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Finlandia introduces test-optional admissions policy

Finlandia University is excited to join other progressive universities by adopting a test-optional admissions policy. As a result, students can opt-out of providing standardized test scores such as the SAT/ACT as part of their admissions decision. Instead, students will be evaluated on high school or college grade point average and rigor of previous coursework.

“This is part of Finlandia’s continued efforts to make higher education accessible to all who wish to pursue a degree,” said Dean of Students Erin Barnett.

Students may still choose to submit an SAT/ACT score as part of their application process, should they feel the standardized test scores provide a more holistic view of their academic ability. Students who choose to apply test-optional cannot later submit test scores for consideration of admission.

Benefits of Test-Optional Admissions

Barnett stated that research shows that previous academic performance is the best indicator of college readiness. Research also shows that test-optional policies provide opportunities for institutions to build a more diverse student body, as standardized tests often fail to demonstrate the academic capabilities of some populations of students, especially minority and low-income students.

Regarding scholarships, students who choose to apply test-optional will be considered for merit scholarships the same as those who apply with test scores.

Test-Optional Exceptions

There are two notable exceptions for students who are unable to apply the test optional option:

Homeschooled Students: Applicants who are home-schooled are required to submit official ACT or SAT scores.

International Students: International applicants who are non-native English speakers must submit an acceptable score on either the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) to be admitted into a degree program. If an international student has spent the majority of the most recent four years of school in a setting where English is the primary language of instruction in all academic subjects (excluding foreign language and ESL/ELL courses), they are exempt from the TOEFL/IELTS requirement.

Students who are interested in applying can do so at finlandia.edu/admissions. If you have questions, please contact admissions at admissions@finlandia.edu or 906-487-7263.

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