John Carroll is test-optional for fall 2025 applicants.
What does test-optional mean at JCU?
John Carroll University practices no-harm, test-optional admission. This means that submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required for admission. Test scores, if submitted, are one of many factors we consider when making admission decisions. Test scores can strengthen an application, and our “no harm” policy means that if you choose to submit test scores that do not strengthen your application, the test scores are simply ignored. Any test scores submitted and used for admission are superscored. If you choose to apply test-optional, we will place additional weight on the rigor of your high school curriculum and course grades, particularly in English and math courses.
Do I have the option to change my mind after I submit my application for admission?
Students applying test-optional for fall 2025 may elect to change their decision by submitting a formal request in writing to their admission counselor, along with a copy of their test scores, by January 2, 2025. We will only be able to consider SAT and ACT scores for tests taken through December 2024.
If I don't submit a test score, how will my application be reviewed?
John Carroll University has always taken a holistic approach to reviewing admission applications. This means we look at all of the items in your application, including your academic performance, rigor of coursework, essay, recommendations, co-curricular involvement, and SAT/ACT scores (if you decide to submit them). Because JCU considers applicants holistically, the review process for students submitting scores and those not submitting scores will be very similar.
Will my decision to submit a score impact my consideration for a merit scholarship?
All students admitted to JCU will automatically be considered for a merit scholarship, regardless of whether or not they have submitted ACT or SAT scores.
Listed scholarship values are annual amounts that automatically renew for a total of four years as long as academic and conduct standards are maintained. Students are notified of their scholarship at the time of admission.
Magis Scholarship Starting at $25,000
Presidential Scholarship Starting at $22,000
University Scholarship Starting at $17,000
Ignatian Award $15,000
Are there certain majors at JCU that require a test score?
None of the majors at John Carroll University require students to submit a test score when applying.
Are transfer applicants required to submit a test score?
Transfer applicants who have earned fewer than 24 hours are highly encouraged to submit an ACT or SAT score if they have previously taken either test. Transfer applicants who have fewer than 24 hours and who have not taken the ACT or SAT should contact their admission counselor for more information.
Are international applicants required to submit a test score?
International applicants will still need to demonstrate English proficiency by submitting either a TOEFL or IELTS score when applying to JCU.
Are homeschooled students required to submit a test score?
While homeschooled applicants are not required to submit ACT or SAT scores as part of their application, complete and detailed documentation of high school coursework and evaluations of progress from an approved home-school evaluator or supervisor will need to be submitted. For more information, visit jcu.edu/applynow.
Do I need to submit a test score if I want to be considered for Medical School Early Acceptance Programs (LECOM and OU-HCOM)?
Students planning to enter JCU in fall 2025 who wish to apply to the LECOM Early Acceptance Program are not required to submit an ACT or SAT score. However, students without SAT/ACT scores will either have to complete the MMS program with a 3.0 GPA or higher, or score a 500 on the MCAT for the medical program. Students with low SAT/ACT scores can opt out of the MMS program or MCAT, if their AIS is a 115 or higher for the medical program.
Students applying to the OU-HCOM Early Acceptance Program will not be required to submit an ACT or SAT score.
Do I need to submit a test score if I want to be considered for the 3+3 Law Program?
Students are not required to submit test scores in order to be considered for the 3+3 Law Program.
Do I need to submit a test score if I enroll at JCU?
JCU will not require enrolling students to submit scores.