Test-Optional Policy

Lewis & Clark College adopted a test-optional admission policy in 1991 with the belief that standardized testing does not always accurately reflect a student’s true academic potential. As a leader in the test-optional movement, we do not require that students submit either the SAT or the ACT for admission consideration.

Students who choose to submit scores can self report them through their Pioneer Portal or have them sent by a school official or testing agency. For those that submit scores, we will include them in our holistic review of a student’s application materials for admission; however, they will not play a role in the awarding of merit-based or need-based financial aid.