Test-Optional FAQs
Students seeking freshman admission to the University of South Carolina’s Columbia campus will not be required to submit SAT or ACT scores for the spring, summer or fall 2026 terms. The test-optional policy applies to general university admission, the South Carolina Honors College and merit scholarships awarded by the Office of Undergraduate Admissions.
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When you apply, you can choose whether you would like your test scores to be considered.
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No, students will be considered fairly and equitably regardless of whether or not they submit scores.
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Yes, this includes applicants from secondary schools that use written evaluations instead of grades.
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Although we cannot provide individualized advice on submitting test scores, we recommend reviewing our academic profile and making the decision that is right for you.
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All students will be considered for merit scholarships, regardless of whether they apply test-optional. Please note that some scholarships require submission of the Honors College application.
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At this time we are only test-optional through spring, summer and fall 2026. While we do not require test scores for admission and scholarship consideration, we encourage students to take the SAT or ACT if it is required by their school, district or state, or by local, state and national scholarship programs. Additionally, some colleges still require test scores.
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Test scores listed on the transcript will not be reviewed. If a student is electing to have test scores considered, only official test scores sent through a testing agency or self-reported test scores through the USC Admissions Portal will be reviewed.
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If a student chooses the test-optional option on their application, any official test scores submitted will not be reviewed.