In response to global academic disruptions and unprecedented obstacles caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Loyola Marymount University will waive the ACT/SAT requirement for fall 2021 applicants.
As testing center cancellations continue worldwide, this decision reflects the university’s commitment to prospective students and their families during this time of uncertainty and stress. The policy will apply to all programs and all majors, and all students will still be considered for scholarships.
“Everything that LMU stands for made this decision the right one,” said Maureen Weatherall, vice provost for Enrollment Management. “Our university is guided by cura personalis, the Jesuit principle of caring for the whole person, and in the interest of fairness, waiving this requirement makes good sense.”
LMU is confident in selecting and enrolling an academically talented and diverse group of students under this new policy. LMU will not extend admission preference based on whether or not an applicant submits test scores. Students who believe their test scores are an important indication of their accomplishment and potential are welcome to submit them to be considered along with all other submitted materials; students who are unable to take the tests, or choose not to submit their scores, will be at no disadvantage in the university’s holistic evaluation of their application.
All of the university’s admission efforts for fall 2020 and beyond will carefully consider the impact of this global health crisis on the applicants and how LMU can best support their transition to college.
More information about LMU’s adjustments to undergraduate admissions policies can be found at our Admissions FAQ.