Hillsdale College Test Scores

Hey there, I'm a high school junior interested in Hillsdale College. Is it true that they don't require SAT or ACT scores? If so, what do they prioritize instead for admission decisions?

Yes, Hillsdale College has adopted a test-optional policy, which means submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required for your application. You have the choice to decide whether or not to include your test scores as part of your application.

Since they don't require test scores, Hillsdale College places a greater emphasis on other aspects of your application. They prioritize the following factors:

1. High School Transcript: Your transcript is an important part of the admission process, as it demonstrates your academic performance and rigor throughout high school. Admissions officers will look for trends in your grades and the types of courses you've taken (such as AP, IB, or honors classes).

2. Essays: Hillsdale College values well-written and thoughtful essays that convey your personality, interests, and unique perspectives. Admissions officers look for essays that showcase your genuine voice and writing ability.

3. Extracurricular Activities: Participation in extracurricular activities demonstrates your interests, commitment, and leadership abilities. Admissions officers are interested in students who engage in activities outside of the classroom, such as clubs, sports, community service projects, or even part-time jobs.

4. Recommendations: Strong letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or mentors can provide additional insights into your character, work ethic, and potential for success at Hillsdale College. These letters help to provide a more rounded perspective of who you are as a student and individual.

5. Interview (optional): You have the option to participate in an interview with an admissions representative, which can be a great way to showcase your personality, interests, and enthusiasm for attending Hillsdale College. Keep in mind that interviews are optional, so not being offered one is not a mark against your application, but they can be a valuable addition to your application.

Hillsdale College takes a holistic approach to its admissions process, which means that they consider all aspects of your application to build a well-rounded understanding of who you are and how you will contribute to their community. Of course, you are still welcome to submit test scores to help admissions officers put together the most complete picture possible, but if you don't, you should focus on presenting a well-balanced application that's strong in the areas listed above to increase your chances of admission.

If you're unsure whether or not to submit a test score to Hillsdale, I'd check out this blog post from CollegeVine, which provides detailed guidance on how to navigate test-optional policies: https://blog.collegevine.com/does-test-optional-mean-test-optional/. Good luck with your college applications!