scores from either the SAT or ACT. These scores provide an additional reference point when we are reviewing an application; however, they are only one factor. We also carefully consider a student's transcript, teacher recommendations, essays, external exam results, and personal achievements.

International students (non-US citizens and non-permanent residents) must submit official scores from the SAT or ACT. IB, AP, and A-level scores cannot be substituted for SAT or ACT scores. International students are also required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. The minimum score required for consideration is 100 on the TOEFL or 7 on the IELTS. Other test results cannot replace the TOEFL or IELTS without special permission from the College. Note: Students whose first language is English or whose primary language of instruction has been English during their four years of high school may have the TOEFL or IELTS requirement waived.

Self-Reporting Scores

The Admissions Office prefers official scores be sent from testing agencies such as the College Board (Bryn Mawr code: 2049) or the ACT (Bryn Mawr code: 3526). If a student is not able to submit official scores, the Office of Admissions will accept self-reported exam scores (except TOEFL, IELTS and IB) for all applicants. All admitted students will be required to submit an official copy of their exam scores if they enroll. Early Decision students must submit scores by March 1. Regular Decision students must submit scores by June 1.

In exceptional circumstances, standardized tests may not be offered in a particular country or region. Please contact the Admissions Office directly to discuss alternatives.