Frequently Asked Questions about NMU's Test-Blind Policy

The change was prompted in part by barriers to administering standardized tests during the coronavirus pandemic. It is also supported by statistical evidence from national sources and NMU analyses that high school grade-point average, not SAT/ACT scores, is the most reliable gauge of how students will perform in college. 

Test-blind means that applicants are not required to submit test scores and we will not review standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for general admission for freshman applicants for these terms:  winter 2021, summer 2021, fall 2021. This is different than a "test-optional" policy adopted by institutions where you can choose whether you would like your test score considered in the admission review.

The test-blind policy could become permanent after that point, pending approval by the NMU Academic Senate. 

No. National higher educational studies, as well as our own analysis, shows that a student’s high school GPA is a much better indicator of future academic success than performance on a standardized test.  Our GPA criteria is based on years of data following students’ success and understanding which students may need additional support to achieve success.

No.

Freshman applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of 2.25 or higher will be admitted to NMU. For students whose GPA is below 2.25, NMU will do a more thorough review of their courses and grades, the academic program selected and other information to determine whether to admit them conditionally, with a requirement that they participate in academic success programming. 

Those appealing a decision may ask us to consider test scores as one of a number of factors, along with a personal statement, letters of recommendation and other information the applicant feels is relevant to their potential for academic success at NMU.

If you send in your test scores, we won't review them for general admission. We'll add them to your file, and note their receipt on your application checklist in case they're needed in the future. If you are appealing a decision and would like us to consider your test scores among other factors, we will do so. We will also review them for scholarship consideration.

We'll consider the highest GPA listed on your high school transcript and use that for both general admission and merit scholarships.

For students whose GPA is below 2.25, NMU will do a more thorough review of their courses and grades, the academic program selected and other information to determine whether to admit them conditionally, with a requirement that they participate in academic success programming. 

Those appealing a decision may ask us to consider test scores as one of a number of factors, including an updated transcript showing improvement, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and other information the applicant feels is relevant to their potential for academic success at NMU.  We will look at many factors, including academic preparation, academic performance, motivation, resilience and resourcefulness. This helps us get to know your circumstances and determine your likely ability to succeed.  We may request additional materials to complete the review. Be sure to submit these as soon as possible, so we can complete the review and give you an admission decision.

Yes. Our new test-blind policy will begin for students applying to NMU for the fall of 2021.  For Fall 2020, if an applicant was unable to take the SAT or ACT due to the pandemic, we will work with students on a case-by-case basis.  NMU also offers certificate and associate degrees where test scores are not used in the admissions process.

No. You will need to send your final official high school transcript, with proof of graduation, before you enroll/attend classes.

You won't need to submit an SAT or ACT score for admission. You will need to submit information documenting English language proficiency, which could include official test scores, such as TOEFL, IELTS, ACT, SAT, etc.

No. You won't need to submit an ACT or SAT score.

No. If you're a homeschooled student, or if you have a passing GED score or other high school equivalency test score, we'll use that information for the admission decision.

For those entering in fall 2021, winter 2022, or summer 2022, we will offer some freshman scholarships based on high school GPA only, as well as scholarships that use both  GPA and test scores as factors.

Yes, but there will be some scholarships awarded based on high school GPA only. 

For *2021-22, we will be transitioning from awarding all merit scholarships based on high school GPA and test scores, to offering some limited scholarships based solely on GPA.   At the time of admission, we will award scholarships based on the information we have received, but we will always take new information into consideration after admission and prior to enrollment.  This includes updated transcripts and test scores.  It is our intent to transition further in following years.  *Applicants for fall 2021, winter 2022, summer 2022.

Yes. The NCAA requires you to take the SAT or ACT to determine initial eligibility for participation in a Division I or II sport (the divisions offered at NMU).  When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 so your scores are sent directly to the Eligibility Center from the testing agency.   The NCAA is adapting on an on-going basis to the COVID-19 pandemic and there may be exceptions under NCAA rules for standardized test requirements.