After a comprehensive review by our admissions professionals, input from faculty, and an extensive study of national and Hofstra-specific data, we have concluded that standardized tests are not the most important predictors of academic success at Hofstra. Instead, our studies indicate that the best predictor of success in college is a student’s high school academic record and the performance of day-to-day work in the classroom. For these reasons, the high school transcript will continue to be the primary focus of our application review, with or without standardized test scores.
We understand that SAT and ACT scores are not always a reflection of student ability, so we are not requiring standardized test scores for students applying to Hofstra for full-time undergraduate admission. This provides you with the ability to decide for yourself how to best present your academic strengths and abilities to the admission committee and allows you to decide whether or not the standardized test results accurately reflect your academic ability and potential.
Thirty-five percent of students, admitted to Hofstra for the fall 2023 semester, submitted their test scores. The mid-range of admitted students submitting SAT scores is 1260 to 1440 (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + Math), with an average ACT equivalent of 28 to 33. If you do choose to submit SAT or ACT scores, we will superscore ALL scores submitted. For those who choose not to submit SAT or ACT scores, their entire record will be part of a comprehensive and holistic review, with stronger emphasis placed on the high school transcript.
Test scores are required for the following students:
- Students who were homeschooled during high school. Email admission@hofstra.edu with any questions or concerns.
- Applicants to Hofstra’s direct-entry dual-degree program in Physician Assistant Studies and the Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD in conjunction with the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.
- Students interested in applying for Hofstra’s Trustee Scholarship.
How will I know if I should submit my test scores?
This test-optional policy is meant as an alternative; for nearly 30% of our applicants, submitting test scores is the right choice.
The mid-range of admitted students submitting SAT scores is 1260 to 1440 and the mid-range of admitted students submitting ACT scores is 28 to 33. If your scores fall within this range, including them in your application could make you a more competitive candidate.
Previous applicants have expressed the following concerns, and our counselors have offered advice, about their decision to submit test scores:
- “My test scores are above average, but I didn’t do as well on the SAT/ACT as I personally would have liked. “ This student should submit their test scores.
- “Standardized testing has been a weakness of mine throughout my high school career. My grades and curriculum are rigorous and competitive, but my SAT/ACT scores are below the school's mid-range.” This student should not submit their test scores.
- “I don’t want to pay or can’t afford to send my test scores.” Scores can be sent to us using a wide variety of free options. This student should submit their test scores.
- “Sending my test scores is an obstacle and will take way too long.” This student should submit their test scores.
- “I think that my academic profile is strong enough that I might be eligible for Hofstra’s prestigious and highly competitive Trustee Scholarship Program.” This student should submit their test scores.
- “My best test scores are significantly below Hofstra’s published mid-range scores (mentioned above).” This student should not submit their test scores.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Why did Hofstra choose to make standardized test scores optional in the admission process?
At Hofstra, we are firm believers that your potential for success cannot be determined solely by standardized test scores, and we see you as much more than a test score! We understand that standardized tests are not the most important predictors of academic success. The Admission Committee reviews applicants holistically and considers high school performance, strength of curriculum, and achievements in the classroom and the community. This test-optional policy is meant as an alternative; for nearly 75% of our applicants, submitting test scores is the right choice. Please note that international students must submit test scores to qualify for admission. Please see the International Frequently Asked Questions for additional information.
2) How will I know if I should submit my test scores?
This test-optional policy is meant as an alternative; for nearly 30% of our applicants, submitting test scores is the right choice.
The mid-range of admitted students submitting SAT scores is 1260 to 1440 and the mid-range of admitted students submitting ACT scores is 28 to 33. If your scores fall within this range, including them in your application could make you a more competitive candidate.
Previous applicants have expressed the following concerns, and our counselors have offered advice, about their decision to submit test scores:
- “My test scores are above average, but I didn’t do as well on the SAT/ACT as I personally would have liked." This student should submit their test scores.
- “Standardized testing has been a weakness of mine throughout my high school career. My grades and curriculum are rigorous and competitive, but my SAT/ACT scores aren’t as strong as I would have liked.” This student should not submit their test scores.
- “I don’t want to pay or can’t afford to send my test scores.” Scores can be sent to us using a wide variety of free options. This student should submit their test scores.
- “Sending my test scores is an obstacle and will take way too long.” This student should submit their test scores.
- “I think that my academic profile is strong enough that I might be eligible for Hofstra’s prestigious and highly competitive Trustee Scholarship Program.” This student should submit their test scores.
- “My best test scores are significantly below Hofstra’s published average and mid-range scores (mentioned above).” This student should not submit their test scores.
3) What qualities will the admission committee look for?
The admission committee looks for ambitious, determined, and motivated students who are eager to explore a variety of subjects and gain hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. Thus, our review process for any applicant includes a close look at:
- The applicant’s high school curriculum and its rigor
- Academic and personal strengths and weaknesses
- Depth of commitment, contribution and potential for leadership
- Performance on standardized tests (if presented)
- Strength of the applicant’s character, integrity, and maturity
4) If I choose not to submit my standardized test scores, will I still be considered for merit-based scholarships?
Yes, all applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, whether or not they submit scores. Keep in mind that the Presidential Scholars Program and Trustee Scholarship Program are offered only to students who submit standardized test scores; these students are among the top 10% in academic achievement in the entire applicant pool.
More than 80% of admitted test-optional candidates are offered the Provost Scholars Award or Deans Scholars Award. Click here for an in-depth description of merit-based scholarships available at Hofstra.
5) What if I have sent my test scores, but choose to apply as a test-optional candidate?
If you have previously sent standardized test scores to Hofstra, or they appear on your high school transcript, the admission committee will not consider them during their review, if you have selected you are applying “test optional” on your application.
6) If I choose not to submit standardized test scores, will I still be considered for Honors College?
Yes; standardized test scores are not required for consideration to Honors College. Invitations to Honors College are not based on any single criterion; these students have challenged themselves in the classroom by taking and performing well in honors, IB, and AP-level curriculum while maintaining a very strong high school average very close to or above an A-. For those who choose to submit a standardized test score, a 1340 or better on the evidence-based reading and writing + math sections of the SAT (or a 29 on the ACT) is recommended. Additionally, this elite group of applicants typically submits a co-curricular resume demonstrating commitment to one’s school and/or community along with strong leadership skills. For more information please visit hofstra.edu/honorscollege.
7) Are there any students who cannot apply as test-optional candidates?
Yes, not every student is able to apply without standardized test scores. Hofstra requires scores from:
- Students who were homeschooled during high school. Email admission@hofstra.edu with any questions or concerns.
- International students for whom English is not their native language must submit the results of the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or the SAT / ACT.
- Applicants to Hofstra’s direct-entry, dual-degree program in Physician Assistant Studies and the Hofstra 4+4 Program: BS-BA/MD in conjunction with the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell.
- Students interested in applying for Hofstra’s Trustee Scholarship.
- Online high school students.
** Please Note: No other dual-degree programs require the submission of standardized test scores.**
8) Does this policy apply to transfer students?
Yes. Transfer students with fewer than 24 earned credits may elect not to submit standardized test scores. Transfer students with 24 or more earned college credits will be evaluated on the basis of their college performance.
9) Do you require or recommend any other material to be submitted if I don’t submit a test score?
An interview is strongly encouraged and for some may be required. If there is anything else that you believe may set you apart from other applicants and/or distinguish a special talent or ability, contact your admission counselor regarding the best way to highlight these characteristics.