Bryn Mawr accepts both SAT and ACT standardized test scores. For applicants who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and submitting test scores, the essay section is optional. Bryn Mawr is interested in your best achievement, so we consider the highest critical reading and math 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 before matriculation. While 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 or 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 or permanent residents) must submit official scores from the SAT or ACT, including the writing section. 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.
Official scores should be sent from testing agencies such as the College Board (Bryn Mawr code: 2049) or the ACT (Bryn Mawr code: 3526).
In exceptional circumstances, standardized tests may not be offered in a particular country or region. Please contact the Admissions Office directly to discuss alternatives.
