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Testing Policy

Standardized Testing Policy

Macalester College maintains a test-optional policy for both first-year and transfer applicants. Submission of ACT or SAT scores is not required as part of the application process. Students who choose not to submit test scores face no disadvantage in either the admissions selection process or the distribution of merit scholarships.

For applicants who do opt to submit SAT or ACT scores, it’s important to note that Macalester does not impose a minimum score requirement. The college recognizes that the value of SAT or ACT scores can vary significantly from one applicant to another. These scores, when submitted, are considered as just one element among many in a holistic evaluation of an applicant’s potential for academic success at Macalester. Results from IB and AP examinations are not required, but Admissions Committee members will consider them if submitted.

Of the students enrolling for Fall 2023, 56% did not submit test scores, and 75% of those were awarded a merit scholarship.

Submitting Examination Scores

The submission of official scores may present a financial barrier to some students. As we do not wish to constrain applicants from their ability to apply to a diverse set of institutions, we will accept self-reported test scores.

Self-reported test scores may be submitted in the following ways:

  • Enter scores in the testing section of the Common Application or the QuestBridge Application.
  • Submit test scores in the online Applicant Portal (available after submission of an application to Macalester).
  • Submit screenshots or scanned copies of score reports via email to [email protected]

Official test scores may be submitted in the following ways:

  • Direct submission from the testing agency (SAT or ACT). Macalester’s testing codes are 2122 (ACT) and 6390 (SAT)
  • On the official transcript sent by the student’s high school counselor, registrar, or other school

Verification of Self-Reported Standardized Test Scores: Macalester will verify the accuracy of enrolling students’ self-reported scores submitted during admissions after a student confirms their intent to enroll. At that time, students must submit official test scores through the methods outlined above. Any discrepancy between official and self-reported scores may result in the withdrawal of our offer of admission.

How the Admissions Committee uses ACT and SAT scores

Applicants who choose to submit ACT or SAT results are encouraged to provide all their testing scores. 

  • For SAT submissions, the committee will evaluate the best Math section score and the best Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section score from different test dates.
  • For ACT submissions, the highest sub-section scores from multiple test dates will be considered, along with the highest composite score submitted.

It’s important to note that Macalester practices holistic admissions review without enforcing minimum test score requirements. This approach allows for a comprehensive evaluation of each applicant’s strengths and potential, regardless of standardized test performance. 

Testing data for students submitting ACT or SAT score results

Middle 50% of testing ranges for admitted students*:
SAT EBRW: 680-750
SAT Math: 680-760
ACT: 30-33

*The middle 50% statistic describes the distribution of admitted students’ test scores. It means that 25% of admitted students scored below the ranges outlined above, 50% within, and 25% above.

Required Testing for International Students:

If English is neither the primary (first) language nor the primary language of secondary school instruction, results of an English-proficiency test are required. Duolingo English Test, IELTS, and TOEFL (internet-based and TOEFL Essentials) are all accepted.

  • Self-reported IELTS and internet-based TOEFL test scores will be accepted in the selection process. Admitted students who decide to attend Macalester will be required to submit official score reports.
  • TOEFL Essentials and Duolingo English Test scores must be submitted directly from testing agencies. Alternative English tests, such as the TOEFL IBT Home Edition,  are not accepted.

English Proficiency Waiver: If the applicant’s first language is English, or the applicant attends a secondary school where the primary language of instruction is English. Applicants may request that the English Proficiency requirement be waived by completing the ENGLISH PROFICIENCY Testing Waiver Request Form in their Applicant Portal.

International Curriculum

  • GCEs (Cambridge/Edexel-Pearson): Applicants in an A-Level curriculum must submit O-Level/IGCSE results and predicted A-Level results.
  • International Baccalaureate: Applicants in an IB curriculum must submit anticipated or predicted IB results.

National Curriculum

Students from countries with national university entrance exams (such as WASSCE, EGSE, KCSE, CAPE, ISCE/CBSE, HLC, Baccalaureate, etc.) are required to submit expected/predicted and official results.