Test-Free Admission

UNE uses a test-free admissions policy, which means we will not consider ACT or SAT scores for general admission. Instead, we will review your high school experience as a whole. 

Exceptions

If you are an applicant included in the list below, you have the option to submit your test scores.

  • Nursing applicants
  • Medical Biology/Pre-Dental Medicine (D.M.D. 3+4) applicants
  • Home-schooled applicants
  • Some international applicants
  • Applicants with unweighted GPAs less than 3.0 (on 4.0 scale)
  • Applicants with narrative or non-letter grade transcripts

FAQ

What does test-free mean?

Test-free means that we will not consider standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for general admission. Instead, we will review your high school experience as a whole. 

How is test-free different from test-optional?

Test-free differs from test-optional because we will no longer review your standardized test scores (SAT or ACT) for general admission. Test-optional, on the other hand, allows you to choose whether or not you want to submit your standardized test scores. 

Are there any instances when UNE would look at my test scores?

Yes, if you are among the following applicants listed below and you indicate on your application that you would like your test scores to be considered, we will review them with your application. The following applicants are given the option to submit official standardized test scores as part of their application to UNE: 

  • Nursing applicants 
  • Medical Biology/Pre-Dental Medicine (D.M.D 3+4) applicants
  • Homeschooled applicants
  • International applicants
  • Applicants with unweighted GPAs less than 3.0 (on 4.0 scale)
  • Applicants with narrative or non-letter grade transcripts
If I am among the test-free exceptions listed above, how do I know if I should submit my scores?

Please contact your admissions counselor. The choice to submit or not to submit your SAT/ACT scores is yours. Answering the following questions may be helpful in making your decision:

  • How do I feel about my test scores?
  • Do they accurately reflect my academic abilities or not?
  • Does my high school GPA more accurately reflect my academic abilities?
Why does UNE have a test-free admission policy?

Our research shows that a student’s performance in high school is the most significant predictor of their academic success at UNE.

Since you are not considering test scores, what are you looking for in an application when making an admissions decision?

We look at your essays, recommendations, grades, and coursework holistically. 

What does a holistic application review mean?

We aim to look at the whole applicant — more than a test score or GPA. All factors are considered in our review process.

Will submitting my test scores have any bearing on my merit award?

Test scores will not affect your merit award. 

Does test-free admission make it easier to be accepted?

Not necessarily. We are looking for a strong academic and personal record that will allow you to become a good fit within our community. 

I’m an international student. What test scores will I need to submit?

You will need to submit one of the following standardized test scores: SAT, ACT, TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo English Test or PTE Academic scores. However, if you meet one of the following criteria, you are eligible to apply without any standardized test scores:

  • Attended a regionally accredited U.S. high school or U.S. Department of Defense school for at least three years
  • Received an associate, bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or doctorate from a regionally accredited U.S. college or university
  • Currently enrolled in an International Baccalaureate Curriculum or International Baccalaureate Diploma program

Contact Undergraduate Admissions

Office of Undergraduate Admissions
University of New England
11 Hills Beach Road
Biddeford, Maine 04005
(800) 477-4863
admissions@une.edu

Office hours are Monday–Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.