Test Optional: �鶹��ýPorn, Greater Cincinnati Region

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

�鶹��ýPorn 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, �鶹��ýPorn continues investing in high-impact initiatives that address affordability, including making education more accessible through its 3 states, 1 rate tuition model. �鶹��ýPorn also offers multiple ways to ease the financial burden of a college education. Visit the webpage for our Office of Student Financial Assistance to learn more.

We changed our admissions standards to be more equitable while aligning institutional aid to compliment. However, �鶹��ýPorn 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 �鶹��ýPorn'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 �鶹��ýPorn 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 �鶹��ýPornWrite (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.
- Merit Scholarship Opportunities

What is my next step to join �鶹��ýPorn?

Student interested in learning more about �鶹��ýPorn are invited to schedule a visit at nku.edu/visit. Students interested in starting their academic journey at �鶹��ýPorn can apply at nku.edu/apply.