Douglas Olsen
The California State University system has ended its SAT and ACT admissions requirements, becoming the first US state with no public universities that accept standardised test scores for admissions. The SAT and ACT are no longer requirements for freshman admissions at CSU campuses, and the university system is now test-blind. However, it is unclear whether this applies to international students, who are assessed using separate requirements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Does CSU require SAT subject tests for international students? | No, as of 2021, the SAT/ACT is not required for students applying for freshman admission to a CSU campus. |
| What are the current eligibility criteria? | The minimum eligibility requirement is a 2.5-grade point average for California high school graduates and a 3.0 if the applicant isn't a state resident. |
| Are there any plans to reintroduce the SAT/ACT? | No, the Cal State system has ended its use of admissions tests, and the new criteria will focus on high school grades and life experiences. |
| What about international students? | International students are assessed on academic preparation, verification of English proficiency, financial resources, and academic performance. |
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What You'll Learn
- SAT/ACT not required for international students applying for Fall 2021 freshman admission
- CSUs are test-blind for the high school class of 2022
- GPA, extracurriculars, work experience, and curriculum are important factors
- English proficiency, financial resources, and academic performance are considered for international students
- The CSU Eligibility Index includes high school GPA and SAT/ACT scores
SAT/ACT not required for international students applying for Fall 2021 freshman admission
The California State University (CSU) system has not required SAT or ACT scores for freshman applications since 2021. This change was implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertainty that students faced at the time. The SAT and ACT are no longer required for admissions at any public university in California, making it the first and only US state to do so.
The CSU system is now "'test-blind'", meaning that it does not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission. Instead, the system is creating a new set of eligibility criteria, focusing on high school grades and life experiences. This includes a minimum eligibility requirement of a 2.5-grade point average for California high school graduates and a 3.0 GPA for out-of-state applicants. Additionally, applicants must complete 15 courses in math, English, science, history, and other subjects.
While the SAT and ACT are no longer required, students who have taken these tests can still submit their scores. Doing so can support their statewide CSU eligibility, application for scholarships, and fulfilment of some university graduation requirements.
For international students, the CSU system uses separate requirements and application filing dates. Verification of English proficiency, financial resources, and academic performance are all important considerations for admissions. Academic records from foreign institutions must be on file at least 60 days before registration for the first term and must be accompanied by certified English translations if they are not in English.
It is important to note that not all colleges within the CSU system have the same standardized testing requirements, so it is recommended to contact each CSU that you are applying to in order to find out their specific requirements.
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CSUs are test-blind for the high school class of 2022
In March 2020, the California State University (CSU) system formally ditched the SAT and ACT as admissions requirements, becoming the first and only state in the US with no public university accepting standardised test scores for admissions. The University of California system also swore off the SAT and any other admissions tests. This change will come into effect for students applying for Fall 2025 admissions.
This means that CSUs are test-blind for the high school class of 2022. The following are some of the CSUs that will not consider SAT or ACT scores for the high school class of 2022:
- Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo
- All 23 CSU campuses, according to Dr Grommo, CSU Systemwide Director of Enrollment Management Services
The most important factors considered for admission to these universities include GPA, extracurriculars, work experience, and strength of curriculum. However, it's important to note that not all colleges have dropped the testing requirement, and students should plan to test if they are applying to any colleges that have not made that announcement.
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GPA, extracurriculars, work experience, and curriculum are important factors
As of 2021, the California State University (CSU) system no longer requires SAT or ACT scores for admissions. Instead, the CSU system will focus on high school grades and life experiences. The minimum eligibility requirement is a 2.5 GPA for California high school graduates and a 3.0 GPA for out-of-state applicants. Additionally, applicants must complete 15 courses in math, English, science, history, and other subjects.
While GPA and coursework are typically the most important factors in college applications, extracurricular activities, work experience, and curriculum are also important factors that can impact admissions decisions. Here's how each of these factors can contribute to a student's application:
Extracurricular Activities
Extracurricular activities can demonstrate a student's interests, passions, and commitment outside of academics. Admissions officers look for noticeable patterns among the activities an applicant has participated in, which can indicate science, musical, athletic, or humanitarian inclinations. While variety is beneficial, it is also important to show commitment and leadership within these activities. For example, progressing from a general member to a leadership role in a club demonstrates growth and initiative. Additionally, founding a club or organization can showcase leadership and entrepreneurial skills.
Work Experience
Work experience, whether full-time, part-time, or freelance, can be a valuable addition to a college application. Balancing work with academic studies demonstrates time management skills, reliability, teamwork, and work ethic. If an applicant has worked their way up to a managerial position, it showcases sustained commitment and excellence, which are qualities that admissions officers seek.
Curriculum
The curriculum chosen by a student, beyond the minimum course requirements, can also impact admissions decisions. Selecting courses that align with a student's interests and passions can complement their regular classroom studies. For example, joining the school newspaper if they enjoy writing or participating in math club if they excel in algebra. This demonstrates a student's curiosity, willingness to learn, and interest in a field beyond the classroom, which are qualities that colleges value.
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English proficiency, financial resources, and academic performance are considered for international students
As of 2022, the California State University system no longer requires SAT or ACT scores for admissions, including for international students. Instead, the focus is on high school grades and life experiences. The minimum eligibility requirement is a 2.5-grade point average for California high school graduates and a 3.0 GPA for out-of-state applicants. Additionally, applicants must complete 15 courses in math, English, science, history, and other subjects (known as A-G courses). Some campuses may accept lower GPAs but will consider other academic and socio-economic factors.
For international students, English proficiency is a crucial requirement for admission to California State University. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the campus and program, there are generally two ways to demonstrate English proficiency:
English Language Proficiency Tests
International students can provide scores from standardized English language tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Each campus and program will have its own minimum score requirements, so it is essential to check the specific requirements for your desired program.
Previous Education in English
If you have completed your previous education in a country where English is the primary language, you may be exempt from providing additional English proficiency test scores. This typically applies if you have completed at least one qualification or a certain number of years of study in English.
Additionally, financial resources and academic performance are considered for international students applying to California State University. While there may not be specific financial requirements, demonstrating sufficient funds to support your education and living expenses is essential. This can include proof of personal or family funds, scholarships, or other sources of financial aid.
Regarding academic performance, California State University will evaluate your high school transcripts, including your grades and the courses you have taken. They may also consider any special circumstances or achievements that reflect your academic potential.
It is important to note that the requirements and considerations for international students may vary slightly depending on the specific campus and program you are applying to within the California State University system. Therefore, it is always advisable to review the specific requirements provided by the campus and program of your choice.
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The CSU Eligibility Index includes high school GPA and SAT/ACT scores
The California State University (CSU) system has ended the use of admissions tests for freshmen, including the SAT and ACT. This means that SAT subject tests are no longer required for international students applying to CSU. However, the CSU must still assess the academic preparation of international students. For admission to the 2007-2008 college year, the CSU Eligibility Index did not include writing scores from the SAT or ACT. Instead, it combined the high school grade point average (GPA) and scores on either the ACT or SAT. The GPA is based on grades earned in courses taken during the final three years of high school, including college preparatory "a-g" subject requirements and bonus points for approved honours courses.
To calculate the CSU Eligibility Index (EI), you can multiply your grade point average by 800 and add your total score on the mathematics and critical reading scores of the SAT. For the ACT, multiply your grade point average by 200 and add ten times the ACT composite score. The minimum eligibility requirement for California high school graduates is a 2.5 GPA, while non-resident applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, all applicants must complete 15 courses in math, English, science, history, and other subjects (known as A-G courses). Some campuses may accept lower GPAs but will consider other academic and socio-economic factors.
While the SAT and ACT are no longer required, students applying for Fall 2021 admission were encouraged to submit their scores, as they could positively impact their applications. For the high school class of 2021, students who submitted good SAT or ACT scores were more likely to gain admission. Therefore, it is still important to consider taking these tests and submitting scores if possible. The CSU system will gradually implement its new eligibility criteria, with the new index coming into effect for students applying for Fall 2025 admissions.
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Frequently asked questions
No, as of 2021, the SAT/ACT is no longer required for freshman admissions at CSU. However, international students must meet separate requirements and have their academic records on file at least 60 days before registration.
The new eligibility criteria will focus on students' high school grades and life experiences. The minimum eligibility requirement is a 2.5-grade point average for California high school graduates and a 3.0 GPA for out-of-state applicants.
CSU officials cited studies showing that high school grades are better predictors of first-year college performance than test scores. Additionally, critics argued that the SAT disadvantages low-income students who cannot afford test preparation resources.
The change took place in 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic, affecting students applying for Fall 2021 freshman admission.
No, each CSU campus may have different testing requirements. For example, Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo did not consider SAT or ACT scores for the high school class of 2022.
