Test Optional: Northern Kentucky University, Greater Cincinnati Region

NKU will begin implementing a simplified admissions process that reduces barriers to higher education for diverse learners.

NKU has adopted a test-optional policy and will no longer require standardized test scores, such as ACT or SAT, for freshmen applicants with a 2.75 unweighted high school GPA or higher.

Along with eliminating the ACT /SAT requirement, NKU continues investing in high-impact initiatives that address affordability, including making education more accessible thruogh its 3 states, 1 rate tuition model. NKU offers merit- and need-based support for first-year students, and in-state scholarships are also automatically awarded to those who meet criteria.

We changed our admissions standards to be more equitable while aligning institutional aid to compliment. However, NKU is unique because of the way we're uplifting students through enhanced academic support including our Pathfinder Program and complimentary Student Success plans, which offer comprehensive resources for helping students have a successful academic journey and timely graduation.

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Test Optional FAQs

What is NKU's test optional policy?

Freshmen applicants with a 2.75 and greater unweighted high school GPA will be offered admission regardless of ACT/SAT scores.
Freshmen applicants with a 2.5-2.749 unweighted high school GPA are not required to submit ACT/SAT scores. However, submitting test scores may allow for direct placement into their major if their test scores reveal zero or one overall deficieny. If the applicant chooses not to submit test scores at all, or if their scores reveal 2 or greater deficiencies, they will be admitted into our Pathfinders Program.
Freshmen applicants with a 2.0-2.49 unweighted high school GPA are not required to submit ACT/SAT scores and will be admitted into our Pathfinders Program.
Freshmen applicants must have a 2.0 unweighted high school GPA to be considered for admission.

What if an applicant has already sent Northern Kentucky University test scores or they are on the high school transcript?

The scores will not factor into the admission decision for applicants with a 2.75 unweighted high school GPA and greater. However, for applicants with a 2.5-2.749 unweighted high school GPA, scores will be used to determine whether the applicant is eligible for direct placement into their major. Additionally, test scores will be stored in the student’s record to be used for course placement.

If a student is admitted, how will they be placed in courses without test scores?

We encourage applicants to submit all ACT/SAT scores available. Any student admitted without ACT/SAT scores will be required to take the NKUWrite (English/Reading) and ALEKS (mathematics) or another exam approved by the Council on Postsecondary Education for determining college readiness. Those tests will be used to determine placement.

Are there specific academic programs that will require ACT/SAT scores?

Yes, admission into the Pre-Nursing program will require ACT/SAT scores.

How will academic scholarships be awarded with test optional admissions?

Most academic first-time freshmen scholarships are available for students regardless of ACT/SAT scores.
- Kentucky Resident Scholarships
- Out of State Resident Scholarships (including International)

What is my next step to join Northern Kentucky University?

Student interested in learning more about Northern Kentucky University are invited to schedule a visit at nku.edu/visit. Students interested in starting their academic journey at NKU can apply at nku.edu/apply.

This admission requirement change also includes new transfer students who apply to the University with fewer than 24 college credit hours earned.

Curious about the NKU Experience?

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So much more than just a school in Kentucky

Test Optional