Yes, the University of Houston is now test optional for the ACT.
Now let’s take a closer look
Yes, the University of Houston is now test optional for the ACT. This means that applicants have the choice of whether or not they submit their ACT scores as part of their application. This decision was made in recognition of the challenges faced by students during the COVID-19 pandemic, as test availability and preparation opportunities were significantly disrupted. The university aims to provide a fair and equitable admissions process that considers the various circumstances that applicants may have encountered.
As an expert in college admissions, I believe that this shift to test optional admissions at the University of Houston is a step in the right direction. It acknowledges that standardized tests may not be the sole determinants of a student’s academic potential and allows applicants to showcase their strengths in other areas. This change also aligns with the growing trend among universities to move away from heavy reliance on test scores.
A quote from Robert J. Sternberg, a prominent psychologist, supports the idea that test scores may not be the best indicator of a student’s capabilities: “ACT scores often correlate with, but do not necessarily cause, real-world achievement.” This highlights the fact that test scores are just one piece of the puzzle and should not overshadow other important aspects of an applicant’s profile.
Interesting facts about the University of Houston’s test optional policy:
- The test optional policy applies to both domestic and international students.
- Applicants who choose not to submit their ACT scores will not be penalized during the admissions evaluation process.
- The university encourages applicants who believe that their ACT scores accurately reflect their abilities to still submit them.
- The decision to go test optional aligns with the university’s commitment to diversity, access, and inclusion in higher education.
Here is a table summarizing the main points:
| University of Houston ACT Test Optional Policy |
|---|
| Admissions Consideration |
| Who Does It Apply to? |
| Penalty for Not Submitting Scores |
| Encouragement to Submit Scores |
| Alignment with University Values |
In conclusion, the University of Houston’s test optional policy for the ACT provides applicants with the flexibility to choose whether or not to submit their scores. This decision acknowledges the challenges faced by students during the pandemic and aligns with the university’s commitment to a fair and holistic admissions process. Test scores, while important, are not the sole determinants of an applicant’s potential, and this policy allows students to showcase their strengths in other areas.
Video related “Is the University of Houston ACT test optional?”
The organization FairTest believes that standardized testing is being misused and overused, leading to inequality in college admissions. Billions of dollars are spent on SAT tutors and test preparation, which negatively impacts low-income students. Holistic approaches, including student coursework and other talents, are seen as a more equitable way to determine college admission eligibility.
See more responses
If applying without a test score: All applicants applying without a test score must submit a short admissions essay and extracurricular activities—both can be submitted through Common App or ApplyTexas.
You do not have to to submit ACT scores with your application as University of Houston is test optional. The policy from the school on ACT scores is "considered but not required".
UH System universities – the University of Houston, University of Houston-Downtown, University of Houston-Clear Lake and University of Houston-Victoria – last spring adopted test-optional admissions for summer and fall 2020. The latest decision extends that in recognition that not all prospective students will be able to take an ACT or SAT.
The University of Houston is extending its standardized test-optional policy for applicants entering school in Fall 2024. The policy was originally put in place during the pandemic after officials were forced to cancel testing dates and close testing sites for the SAT and ACT.
Both the SAT and ACT have an optional essay section. University of Houston considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don’t need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you’re applying to may require it.
However, due to the ongoing effects of COVID-19, the University of Houston has introduced test optional admission— students now have the choice to apply with or without these test scores.
The University of Houston will extend its test-optional admissions policy to applicants entering school in fall 2024 as administrators consider making the change permanent.
The UH System, which will be test optional through 2022, will continue to automatically admit Texas students who graduate in top of their Texas high school class.
You will most likely be intrigued
Is University of Houston test optional for 2023?
We’ve Gone Test Optional
Applicants have the option to apply for admission with or without a test score for the following academic terms: spring 2023, summer 2023, and fall 2023.
Does the University of Houston require ACT?
You must take either the SAT or ACT to submit an application to University of Houston. More importantly, you need to do well to have a strong application.
Is UH test optional for 2024?
Answer: The University of Houston is extending its standardized test-optional policy for applicants entering school in Fall 2024. The policy was originally put in place during the pandemic after officials were forced to cancel testing dates and close testing sites for the SAT and ACT.
Can I get into UH with a 3.0 GPA?
University of Houston accepts a GPA of 3.0 (scale of 4.0) or equivalent in high school.
Does University of Houston accept SAT scores?
Answer will be: University of Houston is a test optional school meaning do not have to submit SAT scores with your application. The position on SAT scores from the college is "considered but not required". View other colleges which accept students in the 1240 SAT score range. The table below outlines your predicted admission chances based on SAT score alone.
What is a good ACT score for University of Houston?
At a minimum, you should aim for a 23 and score in the score in the top 32 percent nationally. The lowest ACT score likely to be admitted is a 20. 12 percent of applicants submit ACT scores to University of Houston. You do not have to to submit ACT scores with your application as University of Houston is test optional.
What is test optional admission?
Typically, when applying to college, freshman students would be required to submit SAT and/or ACT scores with their application. These scores would usually be taken into account as colleges determine admission decisions.
Does University of Houston have an optional essay section?
The reply will be: Both the SAT and ACT have an optional essay section. University of Houston considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don’t need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you’re applying to may require it.
Can I apply for University of Houston without a test score?
As a response to this: Applicants have the option to apply for admission with or without a test score for the following academic terms: summer 2023, and fall 2023. Applicants are not disadvantaged by applying without a test score. Complete the University of Houston application for admission using either the ApplyTexas Application or The Common Application.
What is a good ACT score for University of Houston?
At a minimum, you should aim for a 23 and score in the score in the top 32 percent nationally. The lowest ACT score likely to be admitted is a 20. 12 percent of applicants submit ACT scores to University of Houston. You do not have to to submit ACT scores with your application as University of Houston is test optional.
What is test optional admission?
The answer is: Typically, when applying to college, freshman students would be required to submit SAT and/or ACT scores with their application. These scores would usually be taken into account as colleges determine admission decisions.
Should SAT & ACT scores be optional?
Response to this: Even before the pandemic, there were discussions at some universities to make the SAT or ACT score optional. Some school leaders have argued that the tests are not predictive of student performance in college and that they are an additional barrier to enrollment for low-income students. Credit:May-Ying Lam for The Texas Tribune