SAT/ACT Optional

Merrimack College has chosen to establish an SAT/ACT optional application process. After considering several factors, Merrimack found that making score submission optional for admission consideration is beneficial for both student and college.

Why is Merrimack SAT/ACT optional?

Merrimack College has always considered all applicants equally, primarily placing importance on consistent academic performance, level of classes taken (i.e. college prep, advanced placement, etc.), high school transcript, and extracurricular participation. Committing to an SAT/ACT optional program further supports this system.

Optional score submission also allows for a more diverse applicant pool, which in turn can create a richer learning experience for students:
Research shows high school transcript to be more predictive than SAT’s: In researching the Class of 2010, Susan Pariseau, Ph.D., Professor of Management at Merrimack College, found that the student’s first-year college performance was most closely related to their academic performance in high school. This suggests that the addition of SAT scores added little predictive value to how the student would perform once in college.

Additional Q&A

Q: What does SAT Optional really mean when applying to Merrimack?
A: Students who choose not to submit SAT test scores will have their application reviewed in the same fashion as a student who did submit scores. Academic standards will remain the same and Merrimack will select the most well-rounded students by way of academic and extracurricular accomplishments.

However, the rules are a little bit different when it comes to scholarships. SAT or ACT scores are required if you want to be considered for an institutional scholarship. If you do choose to submit your scores for an institutional scholarship - but not as part of your admissions application, rest assured that we will not review your SAT or ACT scores when considering your application for admission.

Q: Will this change the way Merrimack applicants are considered for admission?
A: When evaluating a potential student’s application, Merrimack always considers the student’s overall academic and non-academic performance first and foremost. A student is never solely judged on the results of one test. The option of not submitting an SAT score allows the student to choose whether or not their SAT score will be part of their application. Ultimately, Merrimack admission will be and always has been based on a variety of factors and the optional program makes fo ran even starting point.

Q: Does this program mean Merrimack will be lowering its academic standards?
A: No. Merrimack’s selective nature will remain intact. Applicants will still be considered on a number of levels including academic success, participation in extracurricular activities and potential leadership qualities.