Test Optional

Effective with the 2027 undergraduate admission cycle, UIC has amended its Test-Optional policy. As part of our holistic review process, ACT and SAT scores submitted by applicants will be reviewed and considered only when they positively contribute to a student's application.

If you would like to provide test scores, you may submit them in one of the following ways:

  • Upload a PDF copy of your score report through the Common Application.

  • Email a PDF copy of your score report to undergradmail@uic.edu.

  • Request an official score report from ACT or the College Board.

  • Submit scores as part of your official high school transcript.

Self-reported scores and SuperScore reports will not be used.

Frequently Asked Questions — First-Year Admission

Should I submit my ACT or SAT scores?

If you have taken the ACT or SAT and believe your scores strengthen your application, we encourage you to submit them.

Students who do not submit scores receive full consideration through UIC's holistic review process. There is no admission advantage to submitting ACT or SAT scores. Standardized test scores are reviewed only when they positively contribute to an applicant's overall application.

How do I submit my ACT or SAT scores?

UIC does not use self-reported ACT or SAT scores submitted through the Common Application, nor are SuperScore reports used in the admission review process.

Students who wish to have ACT or SAT scores considered may submit them in one of the following ways:

  • Upload a PDF copy of the score report through the Common Application.
  • Request an official score report from ACT, UIC's ACT code is 1155, or the College Board, UIC's SAT code is 1851.
  • Submit scores as part of an official high school transcript.
  • Have a counselor or school official email a PDF copy of the student's score report to undergradmail@uic.edu.

Score reports submitted by counselors or school officials should include:

  • Student name
  • Date of birth
  • Testing date
  • Composite (ACT) or total (SAT) score
  • All subscores

Students are encouraged to submit testing materials as early as possible if they would like ACT or SAT scores considered during the admission review process.

What is the Test Optional Policy?

UIC's Test Optional approach means that ACT and SAT scores are considered only when they provide additional value to an applicant's overall review. Standardized test scores will be considered only when they positively contribute to a student's application and support a stronger assessment of academic preparation and potential for success at UIC.

When does UIC's Test Optional Admissions Policy take effect?

The policy takes effect beginning with the 2027 undergraduate admission cycle.

Why did UIC adopt the Test Optional approach?

UIC adopted a Test Optional approach to further its commitment to educational access, equity, and holistic review. The policy recognizes that student potential, achievement, and readiness for college success cannot be fully measured by standardized test scores alone.

How are ACT and SAT scores used during application review?

Standardized test scores are considered only when they positively contribute to a student's application and support a stronger assessment of academic preparation and potential for success. Scores that do not strengthen an application are not considered in the evaluation process.

Will UIC delay reviewing an application while waiting for test scores?

No. Application review may begin once all required application materials, including official transcripts, have been received. Because ACT and SAT scores are optional, UIC will not delay application review pending the receipt of standardized test scores.

Will students who do not submit test scores be disadvantaged?

No. Students who choose not to submit ACT or SAT scores will receive full and comprehensive consideration for admission under the same standards applied to all applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions — Other items

Will I still be eligible for merit scholarships if I do not submit scores?

Yes. Test-optional applicants are eligible for review for merit scholarships without any disadvantage. Apply by the Early Action deadline for priority consideration for scholarships. See prioritydate.uic.edu for scholarship criteria. 

Will I be able to be considered for UIC’s special programs like the Guaranteed Professional Programs Admissions initiative (GPPA), Honors College?

Yes. Applicants to the Honors College and the Guaranteed Professional Programs Admissions initiative (GPPA) will be considered without a test score. Your review will not be at a disadvantage by selecting test-optional.