9 Best Test-Optional Colleges in Missouri 2025

<p>Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT can add extra stress to an already complicated college application process. But many colleges in Missouri no longer require them, giving you the option to apply based on your academic performance, personal achievements, and community involvement. These <a href="https://learn.org/articles/test_optional_colleges.html">test-optional colleges</a> consider what you've accomplished in the classroom and beyond, not just how you perform on a single exam. </p> <p>The colleges listed below offer test-optional admissions and range from affordable public universities to selective private institutions. Continue reading to find a school that matches your educational goals. </p> <h2 id="section---WhatDoesTestOptionalMean">What Does Test Optional Mean?</h2> <p>A test-optional admissions policy means that submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required to apply. Instead, colleges evaluate you using other aspects of your profile, such as GPA, course rigor, personal essays, extracurricular participation, and letters of recommendation. This broader approach recognizes that a one-time exam may not reflect your full academic capabilities, skills, or potential. </p> <h2 id="section---Top10TestOptionalCollegesInMissouri">Top 10 Test-Optional Colleges in Missouri</h2> <p>As a Michigan student, you can choose from a wide range of <a href="https://learn.org/articles/online_colleges_no_sat_act_requirements.html">colleges that don't require SAT or ACT</a> scores. Many of these schools also support online students, with programs ranging from liberal arts and education to health sciences and business. </p> <h3 id="section---1.NorthwestMissouriStateUniversity">1. Northwest Missouri State University</h3> <p>Northwest Missouri State University offers a test-optional admissions policy for eligible applicants, though submitting ACT or SAT scores can enhance scholarship eligibility. Admission decisions are based on a holistic review of academic achievement (GPA, core curriculum, and class rank) and personal background. The university encourages applicants to present their strongest academic profile, with test scores optional but potentially beneficial for students with a GPA below the average. </p> <p>Known for its strong sense of community, Northwest Missouri State offers bachelor's and master's degrees in areas such as education, agriculture, business, health sciences, and more. For students balancing work or life commitments, the university provides numerous online and hybrid programs. Support services like virtual advising, tutoring, and career planning help online students stay connected to campus resources. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$459.85 per credit hour (in-state); $750.75 per credit hour (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> Higher Learning Commission (HLC) </p> <h3 id="section---2.SoutheastMissouriStateUniversity">2. Southeast Missouri State University</h3> <p>Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) officially adopted a test-optional admissions policy in 2024, allowing students to apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores, and still be considered for scholarships. Applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of at least 2.75 and completion of core coursework receive automatic admission and eligibility for many institutional awards. Students with GPAs between 2.5 and 2.74 may still apply, and including a minimum ACT score of 19 (or SAT equivalent) can strengthen their applications. SEMO also superscores test submissions, meaning they combine your best sections to maximize your score. </p> <p>Academically, Southeast Missouri State University provides more than 50 fully online undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, education, nursing, and information technology. The university also offers free online tutoring, virtual advising, and career services to support your path to graduation. Application is simple: No essay is required, and there is no fee. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$339 per credit hour </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---3.UniversityOfMissouriSt.Louis">3. University of Missouri-St. Louis</h3> <p>The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) implemented a test-optional policy in 2022, enabling applicants with a 3.0 core GPA to apply without scores. All applicants are reviewed holistically, with standardized admissions decisions made by committee, sometimes offering conditional admission when test scores are not submitted. UMSL encourages students to submit strong scores if they believe it enhances their chances for merit scholarships or selective programs, yet no one is disadvantaged for omitting them. </p> <p>UMSL offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, with strengths in social sciences, STEM, business, and education. Fully online bachelor's and master's degree programs are available to accommodate diverse learners. Remote students benefit from virtual advising, student services, and online career resources that align with the university's solid reputation for community engagement and student support. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$529 to $654 (in-state); $1,317 (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---4.MissouriUniversityOfScienceAndTechnology">4. Missouri University of Science and Technology</h3> <p>Missouri University of Science and Technology (Missouri S&amp;T) is adopting a test-optional review process for fall 2025 and 2026 applicants. Students applying without ACT or SAT must have their application evaluated holistically by considering GPA, essays, extracurricular involvement, and contributions to the campus community. While some honors scholarships may still require test scores, regular admission does not. This shift recognizes diverse strengths in academic and personal experiences. </p> <p>As Missouri's STEM-focused public university, Missouri S&amp;T offers rigorous programs in engineering, computing, and the sciences, plus select online graduate certificates and professional programs. The campus is recognized for hands-on learning, undergraduate research, and collaborations with leading industries. Even without test results, students benefit from academic rigor and community-driven campus life. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$14,328 (in-state); $33,516 (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---5.UniversityOfMissouriKansasCity">5. University of Missouri-Kansas City</h3> <p>The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) became permanently test-optional in 2020, allowing applicants to emphasize GPA, coursework difficulty, essays, and extracurricular activities over scores. Students are encouraged to submit SAT/ACT results if they support their profile, particularly for competitive programs or scholarships, though they are not required. Admissions officers review each application as a whole to assess strengths across multiple areas. </p> <p>UMKC offers more than 200 degree programs, from business and health sciences to engineering and arts. Many of these are available in fully online or hybrid formats tailored for adult learners, working professionals, and commuters. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$496 per credit hour (in-state); $1,157 per credit hour (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---6.UniversityOfMissouriColumbia">6. University of Missouri-Columbia</h3> <p>The University of Missouri-Columbia (Mizzou) offers a test-optional admissions pathway. Students applying without test scores must submit transcripts and a short essay. If students later decide their scores strengthen their application, Mizzou allows score submission post-application, which may also aid scholarship and Honors College consideration. </p> <p>With over 300 programs spanning agriculture, journalism, health sciences, and more, Mizzou is a flagship research university offering extensive online degrees, graduate programs, and certificates. Distance learners benefit from virtual labs and interactive lectures, bridging campus access via digital platforms. The test-optional policy removes exam stress while maintaining standards across Mizzou's comprehensive offerings. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$14,830 to $18,610 (in-state); $36,040 to $39,820 (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---7.TrumanStateUniversity">7. Truman State University</h3> <p>Truman State University is Missouri's premier public liberal arts university and offers test-optional admissions with strong academic expectations (the average incoming GPA is around 3.76), but submission of test scores is optional. Admissions staff place emphasis on transcripts, essays, and extracurriculars to assess academic preparedness and personal qualities. Students without SAT/ACT results are given equal consideration under this policy. </p> <p>Here, you can choose a degree in education, sciences, humanities, business, and communications, supported by small classes and close faculty mentorship. The university offers select online and hybrid courses to provide flexibility. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$9,878 (in-state); $36,040 to $18,947 (out-of-state) </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---8.SaintLouisUniversity">8. Saint Louis University</h3> <p>Saint Louis University (SLU), a private Jesuit institution located in the heart of St. Louis, offers a test-optional admission policy for all undergraduate applicants. Students are evaluated based on high school GPA, academic rigor, essays, recommendation letters, and extracurricular engagement. Submitting ACT or SAT scores is entirely optional, and applicants are encouraged to focus on other strengths within their application. </p> <p>SLU offers more than 90 undergraduate majors and over 80 graduate programs in fields such as business, nursing, public health, engineering, and social work &mdash; many of which are available in online or hybrid formats. The university also provides academic advising, career counseling, and tutoring services to support students throughout their academic journey. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$28,480 </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h3 id="section---9.DruryUniversity">9. Drury University</h3> <p>Drury University is a private liberal arts college located in Springfield, Missouri, and offers a test-optional admissions policy for incoming undergraduate students. Applicants are evaluated holistically using GPA, extracurricular involvement, recommendation letters, and personal essays. Standardized test scores may be submitted if a student believes they add strength to their application, but they are not required for admission or most scholarships. </p> <p>Drury offers a wide variety of majors in business, education, arts, health sciences, and behavioral sciences. Several programs include online or hybrid options to meet the needs of nontraditional students and working professionals. </p> <p><b>Estimated tuition cost: </b>$36,700 </p> <p><b>Accreditation:</b> HLC </p> <h2 id="section---HowWeRankSchools">How We Rank Schools</h2> <p>We selected institutions based on affordability, test-optional admissions policies, accreditation, and academic quality. Each school has met the following standards: </p> <ul><li><b>Accreditation:</b> All institutions are accredited by the HLC, verifying eligibility for federal aid and recognition. </li><li><b>Admission requirements:</b> We only included colleges with established test-optional policies and a transparent, holistic review process. </li></ul><p><b>Affordability:</b> We ranked the schools in this list based on tuition or cost after aid to help students compare value. </p> <h2 id="section---WhyDoCollegesUseTestOptionalAdmissions">Why Do Colleges Use Test-Optional Admissions?</h2> <p>Colleges adopt test-optional policies to address inequities in standardized testing. Students from under-resourced backgrounds often lack access to prep resources, which can negatively affect scores. By evaluating multiple aspects of a student's background (GPA, essays, activities, and recommendations) admissions decisions become more equitable and reflective of long-term effort and character. </p> <h2 id="section---HowDoesATestOptionalPolicyAffectCollegeAdmissions">How Does a Test-Optional Policy Affect College Admissions?</h2> <p>Test-optional policies shift evaluation toward consistent academic performance and holistic fit. Admissions committees consider transcripts, involvement, leadership, essays, and recommendations more heavily. While strong test scores can still help, omitting them won't penalize qualified students and may even benefit those who do not test well. </p> <h2 id="section---BenefitsOfApplyingToTestOptionalColleges">Benefits of Applying to Test-Optional Colleges</h2> <p>Applying test-optional gives you more control over how colleges view your academic abilities and potential. Instead of being defined by a single test score, you can present a fuller picture of who you are as a student and individual. This is especially important for students whose strengths are reflected in their coursework, personal experiences, and long-term achievements rather than standardized testing. </p> <p>Some of the main benefits include: </p> <ul><li>Showcasing consistent academic performance: Strong grades across several semesters carry more weight in a test-optional process. Colleges will focus on your transcript to see how well you've handled challenging classes over time. </li><li>Highlighting your personal story: Personal essays, interviews, and recommendations can play a bigger role in admissions decisions. This allows you to explain how your experiences, values, or background have shaped your goals. </li><li>Reducing stress and pressure: Many students have <a href="https://learn.org/articles/anxiety_in_college_students.html">test anxiety</a> that affects their ability to demonstrate their knowledge and skill in just one exam. Test-optional policies give you the chance to skip those scores without hurting your application. </li><li>Lowering costs: You can avoid spending money on test prep courses, books, and multiple exam registrations. This can be especially helpful for students who are managing other college application expenses. </li><li>Creating opportunities for more students: Test-optional admissions help level the playing field for applicants from underserved communities, first-generation college students, and those with limited access to test prep resources. </li><li>Making room for different strengths: Students who excel in creative fields, hands-on work, or community leadership can highlight those achievements instead of focusing on test results. </li></ul><h2 id="section---TipsForTestOptionalCollegeAdmissions">Tips for Test-Optional College Admissions</h2> <p>If you're applying to a test-optional college, it's important to make the most of every part of your application. Without test scores, other elements (like your transcript, essays, and activities) carry more weight. The admissions team will look for signs that you're motivated, consistent in your studies, and ready for college-level work. Use these tips to help you submit a well-rounded and competitive application: </p> <ul><li>Maintain strong grades throughout high school, especially in core subjects. </li><li>Enroll in honors, AP, IB, or dual-credit classes to show academic rigor. </li><li>Prepare for at least one standardized test, even if you don't end up submitting the score. </li><li>Write thoughtful, specific essays that explain your goals and highlight your experiences. </li><li>Choose a recommendation letter writer who knows you well and can speak to your strengths. </li><li>Join clubs, participate in community service, or take on leadership roles. </li><li>Include a resume if allowed. This is a good way to highlight part-time work, family responsibilities, or special projects. </li><li>If you faced academic challenges, use the essay to explain how you've grown or what you've learned. </li><li>Double-check that your application is complete and free of errors before submitting. </li><li>Reach out to the admissions office with questions. They can help clarify how test-optional policies work at their school. </li></ul><h2 id="section---FAQsAboutTestOptionalSchoolsInMissouri">FAQs About Test-Optional Schools in Missouri</h2> <p>Below are answers to common questions about test-optional colleges in Missouri to guide your application process. </p> <h3 id="section---DoTestOptionalSchoolsAcceptLowerGPAs">Do Test-Optional Schools Accept Lower GPAs?</h3> <p>Some <a href="https://learn.org/articles/colleges_that_accept_a_low_gpa.html">colleges that accept a low GPA</a> adopt holistic evaluations with a test-optional policy. Applicants with lower GPAs may boost their application with reflective essays, strong leadership, or upward academic trends. Some institutions may grant conditional enrollment to support student success. </p> <h3 id="section---CanIStillSubmitMySATOrACTScores">Can I Still Submit My SAT or ACT Scores?</h3> <p>If your scores fall within or above your target school's middle range, submitting them could enhance admissions or scholarship eligibility. If your results don't match your academic record, omitting them allows your transcripts and personal profile to speak for themselves without potentially undermining your candidacy. </p> <h3 id="section---WillSkippingTestScoresAffectMyScholarships">Will Skipping Test Scores Affect My Scholarships?</h3> <p>Federal and Missouri state aid is based on FAFSA and GPA, not test scores. However, some merit scholarships may consider SAT and ACT results. To maximize aid, investigate each institution's policy or reach out to admissions to understand how files are evaluated. </p> <h3 id="section---AreOnlineProgramsAlsoTestOptional">Are Online Programs Also Test-Optional?</h3> <p>Yes, most schools that offer test-optional admissions also extend this to online bachelor's, adult completion, and graduate certificate programs. This approach benefits working professionals, commuters, and distance learners. </p> <h3 id="section---HowDoIKnowIfTestOptionalIsRightForMe">How Do I Know If Test-Optional Is Right for Me?</h3> <p>Begin by comparing your test scores with published ranges for your colleges of interest. If your GPA and coursework strongly surpass your test results, test-optional is likely beneficial. But strong scores may enhance your profile, especially for selective programs. Academic advisors and admission counselors can provide tailored guidance. </p> <h2 id="section---ExploreDegreePrograms">Explore Degree Programs</h2> <p>Whether near campus or online, these schools offer paths that fit your goals and lifestyle. Explore in-person and online colleges featured on Learn.org to find the right degree program for your future.</p>