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GPA, Involvement Provide a More Reliable, Realistic Predictor of Success Over Test Scores

March 17, 2021

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL -- More than 1,700 colleges and universities across the U.S., including Western Illinois University are taking a more holistic approach to admissions by considering extracurricular involvement and a high school GPA versus the traditional SAT/ACT score as an indicator of academic success.

WIU made the decision to go "test optional" in October 2019 for students applying for the 2020-21 academic year. At the time, Western was one of just two Illinois public institutions that decided to go test-optional for college admissions. WIU will continue its test optional admissions policy for students applying for the 2022-2023 academic year and beyond. Students are automatically admitted to WIU if they have a 2.75 or higher high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale). To apply, visit wiu.edu/apply.

According to a recent study from the Princeton Review, students said the most stressful part of the application process was taking standardized tests. By assessing other factors, such as involvement, volunteerism and grade point average, students have greater access to higher education, noted Doug Freed, director of undergraduate admissions at WIU.

"A single test score is not an indicator of success. Some students do not test well, yet are successful students in high school and college. High school students who wish to continue their education shouldn't be penalized by what would be considered a below average standardized test score," Freed added. "WIU is committed to admitting students whose academic records indicate a high potential for success, and their involvement, their service and their high school grade point average are important factors for their success."

Students with a GPA less than 2.75, but at least 2.0, are not required to submit test scores; however, they may be requested to submit additional documents as part of the admissions review.

In addition to the automatic/test optional admission for students with a 2.75 and higher GPA, WIU also offers an enhanced Western Commitment (WC) Scholarship program, which automatically awards $3,000-8,000 each year to incoming freshmen with excellent academic ability and achievement in high school. Western's Transfer Commitment Scholarship program provides an automatic award of $2,500, even for part-time transfer students.

Prospective freshmen interested in being considered for admission or automatic scholarships available at WIU can apply at wiu.edu/apply. More information on WIU scholarships (automatic and donor designated application-based scholarships) can be found at wiu.edu/scholarships.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing