10 Test-Optional Colleges With Strong Engineering Programs

Many top engineering colleges no longer require standardized test scores as part of the application process. These test-optional colleges let you decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores, putting more weight on your GPA, coursework, essays, and activities. That means students with strong academic records and practical experience still have access to competitive engineering programs, regardless of how they performed on a single test.

This article features some of the best engineering schools in the country that offer test-optional admissions and acceptance rates above 50% according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Each university is regionally accredited and offers engineering degrees accredited by ABET, the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

What Is a Test-Optional College?

Many colleges that don't require SAT or ACT scores have adopted test-optional admissions policies, giving you the choice to apply without submitting standardized test results. These schools place greater weight on your high school GPA, the rigor of your courses, personal essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular involvement.

Test-optional policies aim to make admissions more accessible and equitable, especially for students who may not perform well on timed exams or lacked access to test preparation resources. This flexible approach gives you more control over how you present your academic strengths and potential.

The Best Test-Optional Engineering Schools

Below, we've ranked 10 engineering colleges by their cost. Each is ABET-accredited, which ensures that a program meets the quality standards needed to prepare students for careers in engineering, computing, and applied science.

1. University of Oklahoma

The Gallogly College of Engineering at the University of Oklahoma (OU) offers a variety of undergraduate programs that balance theory, application, and innovation. Students can pursue majors such as aerospace, biomedical, chemical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and petroleum engineering. The college integrates experiential learning into the curriculum through design projects, lab work, internships, and access to research centers focused on energy, healthcare, and infrastructure.

OU uses a test-optional admissions model, giving students the freedom to decide whether to include ACT or SAT scores in their application. Applicants are reviewed based on high school GPA, rigor of coursework, leadership experience, and community involvement. Test scores may be used for scholarship consideration or placement, but are not required for admission.

• Estimated tuition cost: $5,220 (in-state); $22,800 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

2. Auburn University

Auburn University's Samuel Ginn College of Engineering offers students the chance to dive into one of the South's most respected engineering programs. With ABET-accredited majors in aerospace, chemical, civil, computer science and software, electrical, environmental, industrial and systems, materials, mechanical, and wireless engineering, students can explore traditional paths or cutting-edge specialties. Auburn blends technical education with practical experience, offering undergraduate research, co-ops, and a strong alumni network that supports career development from day one.

Auburn uses a test-optional policy that allows applicants to choose whether to include ACT or SAT scores. Those who don't submit test results are still considered for admission, scholarships, and honors programs. The admissions team evaluates GPA, core course rigor, extracurriculars, leadership, and personal achievement to make well-rounded decisions.

• Estimated tuition cost: $6,659 (in-state); $18,011 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) offers 15 ABET-accredited undergraduate majors, including aerospace, civil, chemical, electrical, mechanical, and mining engineering. Students begin in a general engineering program and later declare a specific major, allowing time to explore different fields. The college emphasizes innovation and research, with access to world-class labs, design teams, and industry partnerships.

Virginia Tech remains test-optional. Applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores, though they may choose to include them. The admissions process focuses on academic achievement, course rigor, personal characteristics, and responses to short-answer questions, which are reviewed by multiple readers.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,548 (in-state); $35,408 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

4. Rutgers University - New Brunswick

At Rutgers University - New Brunswick, the School of Engineering offers a wide selection of undergraduate majors designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand technical fields. Options include applied sciences, biomedical, civil, chemical, electrical, industrial, mechanical, and materials science engineering. Programs combine rigorous classroom instruction with hands-on lab work, research opportunities, and professional development through internships and industry partnerships. Many students also take part in the Engineering Honors Academy for advanced coursework and mentoring.

Rutgers has a test-optional admissions policy, allowing students to decide whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. Applications are reviewed holistically, with emphasis placed on academic performance, course rigor, extracurricular involvement, and written statements. Test scores, if submitted, are considered as just one part of the overall application.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,222 (in-state); $33,734 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

5. University of Delaware

The University of Delaware (UD) offers a strong lineup of ABET-accredited undergraduate programs, including chemical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, biomedical, and mechanical engineering. Students benefit from research-focused instruction, access to cutting-edge facilities, and opportunities to engage in co-ops and internships with industry leaders. Interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning are key components of the curriculum, helping students apply engineering principles to real-world problems.

UD follows a test-optional admissions policy. Applicants can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores, and those who don't will still receive full consideration for admission and merit-based scholarships. The admissions review prioritizes high school coursework, GPA, class rank (if available), extracurricular activities, and essays.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,600 (in-state); $39,190 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: MSCHE

6. University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut (UConn) has a wide range of ABET-accredited undergraduate majors, including mechanical, civil, biomedical, electrical, chemical, computer, and environmental engineering. Students can also explore interdisciplinary options such as engineering physics and management & engineering for manufacturing. UConn focuses on both research and real-world application, providing students with access to faculty-led research, design competitions, industry partnerships, and internship opportunities that begin as early as the first year.

UConn follows a test-optional admissions policy. Students may apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, and their applications will still be fully reviewed for admission and merit scholarships. The university considers academic performance, course rigor, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations to evaluate applicants holistically.

• Estimated tuition cost: $17,010 (in-state); $26,028 (New England regional); $39,678 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

7. Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) offers a broad selection of engineering and engineering technology programs through its Kate Gleason College of Engineering and the College of Engineering Technology. Students can pursue ABET-accredited degrees in areas such as mechanical, biomedical, chemical, electrical, industrial, and computer engineering.

RIT also offers specialized programs in microelectronics, software, and robotics engineering. The university is known for its strong focus on experiential learning, including a mandatory cooperative education (co-op) program that allows students to gain paid, hands-on work experience before graduating.

RIT follows a test-optional admissions policy for all undergraduate applicants. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores, and those who opt not to will still receive full consideration for admission and merit scholarships. Admissions decisions place emphasis on high school performance, curriculum strength, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations.

• Estimated tuition cost: $60,774
• Accreditation: MSCHE

8. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) blends engineering education with real-world application through project-based learning. Students can major in disciplines such as aerospace, biomedical, civil, chemical, computer, electrical, environmental, manufacturing, mechanical, and robotics engineering.

All programs emphasize teamwork, global problem-solving, and hands-on experience through interactive projects and capstone design work. WPI's curriculum is designed to help students apply theory to practice from their first year onward.

WPI has a permanent test-optional admissions policy. Applicants can choose whether to include SAT or ACT scores, and those who don't will still be fully considered for admission and merit scholarships. The admissions team focuses on academic performance, rigor of high school courses, extracurriculars, and interest in WPI's distinctive learning approach.

• Estimated tuition cost: $61,790
• Accreditation: NECHE

9. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) offers a wide range of engineering programs through its School of Engineering, one of the oldest in the country. Undergraduate students can choose from ABET-accredited majors such as biomedical, civil, computer systems, electrical, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and nuclear engineering. The curriculum focuses on hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and interdisciplinary collaboration, with opportunities to engage in real-world problem-solving through the Arch program and co-ops.

RPI is test-optional for all students applying for admission. While standardized test scores are not required, students who feel their scores reflect their academic ability can submit them as part of the application. Admissions decisions will continue to weigh high school GPA, course rigor, extracurricular involvement, personal essays, and recommendations heavily.

• Estimated tuition cost: $64,400
• Accreditation: MSCHE

10. University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering offers a variety of ABET-accredited undergraduate programs, including mechanical, bioengineering, electrical, chemical, civil, industrial, and materials science engineering. Students start in a first-year engineering program that builds a foundation in math, science, and computing before selecting a major. Pitt emphasizes research and innovation, offering access to top-tier labs, faculty-led projects, and cooperative education (co-op) opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on industry experience.

Pitt uses a test-optional admissions policy. Applicants are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores and will receive full consideration for admission and scholarships regardless of whether scores are included. The admissions review is based on high school coursework, grades, class rank (if available), extracurriculars, and personal statements.

• Estimated tuition cost: $64,600 (in-state); $68,432 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: MSCHE

What Is the Average Acceptance Rate for Engineering Schools?

Engineering school acceptance rates vary widely based on the selectivity and size of the institution. Elite programs, especially at top research universities, may admit fewer than 20% of applicants due to high demand and limited spots.

In contrast, larger public institutions often have more accessible programs, with acceptance rates ranging from 50% to 80%. Some schools even offer guaranteed admission if students meet specific GPA and coursework criteria. Acceptance also depends on your chosen major—programs like computer and biomedical engineering tend to be more competitive.

Do Test-Optional Engineering Programs Have Easier Admissions?

Test-optional engineering programs aren't necessarily easier to get into; they simply shift the focus to other parts of your application. Without test scores, admissions teams will pay closer attention to your GPA, the difficulty of your high school courses (especially in math and science), your essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities.

While this offers more flexibility for students who didn't perform well on standardized tests, it doesn't mean the standards are lower. These programs are still competitive, especially for majors with high demand. A strong academic foundation, project experience, and personal achievements are essential to stand out in a test-optional pool.

Are You at a Disadvantage if You Apply Test-Optional?

Applying test-optional does not automatically put you at a disadvantage, especially at schools that have fully embraced the policy. Many colleges have restructured their review process to fairly evaluate students without standardized test scores. If your GPA is strong, your course load includes advanced math and science, and your essays and recommendations are compelling, you can still be a competitive applicant.

However, if you do have high SAT or ACT scores, submitting them may enhance your application. Ultimately, admissions teams want to understand your academic potential, and test scores are just one of many ways to show it.

What To Look for in a Test-Optional Engineering School

When researching test-optional engineering schools, start by checking if the school offers programs accredited by ABET. ABET accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and prepares you for licensure and employment.

Next, consider affordability and flexibility. Some of the cheapest online engineering degrees offer quality education without requiring relocation or full-time study. Look into internship or co-op opportunities, as hands-on experience is critical in engineering.

Also, review student support services, graduation rates, and how the curriculum aligns with your career goals. A strong engineering school should offer both academic rigor and practical training.

FAQs About Test-Optional Engineering Colleges

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about test-optional engineering programs. These answers include helpful information on affordability, program formats, admissions policies, and finding the right fit.

What Are the Most Affordable Online Engineering Degrees?

Many of the cheapest online engineering degrees are offered by public colleges that provide in-state tuition rates or charge a flat fee for online students. These programs typically focus on areas like engineering technology, industrial systems, or electronics engineering.

Schools may also partner with local industries to offer tuition discounts or work-study options. Be sure to verify that the program is regionally accredited and leads to recognized credentials in your field. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may further reduce costs.

How Fast Can You Earn an Online Engineering Degree?

Some of the fastest online engineering degrees are structured for adult learners or transfer students who already have some college credit. These programs may offer year-round courses, accelerated eight-week terms, or self-paced learning options to help you finish faster.

Fields like engineering technology and industrial engineering are especially common in accelerated formats. Depending on your background, you may be able to complete a bachelor's degree in two to three years.

Can I Earn an Engineering Degree Without Taking Proctored Exams?

Yes, it's possible to earn a degree from colleges without proctored exams, especially in online programs that emphasize flexibility. Instead of traditional proctored tests, these programs may use alternative assessments like open-book exams, timed quizzes, final projects, and research papers.

This format benefits students who struggle with test anxiety or lack access to private testing environments. Engineering programs that follow this model are often project-based and designed for adult learners. While you still need to demonstrate subject mastery, the assessment approach may better match your learning style. Always check the course structure before enrolling to ensure it meets your needs.

Do Test-Optional Colleges Still Offer Merit Scholarships?

Yes, many test-optional colleges continue to offer merit-based scholarships even if you don't submit standardized test scores. These scholarships may be awarded based on your GPA, course rigor, leadership experience, personal essays, or community involvement.

Some schools have test-optional scholarship review processes that mirror their admissions criteria. Others may ask for additional materials, like short answer questions or interviews, to determine eligibility. Always review each college's financial aid website carefully to understand what materials are required.

Can I Still Get Into an Honors Engineering Program Without Test Scores?

In many cases, yes, you can be admitted to an honors engineering program without submitting test scores. While some honors colleges still use standardized tests as part of their criteria, others focus on your high school GPA, course rigor, essays, and recommendations.

For students applying test-optional, it's especially important to show academic excellence in STEM subjects and a commitment to intellectual challenge. Some schools may ask for additional writing samples or conduct interviews for honors placement.

Explore Engineering Degrees

Whether you're applying with test scores or without, there are many quality engineering programs that fit a wide range of goals and learning styles. Explore ABET-accredited degrees, flexible online options, and test-optional schools featured on Learn.org to find the right path for your future in engineering.