Manhattan College Will Be Test-Optional for Fall 2021 Incoming Class

Students applying to Manhattan College for admission in the fall of 2021 will not be required to submit SAT or ACT scores with their application materials. The test optional policy will be in place for one year, after which it will be reviewed.

“In light of the test cancellations during the pandemic, we want to ensure that we reduce any potential barriers and provide flexibility for all students who wish to be considered for admission to Manhattan College,” said Colette Geary, Ph.D., Vice President of Enrollment Management.

The College will provide students the opportunity to demonstrate their potential in a holistic application review that weighs various factors in the admissions decision, with or without the inclusion of ACT or SAT scores. A student may submit standardized test scores if they wish to have them considered in the application review process.

“An applicant’s record of success in completing challenging college-preparatory high school coursework will continue to play an important part in Manhattan’s evaluation of candidates for admission,” said Tara Fay-Reilly, Director of Undergraduate Admissions.  

In addition to the high school transcript, the personal essay and record of extracurricular activities, including leadership experiences, will be important factors. Letters of recommendation are also valuable elements of the application which provide a fuller picture of each student.

International students whose native language is not English still must demonstrate proficiency by taking the TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo English tests. 

Students who have already taken the SAT or ACT, or who plan to take those exams during the 2020-21 academic year, may still submit those scores. If a student does submit their test score, only a student’s highest scores will be considered for admission, course placement and scholarship eligibility. While these scores are an important part of an application, they are considered in combination with other requirements. 

Applicants to the School of Engineering are encouraged to submit test scores to guide appropriate placement into first-year courses such as physics, chemistry and calculus, even when they choose not to have the test scores be considered in their application for admission. 

“We are seeking qualified and motivated students who will contribute to the richness of our academic community,” Geary said. “Getting to know each student, and his or her unique potential to be successful, has always been the ultimate goal of our admissions process.”

Manhattan College will welcome students, faculty and staff back to campus this fall when classes resume on August 31. Academic courses and experiences will be in person to the extent possible, following safety guidelines. A combination of instructional models, including remote, hybrid and synchronous in-person/online classes, will ensure flexible options. Reduced density to promote physical distancing will be strictly maintained in all classrooms, dining halls and other common spaces, including facilities and employee offices.

Those interested in applying for admission to Manhattan College should visit https://manhattan.edu/apply.