Who Should Submit Test Scores
If you believe your score positively reflects your ability and potential, submit them with your application.
Keep in mind, we “superscore” SAT scores. If you have taken the SAT more than once, we will use the highest scores achieved in each section. Chapman will use the highest composite score on the ACT.
To help you determine whether to submit scores, here are some averages for admitted students to our Fall 2023 class who submitted scores:
- Test Scores
- SAT (Math and Verbal)
- Top 25%: 1460 or above
- Average: 1387
- Bottom 25%: 1330 or below
- ACT Scores (Composite)
- Top 25%: 33 or above
- Average: 31
- Bottom 25%: 29 or below
- SAT (Math and Verbal)
- Average High School GPA: 3.87
Note that for students admitted in 2020 (the last year test scores were required), the average SAT score was 1312 and the average ACT score was 28.
If you would like additional assistance in determining whether to apply test-optional, you can reach out to your admission counselor.
Test Optional Exceptions
We strongly recommend that those who are home-schooled or attend a high school that provides narrative transcripts submit a standardized test score with their application. If either of these apply to you and you apply without test scores, you may still be asked to submit them by our admission committee.
In addition, all applicants who are non-native English speakers must submit proof of English proficiency. Students who score at least a 600 on the SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing section, or a 24 on both the ACT English and Reading sections, will automatically have this requirement waived. For more information, visit our International Admission page.
Changing Test Optional Status
If you are a fall first-year applicant and would like to change your test-optional status after submitting your application, you must:
- Submit your request before November 30 (for Early Action/Early Decision) or January 30 (for Regular Decision)
- Email your admission counselor your request for changing your test-optional status
If you are a transfer applicant, you can contact the Transfer Team at transfers@chapman.edu.
Merit Scholarship Consideration
You do not need to submit a test score to be considered for a merit scholarship. All students are reviewed for merit scholarships, whether they applied test optional or not.
If you choose to submit a test score, it will be utilized for admission and merit reviews. However, applying as test optional and not submitting a test score will not hinder your chances. Our review process is truly holistic and our committee reviews applications in their entirety to determine admission and merit scholarship eligibility. A test score is one piece of a student’s application, as are extracurricular activities, a personal statement, short answer questions, etc.
If you need some guidance, reach out to your counselor. We’re here to help!
